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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 2

Decatur, IL · On-site

$52K/yr

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 2 Job Requisition ID: JR0000001914 Number of Openings: 1 Shift: Any ... Conduct substance use assessments utilizing clinical interviews and evidence-based assessment ...

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Decatur, IL is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.77 and $27.98 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 Decatur, IL?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Substance Use Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Decatur, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,387 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Substance Use Counselor

Heritage Behavioral Health Center

Decatur, IL • On-site

$64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description


Counselor – Substance Use

Salary: Range based on education, experience, and licensure or certification   

  • Bachelor’s Degree: $25.00/hour + every other Friday off
  • Bachelor’s Degree + CADC: $27.00/hour + every other Friday off
  • Master’s Degree: $60,000/annually + every other Friday off
  • Master’s Degree + LPC, LSW, or CADC: $64,000/annually + every other Friday off

Schedule: Full-Time | Every other Friday off (paid wellness day)

Looking for a career where your work truly matters? Heritage Behavioral Health Center is hiring passionate professionals!

About Heritage Behavioral Health Center  

We are a mission-driven Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic located in Decatur, Illinois, and Clinton, Illinois, who is dedicated to improving mental health and substance use care to individuals in a multi-county area.  We recognize that all individuals at our organization have an impact on client care – regardless of the position they hold.   

Why You’ll Love Working Here: 

  • Collaborative mission-driven work environment
  • Every other Friday off – paid wellness days 
  • Competitive salaries aligned with state and national benchmarks 
  • Loan forgiveness eligibility through NHSC

At Heritage, we believe in taking care of our staff’s needs so that they can concentrate on taking care of the needs of the individuals we serve.  Our staff are our greatest asset, and we treat them as such!   

Your Role:

Substance Use Counselor – Heritage Behavioral Health Center 

Substance Use Counselor – Heritage Behavioral Health Center  

As a Substance Use Counselor, you will play a vital role in supporting adults with substance use and/or co-occurring mental health disorders. You will provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals on their recovery journey. This position involves conducting comprehensive assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering counseling services aligned with ASAM criteria and harm reduction principles. You will work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to ensure integrated, person-centered care.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Conduct substance use and mental health assessments using ASAM Criteria and IM-CANS.
  • Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings and client goals.
  • Provide ASAM Level 1 (Outpatient) and Level 2 (Intensive Outpatient) services, including individual and group counseling.
  • Utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI) and other evidence-based practices to engage and support clients.
  • Incorporate harm reduction strategies and support Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) as part of treatment.
  • Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic groups focused on recovery, relapse prevention, and coping skills.
  • Collaborate with internal and external providers to coordinate care and ensure continuity of services.
  • Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with agency, state, and federal standards.
  • Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing professional development.

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

 

Knowledge:

  • ASAM Criteria and levels of care for substance use treatment.
  • Principles of harm reduction, recovery-oriented care, and integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders.
  • Evidence-based counseling approaches, including Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
  • Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) and its role in substance use treatment.
  • State and federal regulations related to behavioral health and substance use services.

 

Skills:

  • Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills using ASAM and IM-CANS tools.
  • Ability to engage clients in a nonjudgmental, culturally competent manner.
  • Proficient in facilitating individual and group counseling sessions.
  • Effective communication and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Strong organizational and documentation skills using electronic health records.

 

Abilities:

  • Build therapeutic relationships that foster trust and recovery.
  • Adapt interventions to meet diverse client needs and stages of change.
  • Manage crisis situations calmly and effectively.
  • Maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards.
  • Commit to ongoing learning and application of best practices in substance use treatment.

 

Qualifications 

  • Bachelor’s degree in human service field + ability to obtain certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) within two years of employment 
  • Graduate degree in counseling, clinical psychology, social work, or other human service fields + ability to obtain certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), LPC, or LSW, within two years of employment
  • Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), LPC, or LSW required within 24 months of employment
  • Minimum of 21 years of age 
  • A valid driver’s license, reliable means of transportation, and proof of automobile insurance.

Heritage also offers the following with this position: 

  • Generous Time Off: Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave 
  • Wellness Benefits: Every other Friday off paid, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and fitness reimbursement 
  • Insurance:    Health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts (healthcare, dependent care), and additional life insurance.    Health insurance includes substantial agency contributions toward the cost.
  • Retirement: 401k and Roth
  • Professional Growth:    Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities 
  • Loan Forgiveness:    Eligible through the National Health Service Corp 

Ready to make a difference?  Apply today and join a team that cares about your well-being as much as the individuals we serve!


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