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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$12

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.24 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, and why are they important?

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.

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:
Substance Use Counselor - Baton Rouge Recovery Counselor

Substance Use Counselor - Baton Rouge Recovery Counselor

Baton Rouge General

Baton Rouge, LA

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Baton Rouge General rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

697th of 1,020 rated hospitals


Job description

Empower healing and transformation - be the difference in someone's recovery journey.


What We're Looking For:
  • Compassionate and empathetic professionals dedicated to substance abuse recovery

  • Minimum 24 months of experience working with clients with addictive disorders or specialized training

  • Bachelor's degree in human services or related field preferred

  • Active LMHP license in the state of Louisiana (LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, or LRC), OR

    • PLPC, LMSW, RAC, or CAC under the supervision of an LMHP

    • CITs registered with ADRA and currently under ADRA-registered certified clinical supervision

  • Strong assessment, documentation, and group facilitation skills

  • Team-oriented mindset with a commitment to client advocacy and continuous care

  • Must be able to manage a caseload of 10-12 residents or 20 IOP clients


Why You'll Love Working With Us:

At Baton Rouge General our patients aren't the only people we take care of; we take care of our team too. We are proud to offer our employees the benefits and resources they need to be their best selves at work and at home.

  • A comprehensive benefits program for you and your family

  • Professional development and support

  • Various employee perks including generous paid time off, flexible positions, and our Baton Rouge General Fit! program

  • We are a nationally and locally recognized leader in quality and ranked one of the best healthcare employers in the state

Check out our employee perks here!


What You Will Do:

Provide evidence-based counseling and support to individuals undergoing treatment for substance abuse within residential or Intensive Outpatient Programs.

  • Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments and document findings within mandated timeframes

  • Facilitate individual, family, and group therapy sessions as ordered

  • Serve as primary counselor for assigned caseload

  • Monitor and adjust treatment plans based on patient progress

  • Participate in interdisciplinary care planning and discharge preparation

  • Identify and address risks such as abuse, neglect, suicidal/homicidal ideation

  • Provide direct care and recovery support aligned with core addiction counseling competencies

  • Supervise unlicensed or inexperienced professionals, if licensed

  • Collaborate with community resources to support continued care and successful discharge


What Sets BRG Apart:

At Baton Rouge General, we are a community of compassionate, caring individuals who set the bar when it comes to healthcare excellence. Our mission is to preserve and restore health, one person at a time. From clinical to non-clinical - what you do here matters.

With over 600 licensed beds between three campuses, Baton Rouge General offers the full spectrum of care from delivering newborns to providing end of life support through hospice. With clinics located throughout Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas, our physician group provides patients with comprehensive care and a full suite of specialties, including internal and family medicine and specialty care.

Ready to be part of a team that values your skills and dedication? Apply now and take the next step in your career with us.


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