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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Dunedin, FL (NOW HIRING)

Peer Support Manager

Saint Petersburg, FL

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Peer Support Manager will be responsible for ensuring a Substance Use Disorder Bridge pathway ... work, counseling, human services, or a related field preferred Licensure/Certification • ...

Peer Support Manager

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

The Peer Support Manager will be responsible for ensuring a Substance Use Disorder Bridge pathway ... work, counseling, human services, or a related field preferred Licensure/Certification • ...

Licensed Psychologist

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

$84K - $98K/yr

Responsibilities • Provides mental health and/or substance use counseling services according to APA ethical standards and in accordance with policies and procedures • Reviews and responds to ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Dunedin, FL salary details

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Dunedin, FL is $22.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

Is becoming a substance abuse counselor worth it?

A substance use counselor helps individuals recover from addiction by providing therapy, support, and education. The role often requires certification, strong communication skills, and emotional resilience, with job growth expected due to increasing awareness of substance abuse issues. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others and making a positive impact on community health.

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors are often those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or who work in specialized settings such as private practice or healthcare facilities. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, with some senior or specialized roles earning higher compensation depending on location and employer.

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 Dunedin, FL are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs? Cities near Dunedin, FL with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Dunedin, FL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,059 per year, or $22.6 per hour.
Substance Use Disorder Technician (32hrs/week)

Substance Use Disorder Technician (32hrs/week)

Operation Par Inc.

Clearwater, FL • On-site

$16.97 - $17.49/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION:

Operation PAR, Inc. is a non-profit organization offering the full continuum of services for individuals with substance use and/or mental health disorders. PAR has been providing comprehensive behavioral health treatment in west Florida since 1970 through advocacy, education, clinical service, and research. PAR’s Medication Assisted Patient Services (MAPS) Program provides quality out-patient opioid maintenance therapy to individuals suffering from the effects of Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).


BENEFITS (FULL-TIME ONLY):

  • 9 paid holidays per year
  • 3 weeks of PTO per year (on top of holidays). PTO increases to 4 weeks/year after 2 years of employment, and then to 5 weeks/year after 5 years of employment.
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
  • 401k matching
  • Tuition reimbursement


GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

Entry level client serving position for individuals with limited counseling skills and/or experience. SUD Techs are responsible for the office duties outlined but not limited to documentation, processing new patient admissions, answering phones and faxes, verifying insurance/grant eligibility and checking in patients. May be responsible for facilitating food and drink sales, reviewing financial documents with patients, accepting payments and bank deposits, and administering drug screens.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma / GED required
  • Administrative/office assistant experience preferred


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • Ability to manage time and resources
  • Ability to speak coherently and convey concepts
  • Computer proficiency required


ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:

  • Ability to write accurately and legibly
  • Ability to sit at a desk and view a display screen for extended periods of time
  • Ability to bend, stoop and reach
  • Ability to sit in meetings for extended periods of time
  • Ability to move throughout program facilities both indoors and outdoors
  • Ability to lift and carry 10 pounds
  • Good hearing and vision

Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.


SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Valid Driver's License or state ID card
  • Must pass drug screen (https://info.flclearinghouse.com) and level II background check
  • Must maintain current training as required by Operation PAR, Inc. policies


ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

  • Out-patient substance use disorder treatment setting
  • Fast Paced
  • Exposure to individuals who may be experiencing emotional distress or agitation
  • Possible exposure to clients with communicable diseases

Veterans encouraged to apply. Operation PAR Inc is a drug-free workplace that adheres to federal regulations as it pertains to marijuana use.

EOE/ADA/VETERANS/DFWP