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Substance Use Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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Provides clinical services in accordance with all core functions of a substance use disorder professional, including assessment, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention ...

Be Seen First

Provides clinical services in accordance with all core functions of a substance use disorder professional, including assessment, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention ...

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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 are popular job titles related to Substance Use jobs in Rhode Island?

For Substance Use jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Substance Use Specialist
Salary: $60,000 to $65,000
Schedule: Full-Time 37.5 hours per week
WHY JOIN NEWPORT MENTAL HEALTH?
At Newport Mental Health, we invest in our employees by offering competitive pay, exceptional time-off benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.
What We Offer...
  • 3 weeks of paid time off (PTO) to start, with additional PTO for Director-level roles
  • Up to 11 paid holidays each year
  • 1 paid Flex Holiday each year
  • Separate paid personal days
  • Separate paid sick time
  • $3,000 annual bilingual pay incentive
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Dependent Care Accounts
  • 403(b) retirement savings plan
  • Company-paid life insurance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources

*Benefits and eligibility vary by position, scheduled hours, and employment status; additional criteria may apply to certain benefits and incentives.
WHO WE ARE...
Newport Mental Health (NMH) is a progressive high-energy organization that uses state of the art person-centered recovery approach to help individuals recover from mental illness and substance use disorders. NMH extends its trauma informed evidence-based services to children, adolescents, families, and adults. Our services vary from outreach, specialized program, mental health, school-based therapy, substance use therapy, community-based therapy, and outpatient clinic.
For more information visit our website: www.newportmentalhealth.org
WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR...
Mission- Aligned: You are excited to be a part of Newport Mental Health's mission to improve the lives of our clients living and working in Newport County by providing the highest quality of care.
Ally: You intentionally foster belonging, personal growth, and empowerment for all. You are a strong advocate for the BIPOC, LQBTQIA+, Woman, Veteran, and other underrepresented communities.
Solution Orientated: You are driven to think of different approaches to narrow the gap which leads to positive and effective changes.
Time Management: You are a conscious planner and a thoughtful decision maker who adheres to deadlines.
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING (ESSENTIAL DUTIES) ...
We are seeking a Substance Use Specialist to join our team. Partnering with care teams, this role will coordinate care for our clients. Completes Intake & Psychosocial Assessments to determine diagnosis including mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders. This role will accept individuals who are in the process of obtaining their LCDP with proof of progress toward completing licensure. The Substance Use Specialist will be working with an adult population (18+) who have severe and persistent mental illness requiring intensive, community-based treatment.
Essential Duties:
  • Provide individual substance use counseling to assigned clients in accordance with organization policy & procedures.
  • Lead group activities and group therapy related to substance abuse and addictions.
  • Participate in comprehensive team treatment planning and activities.
  • Collaborate with other disciplines and coworkers to ensure client needs are met.
  • Educate clients regarding issues associated with substance abuse treatment.

Requirements
WHAT WE EXPECT OF YOU...
  • LCDP Certification in process with proof of progress toward completion or Bachelor's Degree with major in social science or related field.
  • Exceptional verbal and writing skills with the ability to communicate with audiences across all levels.
  • Self-motivated and independent with the ability to prioritize work to meet deadlines.
  • Valid Driver's License with reliable transportation to travel to our facilities throughout the area.

APPLY NOW
Submitting your application is a great way to learn more about Newport Mental Health. If you have questions about how your experience aligns with our job openings or know someone who would be a great candidate for our job openings, please contact Human Resources:
Human Resources
Newport Mental Health
42 Valley Road
Middletown, RI 02842
Tel: 401-846-1213
Fax: 401-324-6251
Newport Mental Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
Salary Description
$60,000.00 to $65,000.00