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Substance Use Therapist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

N.E.W. Medical Clinic at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

$50K - $63K/yr

Substance Use Therapist (Behavioral Health) NEW Community Clinic | Full-Time | Monday-Friday Make an impact where it matters most. At N.E.W. Community Clinic (NEWCC), we believe everyone deserves ...

WELLSTONE

Substance Use Therapist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

At our River Crossing Withdrawal Management facility, the Substance Use Therapist works with clients to identify issues related to drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The Therapist should also be ...

Avenues Recovery

Substance Use Therapist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Now Hiring Therapists for our newest inpatient Detox and Residential treatment facility, in North Chesterfield, VA.What You'll DoCreate individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each client ...

Avenues Recovery

Substance Use Therapist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$49K - $61K/yr

Now Hiring Therapists for our newest inpatient Detox and Residential treatment facility, in North Chesterfield, VA. What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each ...

Avenues Recovery

Substance Use Therapist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$51K - $64K/yr

Now Hiring Therapists for our newest inpatient Detox and Residential treatment facility, in North Chesterfield, VA. What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each ...

Avenues Recovery

Substance Use Therapist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Now Hiring Therapists for our newest inpatient Detox and Residential treatment facility, in North Chesterfield, VA. What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each ...

Avenues Recovery

Substance Use Therapist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$49K - $61K/yr

Now Hiring Therapists for our newest inpatient Detox and Residential treatment facility, in North Chesterfield, VA. What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each ...

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Substance Use Therapist information

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How much do substance use therapist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use therapist in the United States is $59,688.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance use therapist?

A Substance Use Therapist is a mental health professional who specializes in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction. They assess clients' needs, develop personalized treatment plans, and provide counseling to support recovery. Substance Use Therapists may use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and group therapy. Their goal is to help clients achieve and maintain sobriety while addressing underlying emotional or psychological issues. They often work in clinics, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance use therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Use Therapist, you need a solid background in counseling or social work, typically supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification in addiction counseling. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), motivational interviewing techniques, and evidence-based treatment modalities like CBT is crucial. Exceptional empathy, active listening, and strong communication skills help build trust and rapport with clients facing substance use challenges. These skills and qualities enable therapists to provide effective support, foster recovery, and ensure ethical, client-centered care.

What are some common challenges substance use therapists face when supporting clients through recovery?

Substance Use Therapists often encounter challenges such as client relapse, ambivalence toward treatment, and co-occurring mental health disorders. Building trust and maintaining client engagement can require patience and adaptability, as each individual's recovery journey is unique. Therapists must regularly collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including medical professionals, social workers, and family members—to provide holistic support and address the complex needs of clients. Effective coping strategies and ongoing professional supervision are key to managing emotional demands and promoting positive outcomes.

What is the difference between Substance Use Therapist vs Addiction Counselor?

AspectSubstance Use TherapistAddiction Counselor
CredentialsRequires state licensure, often a master's degree in counseling or social workOften requires certification or licensure, such as CADC or LPC
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, outpatient programs, residential facilitiesRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community health settings
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and mental health servicesWidely used in addiction treatment centers and recovery programs

Both roles focus on helping individuals overcome substance use issues, often requiring similar credentials and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology preference, with 'Substance Use Therapist' emphasizing a therapeutic approach, while 'Addiction Counselor' highlights addiction-specific treatment. Both careers are vital in the addiction recovery industry and often overlap in duties and qualifications.

How to become a substance use therapist?

To become a substance use therapist, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by obtaining a master's degree such as an MSW or an MFT. Licensure or certification, like the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), is often required and involves completing supervised clinical hours and passing an exam. Strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of addiction treatment are essential for success in this role.

What degree is best for a substance use therapist?

A substance use therapist typically benefits from a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many roles require or prefer a master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or addiction studies, along with relevant licensure or certification. Advanced education and training enhance job prospects and effectiveness in treatment settings.

What cities are hiring for Substance Use Therapist jobs?

Cities with the most Substance Use Therapist job openings:

What states have the most Substance Use Therapist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substance Use Therapist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Substance Use Therapist jobs?

For Substance Use Therapist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Substance Use Therapist jobs near you

Substance Use Therapist

Opelika, AL • On-site

Integrea Community Mental Health Systems
See more jobs at Integrea Community Mental Health Systemsexternal

$44K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Job description

At Integrea Community Mental Health System, you’re not just joining a workplace—you’re joining a missiondriven team that cares deeply about its consumers, its community, and each other. We invest in our employees with comprehensive benefits—including Blue Cross/Blue Shield health and dental, vision and supplemental insurance options, and the security of participating in the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA). 

Position Summary:

The Substance Use Therapist provides outpatient behavioral health services to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. This role involves conducting assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering therapeutic services to support clients in achieving and maintaining recovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct comprehensive substance use assessments and diagnostic evaluations.
  • Develop and implement individualized, strengths-based treatment plans.
  • Provide individual and group therapy focused on substance use recovery and co-occurring mental health issues.
  • Utilize evidence-based treatment approaches, including but not limited to CBT, DBT, MI, and relapse prevention strategies.
  • Collaborate with medical and clinical teams, including prescribers and case managers.
  • Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical documentation in accordance with agency and regulatory standards.
  • Coordinate care with external providers and community resources as appropriate.
  • Participate in case reviews, staff meetings, and clinical supervision.
  • Stay current with developments in substance use treatment and engage in ongoing professional education.
  • All other duties as assigned

* Please note this position will require evening flexibility 

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