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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Current registered, trainee, or certified substance use counselor credential, such as RADT, SUDRC, RAC, CATC Trainee, CADC, SUDCC, CATC, or another qualifying credential. * High school diploma or GED ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

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$38

How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Santa Rosa, CA is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $31.54 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Santa Rosa, 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 $57,923 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Substance Use Case Manager

Avento Health

Glen Ellen, CA • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Substance Use Case Manager

Location: Glen Ellen, California

Job Type: Full-time, W-2

Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Pay: $27–$30 per hour, depending on experience and credential

Work Setting: Residential substance use treatment / detox

Position Overview

Avento Health is recruiting a full-time Substance Use Case Manager for a residential treatment program in Glen Ellen, California, near Santa Rosa.

This is a case-management-focused role supporting adults throughout the substance use treatment and recovery process. The Case Manager works with an assigned caseload of approximately 10–12 clients and is responsible for care planning, treatment documentation, admissions support, coordination of services, and aftercare planning.

This position is especially well suited to someone with substance use treatment experience who enjoys direct client support, strong documentation responsibilities, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary treatment team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary case manager for an assigned caseload of approximately 10–12 clients.
  • Complete assessments and help develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Maintain accurate and timely progress notes, treatment documentation, and client records.
  • Monitor client progress and update treatment plans as needs change.
  • Support admissions, orientation, and transitions into the treatment program.
  • Coordinate medical, behavioral health, legal, referral, and other client needs.
  • Communicate with families, referral sources, and members of the treatment team as appropriate.
  • Support clients with discharge and aftercare planning.
  • Observe client self-administration of medications when required and document appropriately.
  • Collaborate closely with clinical and support staff to promote continuity of care.

Required Qualifications

  • Experience working with individuals receiving substance use disorder, chemical dependency, addiction treatment, or related behavioral health services.
  • Current registered, trainee, or certified substance use counselor credential, such as RADT, SUDRC, RAC, CATC Trainee, CADC, SUDCC, CATC, or another qualifying credential.
  • High school diploma or GED with appropriate specialized training in chemical dependency, or higher education in a related field.
  • Strong case management, treatment planning, documentation, and care coordination skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification.
  • Ability to work Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience in residential substance use treatment or detox.
  • College-level education in counseling, behavioral health, social services, psychology, or a related discipline.
  • Experience working with clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
  • Experience coordinating medical, legal, behavioral health, or community referrals.
  • Familiarity with 12-Step programs and other recovery-support models.
  • MFT or LCSW licensure is a plus but is not required.

Why Consider This Opportunity

  • Predictable daytime schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM.
  • No regular on-call requirement.
  • Manage a defined caseload of approximately 10–12 clients.
  • Strong focus on case management rather than primarily running counseling groups.
  • Opportunity to work closely with an interdisciplinary substance use treatment team.
  • Employer pays approximately 70% of eligible employee benefit costs.
  • Full-time W-2 employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Avento Health and its clients are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

SMS Consent

By applying and providing a mobile number, you consent to receive recruiting-related calls or text messages from Avento Health regarding this and other employment opportunities. Message and data rates may apply. Consent is not a condition of employment. Reply STOP to opt out of text messages.