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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Counselor

Manassas, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $30/hr

As a Substance Use Counselor, you will play a crucial role in assisting clients in overcoming addiction and achieving long-term recovery. You will conduct assessments, develop personalized treatment ...

Substance Use Counselor

Washington, DC · On-site

$28.13 - $29.13/hr

Description Position at MedMark Treatment Centers Compassionate Substance Use Disorder Counselor Position Overview: License Substance Use Disorder Professional/Intern will be in charge with assisting ...

Substance Use Counselor

Washington, DC · On-site

$25.25 - $34/hr

Compassionate Substance Abuse Counselor! Make a Difference in the Lives of Those Battling Addiction Competitive Pay Excellent Benefits Career Growth Opportunities Position Overview: Are you ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

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$37

How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Reston, VA is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.26 and $30.00 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, 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.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 15% Full Time, 80% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,116 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Substance Use Counselor

SELLATI & COMPANY, INC.

Manassas, VA • On-site

$22.25 - $30/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Summary: PAID CLINICAL SUPERVISION


We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Substance Use Counselor to provide counseling and support to individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. As a Substance Use Counselor, you will play a crucial role in assisting clients in overcoming addiction and achieving long-term recovery. You will conduct assessments, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide individual and group counseling sessions.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
- Some experience working in substance abuse counseling or a related field
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Empathy, patience, and the ability to establish rapport and build trusting relationships
Responsibilities:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine clients' substance abuse history, mental health status, and treatment needs
- Collaborate with clients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals and needs
- Provide individual counseling sessions to help clients address underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse
- Facilitate group counseling sessions to encourage peer support, education, and relapse prevention
- Monitor clients' progress, evaluate treatment effectiveness, and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans
- Educate clients and their families on the nature of addiction, recovery, and healthy coping strategies
- Maintain accurate and confidential client records, progress notes, and treatment plans
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals and community resources to ensure comprehensive care for clients
- Stay updated on the latest research, trends, and best practices in substance abuse counseling
- Adhere to ethical standards, professional guidelines, and legal requirements in all aspects of your work
To succeed in this role, you must be dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction, possess excellent counseling skills, and have a strong knowledge of substance abuse treatment. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of those struggling with substance abuse, we encourage you to apply for the position of Substance Use Counselor.