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Substance Use Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Substance Use Counselor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$58K - $72K/yr

The ideal Substance Use Counselor will be entrusted with a manageable caseload of individuals who are turning to you for guidance, support, and hope as they navigate their recovery journey. You'll ...

Substance Use Counselor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$58K - $72K/yr

The ideal Substance Use Counselor will be entrusted with a manageable caseload of individuals who are turning to you for guidance, support, and hope as they navigate their recovery journey. You'll ...

Substance Use Counselor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$58K - $72K/yr

The ideal Substance Use Counselor will be entrusted with a manageable caseload of individuals who are turning to you for guidance, support, and hope as they navigate their recovery journey. You'll ...

Substance Use Counselor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$44K - $80K/yr

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 Use Counselor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$44K - $80K/yr

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Substance Use information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$32.8K

$58.6K

$84K

How much do substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use in Baltimore, MD is $58,638.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,700.00 and $68,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Baltimore, MD are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities near Baltimore, MD with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,638 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Substance Use Counselor

ELITE HEALTH CARE INC.

Baltimore, MD

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Substance Use Counselor – Elite Healthcare
Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities Available

Position Summary
Elite Healthcare is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Substance Use Counselor to provide high-quality care to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Under general supervision, the counselor delivers comprehensive services including screening, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, and ongoing support. This role plays a key part in helping clients achieve and maintain recovery through evidence-based practices, while ensuring all documentation and services meet regulatory and ethical standards.
Key Responsibilities

  •  Conduct screenings and assessments to determine client eligibility and level of care for substance use treatment. 
  •  Complete comprehensive biopsychosocial evaluations to inform individualized treatment planning. 
  •  Develop, implement, and update person-centered treatment plans based on client progress and clinical needs. 
  •  Facilitate Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) group sessions and provide individual counseling focused on recovery and relapse prevention. 
  •  Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including progress notes, group notes, treatment plans, and discharge summaries. 
  •  Document all services in the electronic health record (EHR) system in compliance with state, federal, and organizational requirements. 
  •  Coordinate care and referrals to community resources, including medical, psychiatric, and social support services. 
  •  Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and relapse prevention strategies as needed. 
  •  Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to support integrated, client-centered care. 
  •  Ensure compliance with confidentiality laws (HIPAA) and client rights regulations. 
  •  Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development to maintain and enhance credentials. 
  •  Complete all assigned responsibilities within required timeframes. 
Qualifications

  •  Minimum of one (1) year of experience in substance use disorder or chemical dependency counseling. 
  •  Active Maryland certification in good standing as one of the following: ADT, CSC-AD, CAC-AD, or LCADC (required). 
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  •  Strong knowledge of substance use disorders, including diagnostic criteria (DSM) and ASAM placement criteria. 
  •  Experience with evidence-based practices such as relapse prevention, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral interventions. 
  •  Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to substance use treatment. 
  •  Familiarity with community resources and recovery support systems. 
  •  Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including strong clinical documentation abilities. 
  •  Ability to build rapport and maintain professional, ethical relationships with diverse populations. 
  •  Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced clinical environment. 
Work Environment

  •  Work is performed in a clinical setting with frequent interaction with clients, staff, and the public. 
  •  Role may involve managing crisis situations and working with clients experiencing emotional or behavioral distress. 
  •  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. 
Additional Information

  •  Performs other duties as assigned to support program operations and client care.