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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Specialist

Broadview, IL · On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Assessing clients to identify substance use issues and developing a plan to help clients set ... Conducting individual counseling to provide crises intervention, support & guidance, and address ...

Substance Use Specialist

Broadview, IL · On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Assessing clients to identify substance use issues and developing a plan to help clients set ... Conducting individual counseling to provide crises intervention, support & guidance, and address ...

Substance Use Specialist

Broadview, IL · On-site

$50K - $54K/yr

Assessing clients to identify substance use issues and developing a plan to help clients set ... Conducting individual counseling to provide crises intervention, support & guidance, and address ...

Showing results 21-40

Substance Use Counselor information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Wheaton, IL is $24.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $27.88 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 Wheaton, IL?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Wheaton, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Wheaton, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Wheaton, IL are:

What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Wheaton, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,204 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Counselor - Substance Use Disorder - Joliet

Family Guidance Centers, Inc.

Joliet, IL • On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Join Our Mission at Family Guidance Centers, Inc. (FGC)!

Family Guidance Centers, Inc. is a substance use treatment organization offering comprehensive behavioral health programs, including medication-assisted recovery, to individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) and co-occurring mental health conditions. With over 25 years of experience and multiple locations across the state, we provide a full continuum of care for substance use disorder, from prevention and harm reduction to treatment and recovery support. Our programs integrate FDA-approved medications for the treatment of substance use disorders, including all three medications approved to treat opioid use disorder (buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone). We strive to meet our patients where they are, bringing care outside clinic walls via telehealth and mobile services and ensuring patients have access to harm reduction resources and education. 

Essential Duties:  

·         Develop patient treatment plans and conducts continued stay review based on research, clinical experience, and patients' histories - using computer assessments. 

·         Provide patient intakes (biopsychosocial assessment), treatment planning, case coordination, staffing, aftercare planning and discharge with individual and group therapy for a full spectrum of referral sources.

·         Provide direct clinical service to a full caseload, achieving a minimum of 20 billable hours weekly.

·         Counsel patients individually, or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes.

·         Maintain at least 51% of work time in face-to-face counseling, contacts.

·         Review and evaluate patients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans. 

Schedule: Monday - Friday (6:00 AM - 2:30 PM)

Start Date: ASAP

Pay Rate: $43,000 - $ 55,000 per year; based on certification and experience

Location: 2400 Glenwood Ave., Joliet, IL

Family Guidance Centers, Inc. is a Drug Free Environment (including THC and/or CBD).

DCFS clearance required.

Family Guidance Centers, Inc. is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, ethnicity , pregnancy, gender, protected veterans status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion.


Education and/or Experience: High School Diploma / GED required; Experience in/with substance use, detox programs, medication-assisted treatment, behavioral healthcare and/or community relations encouraged to apply

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: IAODAPCA Certified Alcohol and Other Drugs Counselor (CADC) required, or able to obtain within allotted time of hire date.