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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Counselor

Austin, TX

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Sunday- Thursday Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged! Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year ** Sunday- Thursday **Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged!** Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged! Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year **Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged!** Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I/ LPC / LPC-A / LMSW / LMFT / LMFT-A ) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged! Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Austin, TX salary details

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Austin, TX is $25.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance use counselor?

A Substance Use Counselor is a mental health professional who helps individuals struggling with drug, alcohol, or other substance dependencies. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, provide counseling, and support clients through recovery. Substance Use Counselors may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or community organizations, often collaborating with other healthcare professionals. Their goal is to help clients understand their addiction, develop coping strategies, and maintain long-term sobriety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance use counselor?

To thrive as a Substance Use Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or social work—often with a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, assessment tools, and evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT or motivational interviewing is common. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with clients. These competencies are essential for providing effective support, fostering recovery, and navigating the complexities of addiction treatment.

What are some common challenges substance use counselors face when working with clients, and how are these typically addressed within the team?

Substance Use Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and co-occurring mental health disorders. These issues are typically addressed through regular team meetings, case consultations, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals like social workers and psychiatrists. Counselors also receive ongoing training and supervision to stay updated on best practices and to ensure they have the support needed to manage complex cases. This team-based approach helps provide comprehensive care and promotes the counselor's professional growth.

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

AspectSubstance Use CounselorAddiction Therapist
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CADC, CAC)Licensed or certified in addiction counseling
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinicsRehab facilities, mental health clinics
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and community programsOften used interchangeably with Substance Use Counselor

Both roles focus on helping individuals overcome substance abuse, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology preference, with 'Addiction Therapist' sometimes implying a broader scope of mental health treatment. However, in practice, these titles are often used interchangeably in the industry.

Is it worth becoming a substance use counselor?

A substance use counselor helps individuals recover from addiction by providing therapy, support, and education. The role often requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and empathy, with job growth expected due to increasing awareness of substance abuse issues. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in mental health and community service.

What degree is best for a substance use counselor?

A substance use counselor typically benefits from a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many states also require certification or licensure, which may involve completing a master's degree and supervised clinical hours. Relevant skills include counseling techniques and knowledge of addiction treatment methods.

What are popular job titles related to Substance Use Counselor jobs in Austin, TX?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,513 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)


Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year


Sunday- Thursday


Join Our Team at Recovery Unplugged!


Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental health treatment, combining evidence-based clinical care with the healing power of music. Our mission is to help individuals overcome substance use and mental health challenges while empowering them to build healthier, more fulfilling lives.


We are seeking a compassionate and motivated Substance Use Counselor (LCDC or LCDC-I) to join our clinical team. This position plays a key role in delivering quality therapeutic services and supporting clients throughout their treatment and recovery journey.


Key Responsibilities


Conduct individual, group, and family counseling sessions in accordance with clinical and regulatory standards.

Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans in collaboration with the multidisciplinary treatment team.

Facilitate therapeutic groups and psychoeducational programming.

Monitor client progress and adjust treatment interventions as appropriate.

Coordinate discharge planning and communicate effectively with referral sources, families, and community providers.

Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant clinical documentation.

Participate in treatment team meetings and case consultations.

Support clients through all phases of treatment while promoting engagement, accountability, and recovery.

Adhere to all company policies, ethical standards, and applicable licensing requirements.



Why Recovery Unplugged?


Competitive compensation based on experience and credentials.

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

Health Savings Account (HSA).

Company-paid Life Insurance.

401(k) and Company Match.

Paid Time Off.

Professional Development and Growth Opportunities.

Supportive, mission-driven team environment.


If you are passionate about helping individuals achieve lasting recovery and want to be part of an innovative organization transforming behavioral healthcare, we encourage you to apply today.


Job Type: Full-Time


Requirements

Qualifications

Active LCDC or LCDC-I license required.

Experience working in substance use disorder, behavioral health, mental health, or related treatment settings preferred.

Strong clinical assessment, counseling, and communication skills.

Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.

Excellent organizational and documentation skills.

Commitment to providing compassionate, client-centered care.

Familiarity with electronic medical records (EMR) systems preferred.