1

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

Program Assistant (full-time)

Novato, CA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at:

Program Assistant (Weekend)

Novato, CA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at:

Program Assistant (Weekend)

Novato, CA · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at:

Program Assistant (full-time)

Novato, CA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at:

Program Assistant (full-time)

Novato, CA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor . We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at: P ...

Program Assistant (Weekend)

Novato, CA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor . We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement! HOW TO APPLY Apply through our job link at: P ...

SHIFT LEAD

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$29 - $30/hr

... and substance use challenges in the North Bay. As the Shift Lead, you will oversee the assigned ... alongside counselors and treatment support staff, monitoring medication administration, and ...

... and substance use challenges in the North Bay. As a Treatment Support Specialist, you will play a vital role in supporting counselors by handling routine administrative and operational tasks ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN - CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$36.96/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching • Company paid life insurance • Tax free Health Spending ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN - CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including free counseling and health coaching * Company paid life ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN - CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$38.44/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching • Company paid life insurance • Tax free Health Spending ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN - CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$36.96/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching • Company paid life insurance • Tax free Health Spending ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN-CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching Company paid life insurance Tax free Health Spending Accounts (HSA ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN-CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including free counseling and health coaching * Company paid life ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN - CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching Company paid life insurance Tax free Health Spending Accounts (HSA ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN-CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... counseling and health coaching Company paid life insurance Tax free Health Spending Accounts (HSA ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Nurse Discharge Planner LVN-CalAIM

Santa Rosa, CA

$30 - $40.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including free counseling and health coaching * Company paid life ... and substance use needs prior to release. The role conducts basic nursing assessments, reviews ...

Shift Supervisor

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... substance use disorders. Our trauma-informed, relationship-centered approach combines evidence ... Work actively with clients who may be at risk for AMA including one-to-one counseling, notification ...

Showing results 41-60

Substance Use Counselor information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$27

$38

How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,923 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Program Assistant (full-time)

Living at Reflections

Novato, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Company Profile
Living at Reflections, LLC. (Reflections) provides clinical excellence in the intensive treatment of drug & alcohol addiction & dependence in an exclusive, high-end environment conducive to achieving and sustaining long-term sobriety. Reflections specializes in dual-diagnosis programs that focus on mental health, which drives substance abuse in the first place.
We are seeking experienced Program Assistants (PA) to join our team. With this opportunity, not only will it allow you to work with our programs helping people change their lives, but will also enhance your training and experience in the field.
We can assist you in becoming registered to be a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor. We provide up to $400 annually for education reimbursement!
HOW TO APPLY
Apply through our job link at:
https://livingatreflections.bamboohr.com/careers/24
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the direction of the Reflections' Management Team, the Program Assistant (PA) is an active participant in our clients' first steps of recovery and overall experience.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Primary role of a Program Assistant is to engage with clients in a supportive manner when clients are between sessions or groups. Clients should have access to the PA at all times when they are not in session.
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Provide support/engage in recovery dialogue and behaviors with clients
  • Maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations, ADA, DHCS, and Joint Commission policies and procedures.
  • Proficient documentation in KIPU Systems
  • Perform new client admission including orientation, complete all appropriate KIPU forms, recurring assessment, exit surveys, search of personal property, etc.) Provide clients with a copy of admission forms
  • Chaperone clients to self-help meetings, outings, and labs when needed (in company vehicles only)
  • Facilitate program activities (i.e., going on walks, playing board games, oversee holiday activities)
  • Enforce client rules and regulations for physical, emotional, and spiritual safety- Including getting clients to group on time
  • Establish a consistent presence and awareness of clients' behavior.
  • Document thorough shift notes pertaining to each individual clients' daily progress and distribute to appropriate staff at the end of shift.
  • At the beginning and end of each shift, communicate thoroughly between shifts by completing "pass down." Surrender the PA cell phone and key exchange to the oncoming staff
  • Assist in medication observation and documentation/Detox Observation and client monitoring
  • Obtain and send out Urine Analysis as needed if medical staff are not available
  • Answer phones and gate calls; keep the PA phone on you at all times; meet all incoming visitors at front door
  • Assist as needed in Crisis Intervention
  • Perform random room/belonging searches (if applicable)
  • Support Culinary Department as needed (i.e., load/unload dishwasher, assist in food preparation when Chef is unavailable, prepare continental breakfast, restock client snacks and coffee/tea selection, place settings at table, restock beverages in client fridge)
  • Straighten up communal areas. Ensure the facility is always tour ready.
  • When housekeeping is not on-site, empty all trash cans in the facility, change bedsheets if necessary, vacuum before admits/ discharges, and complete laundry. Ensure all bathrooms are stocked with paper towels, clean towels, toilet paper, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, air freshener, and hand soap
  • Ensure client bedrooms are prepared and presentable for new client admission
  • Enter and maintain EHR notes and Psychosocial assessments, etc. (if applicable)
  • Participate in activities needed to support the management functions of the team
  • Maintain a professional and recovery centered communication with coworkers in client settings
  • Assisting in residents discharge, facilitating residents' transportation and continuity of care with the next level of care environment and/or facility.
  • Distribute client schedules Sunday night (if applicable)
  • Under the supervision of a delegated Substance Abuse Counselor or Program Director, work towards obtaining the Twelve (12) Core Functions hours needed to become a certified substance abuse counselor
  • Attends all staff development trainings, group supervision team meetings, and adhere the compliance of AOD credentialing
  • Stay awake and alert during all hours
  • Maintain a business casual dress code
  • Time off requests should be submitted to supervisor a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the date requested
  • You may be asked to work at a different site than where you are first assigned
  • Scheduled hours are subject to change based on census and company needs
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What You Will Bring:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES)
  • Current AOD Certification with organization recognized by the DHCS OR Registration with BBS or AOD Certifying body, depending on education level.
  • Must have current CPR, First Aid certification, negative Tuberculosis results clearance
  • Valid California Driver License and clean driving record
  • Current negative Tuberculosis results clearance
  • Demonstrated ability in dealing directly with clients
  • Ability to multitask, delegate tasks, manage care, maintain facility standards
  • Desire to assist those with chemical dependency in their recovery
  • Understanding of causes, symptoms, and effects of substance abuse; appreciation for the behavioral, psychological, physical and social effects of drug abuse.
  • Excellent interpersonal, written and communication skills.
  • Operational knowledge of Google Office Suite and KIPU (preferred).
  • Ability to maintain sensitivity and objectivity under pressures generated by association with substance abuse treatment participants.
  • Demonstrate ethical behavior in order to maintain professional standards and safeguard the clients.
  • Protect and maintain program clients' health, safety, welfare, and confidentiality of records and participant information.
  • Ability to multitask, delegate tasks, manage care, maintain facility standards
  • 1 year experience in the field of recovery or equivalent human services work experience preferred

What We Offer:
  • Pay: $25 hour
  • Schedule: various
  • Medical, Dental, Vision.
  • Paid vacation, sick time, & holidays.
  • 401K, HSA, & Life insurance programs.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.