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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Turlock, CA (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Clinician I/II

Modesto, CA · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

Substance Use Disorders (SUD) The Mental Health Clinician assigned to the Substance Use Disorder ... counseling, facilitate family therapy, and Support care coordination. Services are delivered in ...

Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or other related mental health discipline Experience * One (1) or more years of experience preferred. * Experience with substance use disorders ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Turlock, CA salary details

$14

$26

$37

How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Turlock, CA is $26.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.50 and $30.34 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 Turlock, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Turlock, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 57% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,700 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

$50.03/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Partner with us in making a positive change! Join a team where your work truly matters. We're proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work for 8 years by our own employees. We invite you to partner with us in our mission to improve mental healthcare.

Job Title: On-Call Mental Health Counselor

Division/Program: (Adult 24/7 Inpatient) Crisis Residential Unit

Starting Compensation: 17.46 - 19.00 USD Per Hour

Working Location: Merced, CA

Working Hours/Shift: On‑call shifts

Available for Coverage: AM (6:00–2:30), PM (2:00–10:30), or NOC (10:00–6:30). No set schedule—coverage depends on program needs and applicant availability.

Why Join Our Team?

Competitive Compensation: Offering a salary that matches your skills and experience.

Generous Time Off: Enjoy ample vacation and holiday pay.

Comprehensive Benefits Package: Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Additional voluntary benefits to support your lifestyle.

Professional Growth Opportunities: On-the-job training with access to paid CEU opportunities.

Career development programs designed to help you grow.

Supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals (where applicable).

Employee Recognition & Rewards: A culture that celebrates and rewards your hard work and dedication

What you bring to SBHG:

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required; an associate degree in a social science field is preferred.

Experience: One (1) year of full-time direct care experience preferred, OR one (1) year of non-professional, consumer-directed internship experience in the mental health field preferred.

Licensure & Compliance: A valid California Driver’s License and the ability to meet agency driving criteria.

How you will make a difference

This position has the primary responsibility for assisting clients with daily living skills, including eating, personal hygiene, grooming, and other care needs.

Monitors participation in activities and encourages client engagement through positive support and motivation.

Leads and assists with activity groups and community outings, promotes positive social interactions, and serves as a role model for appropriate behavior.

Maintains accurate documentation of client attendance and participation in activities and therapeutic services and may transport clients using a company vehicle as needed.

Division/Program Overview:

Population Served: Serving adults, ages 18-59

Facility & Setting: 24/7 inpatient voluntary program, 16-bed facility

Clinical Services: Rehabilitation/recovery services, including substance use rehabilitation services

Length of Stay: 30 day stay

Skills & Services: Pre-vocational or vocational counseling and medication evaluation and support services.

Learn more about SBHG at: https://www.starsinc.com/stars-inc/

For Additional Information: CencalJobs@Starsinc.com

Join an organization dedicated to improving lives and supporting those facing mental health and behavioral challenges.

At Stars Behavioral Health Group, we are seeking passionate professionals ready to make a lasting, positive impact on children, youth, families, and adults across California.

As a leading statewide provider, SBHG brings together over 2,000 professionals across 70+ specialized programs and 60+ locations, delivering compassionate care to more than 40,000 individuals each year.

We are committed to diversity as we believe exceptional care begins with a diverse team.

SBHG is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive work environment that celebrates LGBTQ+, cultural, racial, and ethnic diversity across every level of our organization.

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