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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Stars Behavioral Health Group

Dietary Cook

Merced, CA

$15 - $19.25/hr

Rehabilitation/recoveryservices, including substance use rehabilitation services * Length of Stay: 30 day stay * Skills & Services: Pre-vocational or vocational counseling and medication evaluation ...

Stars Behavioral Health Group

Dietary Cook

Merced, CA · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Rehabilitation/recovery services, including substance use rehabilitation services * Length of Stay: 30 day stay * Skills & Services: Pre-vocational or vocational counseling and medication evaluation ...

Stars Behavioral Health Group

Medical Records Clerk

Merced, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Rehabilitation/recovery services, including substance use rehabilitation services * Length of Stay: 30 day stay * Skills & Services: Pre-vocational or vocational counseling and medication evaluation ...

Mariposa County

Extra Help Registered Nurse

Mariposa, CA

$44 - $53.48/hr

... substance abuse and dependence, infectious disease, maternal and child health, pediatric health ... Must be able to use a telephone to communicate verbally and a keyboard to communicate through ...

CVS Health

CA Dist Support Pharmacist FT

Atwater, CA · On-site

$58.75 - $70.50/hr

... counseling, and immunizing practices * Traveling the district to fill pharmacist shifts as ... Use and understand verbal and written communication to interact with patients and colleagues

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Merced, CA salary details

$14

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Merced, CA is $26.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $30.48 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 Merced, CA?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Merced, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Substance Use Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,947 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Nurse Practitioner / Physician Assistant

Aegis Treatment Centers

Merced, CA

$108K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Full-Time Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant | Merced, CA

Monday - Thursday | 5:00a - 1:30p

We offer competitive salaries, full benefits package, Paid Time Off, and opportunities for professional growth.

Pinnacle / Aegis Treatment Centers is a nationally recognized leader in addiction treatment services that has been featured in publications such as: LA Times, NBC Today, US News, Health Digest, Medscape, and Huffington Post. Through our mission to remove all barriers to recovery and transform individuals, families, and communities with treatment that works we are able to touch the lives of more than 35,000 patients daily. Our teammates believe we are creating a better world where lives and communities are made whole again through comprehensive treatment.

As a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant, you will work in coordination with the doctor to monitor and dispense medication-assisted therapy to patients. You will also consult with the patient’s therapist and other providers to ensure the treatment plan is adapted accordingly.

Benefits:

  • 18 days PTO (Paid Time Off)
  • 401k with company match
  • Company sponsored ongoing training and certification opportunities.
  • Full comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, short term disability, long term disability and accident insurance.
  • Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery Loan Repayment Program (STAR LRP)

Pay Rate

$108,160 - $141,440 annually

Requirements:

  • Must be a Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant licensed in accordance with the laws in the State of employment
  • Must maintain continuing education credits as required by the appropriate licensing board
  • Experience or knowledge in the field of drug abuse recommended
  • Must be CPR, First Aid, and BLS certified

Responsibilities:

  • Perform those parts of client physicals as directed by the Physician.
  • Supervise nursing staff and dispensing operations.
  • Supervise medication storage and inventory processes and procedures.
  • Maintain up-to-date and accurate data in patient computer files.
  • Coordinate patient care with the PCP (Primary Care Physician) or other physician who may be prescribing opiates or other psycho-active medication.
  • Consult with counselors and supervisors as related to individual patient medical/medication needs at least one time monthly.
  • Conduct H&Ps at intake and annually thereafter.
  • Participate in case planning and consultation with the lead counselor, the facility/executive director, the project director, and the medical director as needed.
  • Weekend coverage as needed at the facility. 

Join our team. Join our mission.