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Substance Use Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Substance Use information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.3K

$61.4K

$87.9K

How much do substance use jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for substance use in Reston, VA is $61,395.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $71,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Substance Use jobs in Reston, VA?

For Substance Use jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Use jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Use jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Substance Use jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Substance Use job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Use job openings in Reston, VA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,395 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

T26/27 SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Arlington, VA • On-site

$25.50 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

This is is a 1.0 FTE position located at the Syphax Education Center in the Department of Student Services. The Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) works with students who have been referred for issues related to substance use.
Each SAC tailors prevention and early intervention programs to fit the needs of their assigned schools/programs. SAC's
help support regular attendance and academic achievement for students, and support the strategic goals of the Arlington
Public Schools. Substance Abuse Counselors provide services in the following major areas:
Substance abuse assessment
Early intervention counseling support to outside services
Case coordination
Consultation with families, community agencies, and school staff
Services are provided in accordance with the Substance Abuse Confidentiality Regulations 42 CFR, and Virginia
Code 37.2-100

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assessment of students whose behaviors may indicate warning signs of substance use.
Assessment and coordination of services for students with dual diagnoses (mental health and substance abuse
concerns).
Assessment, intervention and case coordination of students who have disciplinary infractions related to drugs
and/or alcohol.
Individual and/or group counseling for students with family addiction issues and/or evidence of risk-taking
behaviors.
Referral and coordination of services for students with substance abuse and dependence patterns.
Classroom presentations on drugs, alcohol, decision-making and addiction.
Presentations to staff on drugs, alcohol, and addiction.
Consultation with school staff, family members, and community providers (i.e., probation officers and treatment
providers).
Partnering with school staff to provide early intervention services.
Formal risk assessment for violence and suicide.
Dissemination of educational materials to students, staff and families.
Outreach to the student population through various prevention activities such as bulletin boards, Red Ribbon Week
and National Drug Facts Week.
Collaboration with community committees that relate to substance abuse.
Maintenance of legally mandated documentation.
EXPERIENCE:
Experience in a school setting.
Experience administering/interpreting SASSi and other assessments required
QUALIFICATIONS:
Virginia Certified Substance Abuse Counselor CSAC licensure or, 
Masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology or other mental health field required.
National Addiction Counselor certification or Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), PREFERRED
Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
 

Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G-2.30, Employee Relations - Equal Employment
Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on
the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national
origin, marital status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability."

Salary based on 26/27 Pay PlanÂ