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Substance Use Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Counselor Job Summary: CASES is a New York City agency at the forefront of the intersection between behavioral health and involvement in the criminal justice system. Our mission is to ...

Substance Use Specialist Job Summary:  Are you a credentialed alcohol and substance use counselor?  Are you looking to make a difference in the lives of people impacted by substance use and the ...

Substance Use Counselor Job Summary: CASES is a New York City agency at the forefront of the intersection between behavioral health and involvement in the criminal justice system. Our mission is to ...

Substance Use Counselor

Queens, NY · On-site

$55K - $78K/yr

Housing Works is seeking an experienced Substance Use Counselor (CASAC and/or LMSW) to provide on-site, trauma-informed, and harm-reduction-oriented services to justice-involved individuals ...

Substance Use Specialist Job Summary:  Are you a credentialed alcohol and substance use counselor?  Are you looking to make a difference in the lives of people impacted by substance use and the ...

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Substance Use information

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$33K

$59K

$84.5K

How much do substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use in the United States is $59,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substance Use Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Use Counselor, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by state licensure or certification in addiction counseling. Familiarity with treatment planning software, electronic health records (EHRs), and evidence-based intervention techniques is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities are essential for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding individuals through treatment, ensuring ethical care, and fostering positive outcomes in challenging environments.

What is a substance use counselor?

A substance use counselor is a professional who helps individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They provide support through assessment, treatment planning, counseling sessions, and recovery strategies. Substance use counselors may work in various settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices, and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Their goal is to guide clients toward recovery and help them develop healthier coping mechanisms.

What is the difference between Substance Use vs Substance Use Counselor?

AspectSubstance UseSubstance Use Counselor
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certificationCertification required (e.g., CADC, CSAC)
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, hospitals, outreach programsRehabilitation centers, clinics, private practice
Industry UsageRefers to the issue or topic of substance useRefers to professionals providing treatment and support

Substance Use describes the issue or behavior related to the consumption of substances, while a Substance Use Counselor is a trained professional who provides treatment and support for individuals struggling with substance use problems. The counselor's role involves assessment, counseling, and developing recovery plans, whereas Substance Use refers to the broader topic or problem itself.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in substance use counseling, and how can they be effectively managed?

Substance use counselors often encounter challenges such as managing client relapse, navigating complex co-occurring mental health disorders, and maintaining clear professional boundaries. Building strong therapeutic alliances, participating in regular supervision, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can help address these difficulties. Ongoing training in trauma-informed care and self-care strategies are also essential for sustaining effectiveness and personal well-being in this emotionally demanding field.
More about Substance Use jobs
What cities are hiring for Substance Use jobs? Cities with the most Substance Use job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Use jobs? The most popular types of Substance Use jobs are:
What states have the most Substance Use jobs? States with the most job openings for Substance Use jobs include:
Substance Use Counselor (Substance Use Outpatient Program)

Substance Use Counselor (Substance Use Outpatient Program)

Highland Rivers Behavioral Health

Calhoun, GA • On-site

$19.75 - $26.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Highland Rivers Behavioral Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
There is a place for you at Highland Rivers Behavioral Health!
Highland Rivers provides treatment and recovery services to individuals impacted by mental illness; substance use disorders and intellectual developmental disabilities.
Are you ready to make a Difference?
Program Summary: Highland Rivers Behavioral Health (HRBH) substance use programs promote recovery, self-sufficiency and help individuals learn how to manage life issues and day-to-day living without the use of mood or mind-altering substances or drugs. HRBH substance use services lead to a path of recovery by offering one-to-one, group, and family counseling. HRBH areas of expertise include best practice interventions on abstinence from illicit chemical use to address substance use and depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), poor impulse control, and negative patterns of thought and behavior that are counterproductive to living a healthy and fulfilled life.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Conduct groups, individual counseling and psychoeducation as delineated via program licensure by Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH)/Health Facility Regulation (HFR).
  • Follow established guidelines in the Program Plan.
  • Complete Service Plan Development's, and all other supporting assessments, including UDS, & documentation for individuals.
  • Maintains a caseload of individuals ensuring compliance with policies and procedures re: documentation and services are being provided per and individual's treatment plan recommendations.
  • Follow-up calls with referrals and participation in Treatment/consultation/clinical team meetings.
  • Complete monthly Treatment Plan reviews and discharge/transition persons served, as clinically indicated.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Benefits:
  • Health Insurance through the State Health Benefit Plan of GA
  • Flexible Benefits such as dental, vision, life, critical illness, etc.
  • Retirement Plan with employer matching
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off with increase of accruals based on years of service
  • 10 paid holidays
  • 1 personal day
  • Qualifying employer for Public Student Loan Forgiveness
  • NHSC loan forgiveness in qualifying counties.
  • Clinical supervision for candidates on a licensure track.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelors Degree in Helping Field
  • CACI, CADCI, CACII, CADCII, MAC and/or other associate or licensed staff (APC/LPC/AMFT/LMFT/LMSW/LCSW, etc.)
  • At least 1 year experience working in Mental Health or substance use disorder field
  • Bilingual abilities a plus