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

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Substance Use Specialist

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$19.24/hr

Our Baton Rouge ACT department is looking for an Substance Use Specialist to provide substance use ... Participates as part of a multidisciplinary team providing substance abuse counseling, support, and ...

State of Louisiana

Professional Counselor 4

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.9K - $7.1K/mo

... or substance use) treatment. * Plans, prioritizes, and manages clinical treatment services for ... Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) * Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) * None of the ...

State of Louisiana

Professional Counselor 4

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.9K - $7.1K/mo

... substance use) treatment. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a current Louisiana license to practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) ...

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 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?

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 Baton Rouge, LA?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

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 jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,355 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Substance Use Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

Baton Rouge Comprehensive Treatment Center
See more jobs at Baton Rouge Comprehensive Treatment Centerexternal

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Overview

Outpatient MAT Opioid Treatment Program

Seeking: Substance Use Counselor

Full Time Hours: Monday - Friday 5:15 AM - 1:30 PM

Our Benefits: 

  • Semi-Annual Bonus Program
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Competitive 401(k) plan
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Employer-paid clinical supervision (free to employees)
  • Free and unlimited access to 500+ accredited Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering continued support to employee lifestyle and well-being
  • Early morning hours offering a great work/life balance
  • Opportunity for growth that is second to none in the industry

Our Team:

Baton Rouge Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC), located in Baton Rouge, LA, is part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers, the leading provider of medication-assisted treatment in the nation. Our counseling team provides compassionate, high-quality counseling and therapy to patients that are seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder.

Your Job as a Substance Use Counselor:

The Substance Use Counselor is instrumental in our patient's treatment and recovery from opioid use disorder. Substance Use Counselors provide high quality, compassionate care through various mediums which include both individual and group counseling sessions.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Provide high quality, compassionate guidance in both individual and group counseling sessions.
  • Plan, oversee, facilitate and document patient's recovery.
  • Co-facilitate assigned group or family sessions as needed.
  • Ensure all documentation regarding patient care, treatment, and incidents is completed timely and in a clear, concise manner.
  • Prepare individual treatment plans for each assigned patient.
  • Initial assessments as well as follow up assessments.
  • Evaluate patient needs and determine if referrals to other programs or facilities are needed.
  • May plan for aftercare for assigned patients.
  • Provide crisis intervention to patients, as needed.
  • Provide case management duties for patients, ensuring individualized quality care as needed.
  • Act as a liaison between referral sources and patients, as needed.

Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic site eligibility. Check your eligibility here: HRSA Eligibility

Qualifications

Required Education, Skills, and Qualifications: 

  • Prefer Bachelor's or Master's degree in social or health services field; 
  • Degree must be from an accredited college or university. 

  • Previous experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, such as outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities.

  • Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.

  • Experience conducting individual and group counseling sessions focused on substance use recovery.

  • Knowledge of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and relapse prevention techniques.

  • Documentation experience, including maintaining clinical notes, treatment plans, and progress updates in accordance with state and federal guidelines.

  • Familiarity with state regulatory standards (e.g., 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, Joint Commission standards).

  • Experience collaborating in a multidisciplinary team with medical staff, case managers, and peer support specialists.

Preferred Licenses/Certifications:  

  • Minimum of one of the following: LMHP (LMSW, LCSW, PLPC, LPC, LMFT, LAC), or CAC, CIT, RAC 

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

#LI-CTC

#LI-JS2

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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