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Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor Jobs in Columbus, OH

We are seeking passionate, experienced Primary Counselors to provide integrated behavioral healthcare care services; that may include per licensure and/or certification diagnosis, treatment of ...

We are seeking passionate, experienced Primary Counselors to provide integrated behavioral healthcare care services; that may include per licensure and/or certification diagnosis, treatment of ...

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Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor information

See Columbus, OH salary details

$13

$24

$35

How much do drug alcohol trainee counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug alcohol trainee counselor in Columbus, OH is $24.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor, you need foundational knowledge of addiction counseling, strong interpersonal skills, and typically a relevant degree or progress toward certification. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and counseling documentation systems is often required. Outstanding active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for building trust, supporting recovery, and ensuring effective treatment planning for clients struggling with substance use disorders.

What are some common challenges Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselors face during their initial months on the job?

Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, managing emotionally charged situations, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of treatment facilities. New counselors may also find it demanding to balance documentation requirements with direct client care. However, most teams provide strong supervision and peer support, which helps trainees develop their counseling skills and confidence over time.

What is a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor?

A Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor is an individual who is in the process of receiving training and supervision to provide counseling and support services to people struggling with substance abuse. They typically work under the guidance of a licensed or certified counselor while gaining the necessary experience and education to become fully certified. Their duties may include conducting intake interviews, assisting with treatment planning, facilitating group sessions, and providing resources to clients. The trainee counselor plays a crucial role in helping clients begin their recovery journey while ensuring all actions adhere to ethical and legal standards. This position is often a stepping stone to becoming a certified or licensed substance abuse counselor.

What is the difference between Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectDrug Alcohol Trainee CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; ongoing trainingCertification or license often required; relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentInternship or supervised setting, entry-levelClinics, rehab centers, or hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageTraining role within addiction servicesProfessional role providing treatment

The main difference is that a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor is an entry-level position focused on gaining experience and training, while a Substance Abuse Counselor is a licensed professional providing direct treatment. Trainees work under supervision, whereas licensed counselors operate independently. Both roles are essential in addiction treatment settings, but the Trainee role is a stepping stone toward becoming a fully licensed Substance Abuse Counselor.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Columbus, OH? For Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Columbus, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Columbus, OH look for? The top searched job categories for Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Columbus, OH are:
What cities near Columbus, OH are hiring for Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs? Cities near Columbus, OH with the most Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor job openings:

Behavioral Health Counselor

Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center

Mount Vernon, OH โ€ข On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Are you an experienced Behavioral Health Counselor looking for an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the Mount Vernon community? Join our team at Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center where you can utilize your expertise to help individuals and families navigate through challenging times. As a full-time Behavioral Health Counselor, you will have the chance to work onsite with clients and collaborate with a supportive team of professionals. With a competitive salary ranging from $45,000 to $60,000 based on your license and experience, this position offers a rewarding career path for dedicated counselors. You will receive great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Time Off, and a 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution. Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center of Knox County is a Federal Loan Forgiveness Participant. Apply today and be a part of an agency that values empathy, integrity, and customer-centricity.
Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center: What drives us
The Freedom Center, a non-profit community behavioral health center, has been providing quality behavioral healthcare to adults and adolescents for more than 45 years and seeks to make a positive difference in the lives of individuals living with mental health issues and substance use disorders. We offer our staff an environment where ideas and contributions are recognized and valued. Our team members are provided a range of growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, career resources, celebratory acknowledgments and the chance to give back to the population we serve.
Your day as a Behavioral health counselor
As a Behavioral Health Counselor at Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center, you will play a crucial role in the lives of our patients by developing and implementing personalized treatment plans through comprehensive diagnostic assessments. Conducting individual, family, and group therapy sessions aligned with our high standards of care, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the well-being of those facing challenges. Your responsibilities will include thorough documentation of client interactions, effective communication with involved parties, and fostering strong ties between The Freedom Center and the community.
Would you be a great Behavioral Health Counselor?
To excel in the role of Behavioral Health Counselor at Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center, candidates must possess at least a Bachelor's in Social Work, a LSW, and relevant counseling experience. A Master's degree in a behavioral health field with licensure, such as LISW, LPC, LPCC, LMFT, LIMFT, LCDC, or LICDC, is preferred.
Knowledge and skills required for the position are:
  • Techniques used to diagnose and treat mental health issues
  • Principles, theories, and methods of emotional and social development
  • Legal, ethical, and professional rules of conduct
  • HIPAA and other Federal/State laws regarding confidentiality and storage or health information

If this job sounds right for you, we encourage you to apply.
The Freedom Center is an equal opportunity employer. The agency does not discriminate in its employment decisions against individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income, political beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
For questions about this position or Alcohol and Drug Freedom Center, please contact .