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Substance Use Counselor Jobs in Worcester, MA (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Counselor

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$310 - $442/hr

Substance Use Counselor Full TimeHours: Early morning schedule that encourages a great work-life balance: * Monday - Friday, 5:30 AM - 1:30 PM Why Work With Us? Benefits Include: * Semi-Annual Bonus ...

Substance Use Counselor Full Time Hours: Early morning schedule that encourages a great work-life balance: * Monday - Friday, 5:30 AM - 1:30 PM Why Work With Us? Benefits Include: * Semi-Annual Bonus ...

Substance Use Counselor

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$27.88 - $29.81/hr

Substance Use Counselor Full Time Hours: Early morning schedule that encourages a great work-life balance: * Monday - Friday, 5:30 AM - 1:30 PM Why Work With Us? Benefits Include: * Semi-Annual Bonus ...

The Substance Use Counselor will conduct assessments and provide therapeutic services to residents requiring additional support as a result of co-occurring disorders and/or traumas. Who We Are At ...

The Substance Use Counselor will conduct assessments and provide therapeutic services to residents requiring additional support as a result of co-occurring disorders and/or traumas. Who We Are At ...

The Substance Use Counselor will conduct assessments and provide therapeutic services to residents requiring additional support as a result of co-occurring disorders and/or traumas. Who We Are At ...

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Substance Use Counselor information

See Worcester, MA salary details

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How much do substance use counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance use counselor in Worcester, MA is $25.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 and $28.75 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 Worcester, MA?

For Substance Use Counselor jobs in Worcester, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use Counselor jobs in Worcester, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use Counselor jobs in Worcester, MA are:

What cities near Worcester, MA are hiring for Substance Use Counselor jobs?

Cities near Worcester, MA with the most Substance Use Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use Counselor job openings in Worcester, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,787 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Substance Use Counselor

Acadia Healthcare

Fitchburg, MA • On-site

$310 - $442/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Acadia Healthcare rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 190 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

696th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Outpatient MAT Opioid Treatment Program

Now Hiring: Substance Use Counselor

Full TimeHours: Early morning schedule that encourages a great work-life balance:

  • Monday - Friday, 5:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Why Work With Us? Benefits Include:
  • Semi-Annual Bonus Program
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Competitive 401(k) with employer match
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Employer-paid clinical supervision (free to employees)
  • Free and unlimited access to 500+ accredited Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supporting your mental health & well-being
  • Industry-leading growth and development opportunities
Our Team:

Fitchburg Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC), located in Fitchburg, MA, is part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers—the nation's leader in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for individuals seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder. We provide a continuum of care that includes Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Office-Based Addiction Treatment (OBAT), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and mobile treatment units. Our approach to holistic addiction care extends beyond clinical treatment, incorporating recovery coaching, community outreach and partnerships to ensure patients receive comprehensive, patient-centered support.

Transforming Lives with Community & Compassion:

With 14 outpatient opioid treatment programs (OTPs) across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, we’re breaking down barriers to care and supporting long-term recovery. Our CTC clinics partner with nursing homes, justice systems, and community groups to provide holistic, patient-centered care. From wellness initiatives and holiday celebrations to yoga and animal therapy, we foster a supportive environment for healing and whole-person well-being.

Your Job as a Substance Use Counselor:

The Substance Use Counselor is instrumental in our patient’s treatment and recovery from opioid use disorder. Substance Use Counselors provide high quality, compassionate care through various mediums which include both individual and group counseling sessions.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Provide high quality, compassionate guidance in both individual and group counseling sessions.
  • Plan, oversee, facilitate and document patient's recovery.
  • Co-facilitate assigned group or family sessions as needed.
  • Ensure all documentation regarding patient care, treatment, and incidents is completed timely and in a clear, concise manner.
  • Prepare individual treatment plans for each assigned patient.
  • Initial assessments as well as follow up assessments.
  • Evaluate patient needs and determine if referrals to other programs or facilities are needed.
  • May plan for aftercare for assigned patients.
  • Provide crisis intervention to patients, as needed.
  • Provide case management duties for patients, ensuring individualized quality care as needed.
  • Act as a liaison between referral sources and patients, as needed.

Compensation for roles at Fitchburg CTC varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the specific location, role, skill set, and level of experience. Fitchburg CTC provides a reasonable hourly range of compensation for roles that may be hired in Massachusetts as set forth below.Role Location: Massachusetts

Calculated Salary Range for therole: $27.88 - $29.81 per hour

Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic site eligibility. Check your eligibilty here: HRSA Eligibility

QualificationsRequired Education:
  • Master’s Degree in a relevant field is required, or one of the following credentials: CAC, CAS, CADC, CRC, LADC I, LADC II, LICSW, LCSW, LMHC, or LMFT.
  • Bachelor’s Degree holders without credentials are encouraged to apply if they are committed to obtaining required credentials within 30-60 days of employment.
  • For Bachelor’s-level candidates, we provide reimbursement for licensing or certification exam fees to support credential attainment.
  • Degree obtained must be in psychology, social work, or related health services field from an accredited college or university.
Your Skills & Experience:
  • Previous experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, such as outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities.

  • Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.

  • Experience conducting individual and group counseling sessions focused on substance use recovery.

  • Knowledge of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and relapse prevention techniques.

  • Documentation experience, including maintaining clinical notes, treatment plans, and progress updates in accordance with state and federal guidelines.

  • Familiarity with state regulatory standards (e.g., 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, Joint Commission standards).

  • Experience collaborating in a multidisciplinary team with medical staff, case managers, and peer support specialists.

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Candidates who do not hold a Master’s degree must possess one of the following certifications or commit to obtaining it within 60 days of hire:
    • CAC, CAS, CADC, CRC, LADC I, LADC II, LICSW, LCSW, LMHC, or LMFT.
    • We provide reimbursement for licensing or certification exam fees to support credential attainment.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual’s characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

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About Acadia Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider in the healthcare and hospital industry, based in Franklin, Tennessee, United States. The company is recognised for its commitment to creating a behavioural health network that provides accessible, high-quality treatment options for individuals suffering from mental health issues, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD. Acadia Healthcare was founded in 2005, with the mission to create a world-class organization that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of specialty behavioural health and addiction disorders.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2005

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