When people have problems with alcohol or drugs, substance abuse counselors are there to help. They identify behaviors, counsel clients and develop recovery plans.
Substance abuse counselors need a combination of specific skills, knowledge and compassion to excel in their professional roles. The path toward developing these skills and attributes can begin with enrolling in the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Applied Psychology – Clinical Psychology online program from Florida Institute of Technology.
Substance Abuse Counselor Job Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors will increase much faster than the average for all occupations in coming years, at a projected growth rate of 8% from 2023 to 2033. In comparison, the average projected growth rate for all occupations is roughly 4%.
As people become more willing to seek help, increased demand for mental health and addiction treatment services will spur job growth in this field. Plus, while the opioid epidemic is finally on the decline, overdoses still result in nearly 90,000 deaths per year, as of 2024. Substance abuse counselors and addiction treatment specialists are on the frontline of preventing these deaths, further driving critical demand for these workers.
Job Duties for Substance Abuse Counselors
Typically, substance abuse counselors are employed by hospitals, local and state governments, outpatient care centers, family services organizations and residential facilities. They help individuals with drug or alcohol problems by identifying behaviors related to their addictions, counseling in either individual or group settings and conducting crisis counseling sessions.
Substance abuse counselors may also interact with family members affected by the addictions of their loved ones. Teaching prevention programs and conducting community outreach are additional job duties.
In many cases, substance abuse counselors refer their clients to social service agencies that can help with various needs. They may also provide consultation to and collaborate with primary care providers, psychiatrists, mental health counselors and others on matters relating to substance abuse and addiction.
Maintaining confidential files and preparing records of a client’s progress are important aspects of a substance abuse counselor’s work. These professionals typically work a 40-hour week, but emergency after-hours calls sometimes occur.
Potential Salary of a Substance Abuse Counselor
BLS reports that substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors earned a median annual salary of $59,610 in 2024. The lowest paid 10% earned less than $39,090, while the highest 10% brought in over $98,210 per year.
Salary potential and employment opportunities may vary depending on factors such as a candidate’s education and experience as well as regional market conditions. Prospective students should conduct independent research into their regional job market and opportunities.
Education and Training for Substance Abuse Counselors
Education and training for substance abuse counselor jobs vary according to the employer and state licensing requirements. According to BLS, substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors generally need a bachelor’s degree at minimum. Aspiring professionals in this field typically focus their undergraduate studies on areas like clinical psychology, social services and social science.
Counselors in private practice must obtain licensure and further education, all depending on specific state regulations. Licensure also requires passing an examination and participating in annual continuing education. Further required certifications also vary by state.
The first step to a substance abuse counselor career can be earning a bachelor’s degree in applied psychology with a concentration in clinical psychology. Coursework typically includes social psychology, clinical and community psychology, crisis and conflict resolution, and physiological psychology.
Employers can be confident that graduates of an applied psychology program are able to:
- Understand applied psychology concepts, including theory, trends and empirical findings
- Identify challenges facing people with addictions
- Critically examine clinical assessment methods
- Value sociocultural diversity, including key concepts and complexity
- Apply advanced skills and knowledge to succeed as a substance abuse counselor
Who Should Pursue a Career as a Substance Abuse Counselor?
A substance abuse counselor career could be a good fit for those who possess excellent decision-making, problem-solving, leadership and communication skills. Emotional stability, sensitivity, compassion and a high energy level are also important to be successful in this field.
Aspiring professionals can develop and hone these skills and attributes independently and through specialized education. Accelerating skill- and knowledge-development through earning a BA in Applied Psychology – Clinical Psychology degree from Florida Tech can help fast-track a career in substance abuse counseling and treatment.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BA in Applied Psychology – Clinical Psychology program.
