Drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs focus on helping people manage substance abuse, chemical dependency, and related mental health concerns through structured care. These jobs are found across outpatient clinics, community programs, and integrated treatment settings where counselors provide counseling, guidance, and crisis intervention. A substance abuse counselor works directly with clients to support recovery, manage risk, and connect people with services that fit their needs.
At Rego Park Counseling, drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs exist within an outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment setting serving Queens and the wider New York City area. The site provides structured substance abuse treatment, support for co-occurring disorders, individual counseling, group therapy, and coordinated services that reflect community needs and applicable law. Programs emphasize responsible care, recovery-focused practices, and access for diverse clients across age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, and veteran status.
What Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counselor Jobs Mean in Individual Care
Drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs in an individual care center focus on one-on-one counseling rather than relying only on group formats. Individual care allows a counselor to focus on a client’s substance use history, mental health background, and current risk factors. This approach is often used for clients with chemical dependency, co-occurring disorders, or complex social and legal needs.
Group therapy still plays a role in most substance abuse treatment programs, but individual care supports deeper work around behavior change, coping skills, and relapse planning. Counselors may move clients between individual counseling and group therapy based on progress, safety, and treatment goals. This balance supports long-term recovery and improves treatment engagement.
If you are looking for structured, one-on-one substance abuse care, we offer individual substance use treatment designed to support recovery in an outpatient setting. Our programs focus on personalized counseling, practical support, and coordination with other services when needed. Learn more about our Individual Substance Use Treatment to see how focused care fits into a recovery plan.
What a Substance Abuse Counselor Does Day to Day
A substance abuse counselor in individual care conducts assessments, builds treatment plans, and provides ongoing counseling sessions. Daily work includes identifying substance use patterns, tracking progress, updating treatment data, and coordinating with case managers. Counselors document services, maintain client files, and follow practices required by licensure and applicable law.
According to research, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors advise people on a range of issues related to alcoholism, addictions, depression, and other behavioral concerns. These professionals help clients develop skills and behaviors necessary for recovery, work with clients to identify situations that interfere with treatment, and refer them to additional resources and support services. Counselors also document client progress and provide education that supports ongoing recovery and healthy decision-making.
Crisis intervention is also part of the role. Counselors respond when clients face relapse risk, emotional distress, or safety concerns. This work requires clear judgment, knowledge of resources, and the ability to respond quickly while staying within scope. Counselors also guide clients toward community assistance, recovery programs, and supportive services when needed.
Work Settings and Job Type Options
Drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs are available in outpatient clinics, residential programs, hospitals, correctional settings, schools, and workplace assistance programs. In individual care roles, counselors typically work in outpatient or community-based settings where clients attend scheduled sessions rather than living on-site. Location affects caseload size, client needs, and coordination with outside services.
Job type varies by employer. Many positions are full-time, though some programs offer part-time or hybrid roles. Employment security in this field is strong due to the ongoing demand for substance abuse treatment. Employers often seek counselors who can work within a team, follow program structure, and meet documentation and compliance standards.
Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches Used in Individual Care
Employers expect counselors to use an evidence-based curriculum grounded in accepted counseling and psychology practices. These frameworks guide how counselors provide therapy, set goals, and measure progress. Using structured methods supports consistent care and meets regulatory expectations.
Common approaches include motivational strategies, skills-focused counseling, relapse prevention planning, and coordinated care for co-occurring disorders. Counselors adapt these methods to each client while following program standards. Education and outreach are also part of treatment, helping clients and families understand substance abuse, recovery steps, and available resources.
Minimum Qualifications and Education Requirements
Minimum qualifications for drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs depend on job level and state rules. Entry-level roles may accept a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as social work, psychology, or human services. Advanced roles often require a master’s degree from an accredited college.
Education requirements usually include specific coursework in psychology, counseling, and chemical dependency. Many states require at least 30 semester units or 45 quarter units from an accredited college, with a portion focused on substance abuse topics. Employers verify education during the hiring process.
