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Substance Use Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Counselor

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who We Are Avenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehab centers with 18 locations across 7 states. With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly ...

Substance Use Counselor

Richmond, VA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who We AreAvenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehab centers with 18 locations across 7 states. With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly ...

Substance Use Counselor

Richmond, VA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who We Are Avenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehab centers with 18 locations across 7 states. With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly ...

Substance Use Counselor

Richmond, VA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Who We Are Avenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehab centers with 18 locations across 7 states. With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly ...

$15.25 - $19.75/hr

Our client is looking for a skilled and compassionate Young People's Substance Use Worker, to work within a highly respected social justice and harm reduction charity based in Oxfordshire. What will ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Virginia are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Journey House Behavioral Health RVA

Henrico, VA • On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Journey House Behavioral Health RVA is hiring. Come join our growing team!
SUD COUNSELOR:

We are currently seeking SUD Counselors (CSAC/CSAC-S). You will be responsible for implementing effective treatment services to clients in an individual/group setting.
*These roles are currently part-time with the opportunity for additional hours based on company needs.
This position will act as the primary direct clinical staff mainly providing on-site group PHP/IOP sessions, care coordination/progress notes, and participate in weekly treatment team meetings as well as administrative group supervisions 1-2x per month. You may also be asked to assist in developing initial and comprehensive individualized service plans and provide individual treatment sessions to client. 
Qualifications/Educational Requirements:
− Bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.
− Current licensure or certification as a substance abuse counselor (e.g., CSAC/-S, LADC, LPC, LCSW) in accordance with DBHDS regulations is REQUIRED.
− Experience working with individuals with substance use disorders in a behavioral health or substance abuse treatment setting.
− Working knowledge of the ASAM criteria and its application to clinical assessments and treatment planning.
− Strong understanding of evidence-based practices in substance abuse treatment, including but not limited to motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed care.
− Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team and engage clients in the treatment process.
SUD Counselors shall be able to adequately provide supportive documentation of their work and interventions administered to the client/their families including but not limited to:
– Daily Progress Notes for group and individual sessions (experience required)
– ASAM Multidimensional Assessments and Re-Assessments (not required for everyone; experience preferred)
– Initial / Comprehensive Individualized Services Plans (ISPs)
– Monthly Treatment Reports / ISP Revisions
– Discharge Summaries
– Safety Plans, Fall Risk Assessments/Plans, and Behavioral Supports Screenings
Job Type: Part-time with opportunity to move to full-time
Experience: SUD / addiction recovery field : 1 year (Required)
License/Certification: CSAC/CSAC-Supervisee status (Required)
Ability to Relocate: Henrico, VA 23228: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In-person