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Substance Use Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Therapist, Substance Use

AL · On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of substance use disorder specialty and Certified in HIV Education, Counseling and Testing as outlined below, to be attained within (6) six months of employment. * Knowledge of the nature ...

Therapist, Substance Use

Mobile, AL · On-site

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of substance use disorder specialty and Certified in HIV Education, Counseling and Testing as outlined below, to be attained within (6) six months of employment. * Knowledge of the nature ...

Therapist, Substance Use

Mobile, AL

$39K - $49K/yr

Knowledge of substance use disorder specialty and Certified in HIV Education, Counseling and Testing as outlined below, to be attained within (6) six months of employment. * Knowledge of the nature ...

Substance Use Therapist

Huntsville, AL

$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 ...

Temporary Substance Use Counselor

Oxford, AL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Substance abuse counselor will be in charge with assisting patients through medically assisting ... Our ultimate goal is to address the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of opioid use disorder ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Athens, AL · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Family Life Center, Inc. is seeking a dependable and compassionate Substance Abuse Counselor to provide behavioral health and substance use treatment services to adults and their families. This ...

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Substance Use information

What is a substance use counselor?

A substance use counselor is a professional who helps individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They provide support through assessment, treatment planning, counseling sessions, and recovery strategies. Substance use counselors may work in various settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices, and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Their goal is to guide clients toward recovery and help them develop healthier coping mechanisms.

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 psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by state licensure or certification in addiction counseling. Familiarity with treatment planning software, electronic health records (EHRs), and evidence-based intervention techniques is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities are essential for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These competencies are crucial for effectively guiding individuals through treatment, ensuring ethical care, and fostering positive outcomes in challenging environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in substance use counseling, and how can they be effectively managed?

Substance use counselors often encounter challenges such as managing client relapse, navigating complex co-occurring mental health disorders, and maintaining clear professional boundaries. Building strong therapeutic alliances, participating in regular supervision, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams can help address these difficulties. Ongoing training in trauma-informed care and self-care strategies are also essential for sustaining effectiveness and personal well-being in this emotionally demanding field.

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

AspectSubstance UseSubstance Use Counselor
CredentialsVaries; often no formal certificationCertification required (e.g., CADC, CSAC)
Work EnvironmentCommunity clinics, hospitals, outreach programsRehabilitation centers, clinics, private practice
Industry UsageRefers to the issue or topic of substance useRefers to professionals providing treatment and support

Substance Use describes the issue or behavior related to the consumption of substances, while a Substance Use Counselor is a trained professional who provides treatment and support for individuals struggling with substance use problems. The counselor's role involves assessment, counseling, and developing recovery plans, whereas Substance Use refers to the broader topic or problem itself.

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

$44K - $56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


At Integrea Community Mental Health System, you’re not just joining a workplace—you’re joining a mission‑driven 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 

Qualifications:

  • Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related behavioral health field.
  • Licensure or license-eligibility in the state of practice (e.g., LADC, LPC, LCSW, LMHC, LMFT).
  • Preferred: CADC, LADC, or experience working with clients with substance use disorders.
  • Experience in outpatient treatment settings preferred.
  • Knowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and harm reduction principles.
  • Strong interpersonal, documentation, and crisis intervention skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Work Environment & Schedule:

  • This is an exempt, full-time position.
  • Standard hours are Monday through Friday, with variable hours due to group therapy.
  • This position requires in-person work and is not eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
  • This position is based in a clinical outpatient setting and may require prolonged periods of sitting, computer use, and interaction with clients in person and/or via telehealth platforms. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
  • Therapists work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment that requires flexibility, empathy, and strong crisis intervention skills.
  • The role involves direct client interaction in both individual and group settings, with support from a multidisciplinary team.

In-Service Training & Continued Education Requirements:

  • Participate in all required agency in-service and ADMH trainings
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development to enhance skills and stay informed on best practices in behavioral health.
  • Completion of onboarding and any continuing education requirements as directed by the agency or supervisor.
  • Ongoing professional development to maintain best practices and compliance with evolving standards of care.