What Substance Abuse Counselors DoCounsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.
- Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients' histories and progress, services provided, or other required information.
- Counsel clients or patients, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes.
- Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
- Follow progress of discharged patients to determine effectiveness of treatments.
- Conduct chemical dependency program orientation sessions.
Substance Abuse Counselors Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)
Training TimeOver 4 years
Job Openings48,300 Annually
Median Earnings
$61,310 in California
$59,190 Nationally
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Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Relating with or serving others
- Thinking and problem solving
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Service Orientation
- Social Perceptiveness
- Speaking
Go Deeper: Substance Abuse Counselors Explained
Substance Abuse CounselorExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
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