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

Peer Counselor

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$19.20 - $21.15/hr

The Peer Counselor will provide expertise that professional training cannot replicate. POSITION ... Staff should have lived experience with homelessness, mental health and/or substance use. Should be ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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?

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 Reston, VA?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,116 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Full-Time Clinical Counselor - Licensed (LCPC) - Remote Opportunity in Oxon Hill, MD

Guidance & Growth Counseling Services

Oxon Hill, MD • On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Position Overview

Guidance & Growth Counseling Services is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) to join our expanding team. This full-time position allows for a remote work environment, providing flexibility and the opportunity to positively impact the mental health of individuals and families in the Oxon Hill, Maryland area. As a valued member of our clinical team, you will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality, evidence-based therapeutic services that foster mental well-being.

About the Organization

At Guidance & Growth Counseling Services, our core belief is that merging mental and physical health care leads to improved community wellness. Our mission encompasses the goal of transforming lives by ensuring accessible, affordable, and personalized mental health services for everyone, every day. As one of the fastest-growing behavioral health practices in the United States, we are known for our commitment to clinical excellence and patient satisfaction. Joining our team means becoming part of a vibrant community of professionals dedicated to making a difference.

Work Environment

This role provides a unique work environment where licensed counselors can thrive in a remote setting while maintaining connections with our collaborative clinical team. Our community health clinic emphasizes a supportive and inclusive culture, designed to enhance professional development. With a focus on work-life balance, our hybrid model allows for both telehealth and in-person interactions, adapting to the needs of our clients and the schedules of our counselors.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive evaluations for clients to develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions to clients through various modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy.
  • Facilitate group, family, couple, and individual therapy sessions tailored to clients’ unique needs.
  • Maintain accurate clinical documentation and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and ethical standards.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate holistic care for clients and assess their ongoing needs.
  • Engage in continuous professional development through workshops and training to stay informed of the latest trends and research in mental health.
Patient Population / Client Focus

In this role, you will serve a diverse patient population, including individuals, families, and couples facing various mental health challenges. Our clientele ranges from youth to adults, dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, trauma, and substance use disorders. Understanding the complexities of these issues is essential for tailoring therapeutic interventions to foster healing and growth.

Qualifications
  • A Master’s or Doctoral degree in Counseling, Psychology, or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Active and unrestricted licensure as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland.
  • A minimum of two years of professional counseling experience, preferably within a clinical setting.
  • Demonstrated understanding of ethical and legal standards in counseling practice.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to establish rapport with a diverse clientele.
Preferred Experience
  • Specializations in family therapy, couples therapy, trauma-informed care, or substance use counseling are highly desirable.
  • Experience leveraging a range of therapeutic modalities and techniques.
  • A record of successful client outcomes is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits

Guidance & Growth Counseling Services offers a competitive salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, supplemented by an attractive bonus structure. Our benefits package is designed to support the well-being of our staff, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, and more. Additionally, we offer a sign-on bonus to qualified candidates as part of our commitment to attracting top talent.

Career Growth Opportunities

We are dedicated to the professional growth of our staff. As part of our team, you will have access to mentorship programs, sponsored training, workshops, and opportunities to advance within the organization. We encourage our counselors to pursue further certifications and specializations aligned with their career goals.

Why Join Our Team

Becoming a part of Guidance & Growth Counseling Services means joining a passionate team that values collaboration, innovation, and quality care. By contributing to our mission of providing exceptional mental health services, you will feel fulfilled while knowing you are making a substantial influence in the lives of others. Take this chance to grow in a supportive environment while enjoying the benefits of flexible scheduling and rewarding casework.

Application Information

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and positively impact the mental health of your community, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any relevant certifications to our HR department, outlining your qualifications and why you believe you would be a perfect fit for our team at Guidance & Growth Counseling Services. We look forward to exploring your potential alongside us!