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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Clinical Instructor

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Experience providing therapy, clinical case management, substance use counseling, intervention and referral services to culturally diverse populations. * Strong engagement and rapport-building ...

Hope Services LLC

Associate Professional

NC · On-site

Position intended for non-licensed mental health counselors. * Bilingual candidates are encouraged ... health/substance use experience. * Bachelor's degree in a human services field with less than 2 ...

Hope Services LLC

Associate Professional

Smithfield, NC · On-site

Position intended for non-licensed mental health counselors. * Bilingual candidates are encouraged ... health/substance use experience. * Bachelor's degree in a human services field with less than 2 ...

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All JobsSubstance Use Counselor JobsSubstance Use Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Substance Use Counselor information

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Raleigh, NC is $24.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.82 and $28.03 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 Raleigh, NC?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Substance Use Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,499 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Wake County Detention Center Counselor

SouthLight Healthcare

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Wake County Detention Center Counselor
Join a supportive team who values Compassion, Excellence, Collaboration, Inclusion, Hope & Authenticity!
This position is primarily responsible for counseling, maintaining an active case load and ensuring that all required documentation is completed. Maintaining a productivity level of minimum of 60% traditionally billable hours of hours worked, providing assessment, and treatment to include case management for participants enrolled in the OTP program.
Schedule
Full-time days.
Pay
$26.44/hr+ (~$55,000 annual equivalent), based on credentials.
Benefits
Being a part of a non-profit behavioral health organization has some unique benefits, along with our incredible health insurance options. Working here at SouthLight, you will be able to make a difference in people's lives every day, and know that you are a part of inspiring positive change in your community.
  • You will be eligible for medical benefits the first of the month following your first 30 days.
  • We have options for a standard plan, as well as an HSA with a $300 initial contribution and up to a $25 per paycheck match.
  • You would receive 10 paid holidays as well as PTO hours which would accrue at a rate of 10 hours per month.
  • After 6 months you would be eligible to enroll in our 401(k) plan which has a 4% match.
  • We also provide company paid life insurance, short- and long-term disability, in house and paid training opportunities, and paid credentialing.
  • SouthLight is also an approved employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).
  • We are excited to offer an additional benefit of Clinical Supervision Reimbursement. We will provide a monthly reimbursement of up to $200 to each full-time, associate level clinician electing this benefit for no more than 2 years, or until licensure is completed, whichever is first. Licensures eligible to receive this benefit include LCSWA, LCMHCA, LMFTA, LPA, LCASA, and CADC

Job Responsibilities of a Wake County Detention Center Counselor
  • Serve as primary clinician for an OTP caseload that is specific to residents within and recently released from Wake County Detention Center to provide ongoing assessment, treatment, case management, and care coordination to individuals on caseload to include individual, group or family counseling for each participant
  • Serve as the primary clinician to complete screening and intakes into Opioid Treatment Program services for individuals incarcerated at Wake County Detention Center who are either already prescribed MAT/MOUD or are interested in starting MAT/MOUD while incarcerated.
  • Work in conjunction with WCDC case manager, WCDC Peer Bridger, and WCDC nursing staff to assist participants in continuing SouthLight OTP or any other MAT/MOUD services by making referrals and assisting with scheduling intake appointments following release from WCDC.
  • Ensure timely tracking, upkeep, and reporting of key data points related providing OTP services within WCDC
  • Provide program orientation for participants at WCDC
  • Provide thorough continual assessment of participant's needs based on their clinical presentation and social determinant needs
  • Crisis management / on-call crisis rotation,
  • Working collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals within the organization including medical staff, peer support specialists, case managers nurses etc
  • Referrals to supportive services including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and legal counseling
    • Vocational training and placement
    • Internal and external case management and care coordination
  • Leverage Eleos AI, an innovative clinical documentation tool that reduces note-writing time so you can spend more time focusing on participant care.

Qualifications of a Wake County Detention Center CounselorEducation and Experience
  • Min 1 year of experience with the Mental Health/Substance Use population
  • Experience in an Opioid Treatment Program as a plus
  • LCAS/LCAS-A required within 90 days of hire. Full licensure preferred.
  • Dual licensure with LCMHC/LCMHC-A, LCSW/LCSW-A, LMFT/LMFT-A preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
  • Microsoft Office Suite, ability to navigate multiple healthcare data bases
  • Ability to accurately diagnose mental health and substance use disorders
  • Ability to work independently and with a team
  • Electronic Medical Health Record experience (EHR)
  • 12 Core Functions
  • Knowledge of Medication Assisted Treatment preferred
  • Knowledge of community resources
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational and time management
  • Ability to develop positive and trusting relationships with diverse individuals including individuals served, community stakeholders, payors etc.
  • Ability to have difficult conversations in stressful settings
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast paced environment
  • Ability to understand various policies that govern OTP program
  • Excellent ability to conceptualize cases, problem solve and ask questions
  • Ability to give and receive feedback
  • Inter and intrapersonal skills
  • Demonstrate and understanding of working with marginalized populations and the systemic impact on mental health
  • Participate in Clinical Case Supervision and Case Review/Treatment Team meetings as well as OTP Group Supervision with contracted Clinical Supervisor.

About Us
Tap into your passion at SouthLight. For more than 55 years, SouthLight Healthcare has been a trusted leader in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health and substance use treatment across Central North Carolina. As a nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to improving lives by expanding access to high-quality care, supporting recovery, and helping individuals build healthier, more hopeful futures. Each year, our team serves thousands of people through outpatient, community-based, and innovative treatment programs designed to meet people where they are.
At SouthLight, our people are the heart of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture where compassion, excellence, authenticity, hope, and innovation guide our work every day. Whether you're providing direct patient care or supporting our mission behind the scenes, you'll join a team committed to making a meaningful impact while investing in your professional growth. If you're passionate about serving others and want to be part of an organization transforming behavioral healthcare in our communities, we'd love to have you on our team.
We agree not to discriminate against any employee or job applicant because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex. Employment offers are contingent upon a satisfactory pre-employment drug screen. Professional references will be checked and criminal, abuse, driving, and fraud background reports will be obtained. Unsatisfactory results of any of these reports may result in SouthLight withdrawing the offer.

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