Certification, Licensure, and Verification
Most substance abuse counselor roles require certification or licensure. Counselors must obtain credentials approved by state authorities and verify completion of supervised clinical hours. Supervised experience typically ranges from 2,000 to 6,000 hours, depending on the license level.
Verification is a standard part of employment. Employers verify licensure, certification status, and work history before confirming a position. Counselors are responsible for maintaining active credentials, completing required training, and following professional standards throughout employment.
Skills Employers Look For
Employers seek counselors with strong communication and problem-solving skills. Core skills include empathy, active listening, clear guidance, and the ability to identify risk factors. Counselors must apply knowledge in real situations and respond calmly during crisis intervention.
Computer skills are also required. Counselors use electronic records, scheduling systems, and secure data platforms to document services. Being responsible with data, confidentiality, and reporting is part of daily work. Team collaboration skills matter as counselors work with case managers, supervisors, and other employees.
The Hiring Process for Counselor Jobs
The hiring process for drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs usually follows a set structure. Applicants submit an application, resume, and proof of education. Employers review minimum qualifications, conduct interviews, and request verification of licensure and certification.
During interviews, employers may ask candidates to explain how they conduct assessments, manage crises, and support recovery. Candidates should be ready to respond clearly and describe their training and experience. Offers depend on meeting credentials, background, and compliance requirements.
Pay, Benefits, and Employment Security
Pay for substance abuse counselors varies by location, education, and role. The median annual wage for drug and alcohol counselors was $59,190 in May 2024, with higher earnings for experienced or supervisory roles. Some employers offer higher salary ranges based on program scope and responsibilities.
Benefits often include packages that include health coverage, dental, and other support services. Employment security in this field remains steady due to the continued demand for treatment services. Counselors with advanced education and licensure often have more job opportunities and advancement options.
Equal Opportunity Employment Standards
Many employers list themselves as an equal opportunity employer. This means hiring and employment decisions follow applicable law and do not discriminate based on race, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or veteran status. These standards apply throughout the hiring process and ongoing employment.
Employees are expected to follow workplace policies that support inclusion and professional conduct. Counselors must treat clients and coworkers with respect and follow program guidelines. Equal opportunity practices also support a stable and ethical work environment.
How to Find and Compare Job Opportunities
Job opportunities are posted through treatment programs, community agencies, and health-related businesses. Reviewing job descriptions helps candidates understand job type, location, and required qualifications. Comparing roles involves looking at caseload expectations, supervision, and training support.
Before accepting a position, candidates should review benefits, employment terms, and expectations around crisis coverage and documentation. Understanding these factors supports better job matching and long-term commitment to the role.
Conclusion
Drug and alcohol abuse counselor jobs in individual care play a central role in substance abuse treatment and recovery support. These positions require education, certification, strong skills, and a commitment to responsible practice. Counselors provide counseling, crisis intervention, and guidance while working within structured programs that support clients with substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
At Rego Park Counseling, these roles are part of an outpatient treatment model that supports individuals and families across Queens and New York City. The site integrates substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and recovery-focused programs within a community-based setting. If you are exploring counselor jobs or seeking assistance related to substance abuse treatment services, you may contact us to learn more about available programs and employment opportunities.
FAQs
What does a drug and alcohol abuse counselor do?
A drug and alcohol abuse counselor provides counseling, conducts assessments, and develops treatment plans for clients with substance abuse and chemical dependency. The role includes individual sessions, group therapy, crisis intervention, and coordination with case managers. Counselors document services and support recovery goals.
What education is required for substance abuse counselor jobs?
Most substance abuse counselor jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Many positions, especially licensed roles, require a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or psychology. Education must come from an accredited college.
Do counselors need certification or licensure?
Yes, most states require certification or licensure for substance abuse counselors. Requirements include supervised clinical hours, passing exams, and ongoing training. Employers verify credentials during the hiring process.
Where do drug and alcohol counselors work?
Drug and alcohol counselors work in outpatient clinics, residential programs, hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, and workplace assistance programs. Individual care roles are commonly found in outpatient substance abuse treatment settings.