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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

YWCA Calgary

Outreach Clinical Counsellor

Calgary, AB · Hybrid

The Outreach Clinical Counsellor will use evidenced-based modalities to deliver trauma-informed ... Strong understanding of the intersection of family violence, mental health, substance abuse ...

All JobsSubstance Use Counselor JobsSubstance Use Counselor Jobs in Calgary, AB

Substance Use Counselor information

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.

What do you need to be a substance use counselor?

To become a substance use counselor, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree or higher in fields like psychology, social work, or counseling, along with specialized training in addiction treatment. Certification or licensure, such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), is often required or preferred. Strong communication skills, empathy, and knowledge of addiction recovery are essential for success in this role.

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 helping others, though it may involve emotional challenges and variable work hours.

What are popular job titles related to Substance Use Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB are:

What cities near Calgary, AB are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Calgary, AB with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Substance Use Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Calgary, AB as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Substance Abuse Counselor

destinationone Consulting

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

destinationone Consulting specializes in recruitment across diverse sectors, including Healthcare, Health Tech, Government, Municipalities, Non-Profits, Legal, Public Accounting, Food and more. We are proactively building a data bank for opportunities in these fields. By applying, you ensure our recruiters can quickly match you with suitable roles when they arise.

Location: Various locations across Alberta The Substance Abuse Counselor specializes in treating individuals with addiction and substance use disorders. This role focuses on helping clients achieve recovery through counseling and support. Key Responsibilities: Assess clients' substance use history and related issues.

Develop and implement individualized treatment plans. Conduct individual and group counseling sessions. Monitor clients' progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Facilitate educational workshops on addiction prevention. Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Counseling, Social Work, or a related field; certification in substance abuse counseling preferred. Experience in addiction treatment or recovery settings.

Strong communication and motivational interviewing skills. Disclaimer: We're proactively building a databank for opportunities in Healthcare, Health Tech, Government, Non-Profits, Legal, and more. By applying, you ensure our recruiters can quickly match you with suitable roles when they arise.

We value Integrity, Transparency, and Innovation, so we want you to know these are not active jobs. Join our network today, and we'll promptly connect you with the right opportunities when they come up. Let us help you find your next career move.

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