How Do I Become an Addictions Counselor?

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Updated February 22, 2024 · 4 Min Read

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Addictions counselor listening to client Credit: Tanja Ivanova / Moment / Getty Images

As more people with substance use disorders seek out treatment, jobs for addictions counselors continue to rise. While the requirements for becoming an addictions counselor vary by state, you need specialized training to enter this field.

Check out our guide to learn more about what these professionals do and what kind of education, certification, and experience you need.

Popular Online Addiction Counseling Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

What Do Addictions Counselors Do?

Addictions counselors work with individuals who need treatment for substance use disorders. They use techniques such as group therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and family counseling models. They also support clients’ families and friends and collaborate with other healthcare and rehabilitation providers to connect their clients with services.

Depending on the position, typical duties include providing treatment plans, referrals for resources such as medical care or employment services, crisis intervention, and case management documentation.

As the demand continues, addictions counselors can find employment opportunities in a variety of settings. In addition to hospitals, outpatient clinics, and residential rehabilitation facilities, addictions counselors may work in correctional facilities, school treatment and prevention programs, and private practice.

Key Skills for an Addictions Counselor

  • Good written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to balance empathy with objectivity when assessing and treating clients
  • Cultural competencies to work with diverse populations
  • Ability to apply appropriate techniques to meet specific needs of clients, including those in denial about their substance use disorder or those resistant to behavioral change
  • Ability to handle stress and achieve life/work balance

Education Required to Become an Addictions Counselor

Each state and employer establishes its own requirements for addictions counselors. In most states, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field. Some states require a master’s degree to enter into private practice or obtain certification or licensure.

After you complete your degree and before you can apply to practice in your state, you must pass a certification exam and complete a practical experience under the supervision of a licensed counselor.

Practical Experience Requirements for an Addictions Counselor

Real-world clinical experience is essential for acquiring licensure, certification, and employment. You can complete your field placements in many settings, including outpatient mental health centers, residential rehabilitation clinics, prisons and juvenile detention facilities, and hospitals.

Most undergraduate counseling degrees require approximately 150-400 hours of supervised practicum and/or internship placements. In an internship, students assume most of the responsibilities associated with a professional counseling position, while students in a practicum observe or participate in a more limited way.

After completing your degree, you will have to complete several more hours of clinical experiences depending on your state licensure requirements and/or desired certification. For example, the popular National Certified Addiction Counselor credential requires a minimum of 6,000 hours of clinical experience.

Addictions Counselor Licensure and Certification

Most state licensing boards require licensure or certification for addictions counselors. Each state has its own terminology and establishes accepted credentials and educational qualifications. Some states “license” addiction counselors while others “certify” these counselors. Both terms generally mean that the addiction counselor is qualified to practice in the state.

Depending on the state, candidates for addiction counselor licensure or certification must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree, complete a specific number of clinical hours, and pass an exam that measures the competencies needed to become an alcohol or drug counselor.

If you are interested in advancing your employment prospects, you can pursue an optional certification that focuses on a specific client population or area of practice. Several organizations offer specialized certifications for addictions counselors:

National Board for Certified Counselors

Addictions Counselor Salary and Growth Projections

Addictions counseling can offer a personally fulfilling career and expanding employment opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the demand for addiction counselors to grow by 18% from 2022-2032, making it one of the fastest growing careers in the nation. In May 2022, the median annual wage for addictions counselors was $49,710.

Compensation depends on several factors, such as work experience, education, and location. The highest paid 10%, which includes counselors with advanced degrees and job experience, make more than $82,000 a year. Addiction counselors earn the highest in New York, California, and New Jersey with salaries ranging from $79,000-$93,000 a year.

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming an Addictions Counselor

What degree is best for an addiction counselor?

In most states, the minimum educational requirement to become an addiction counselor is a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Some schools offer specialized addiction programs. A master's degree is typically required for licensure and private practice and can broaden your career options.

How much does an addiction counselor earn in the U.S.?

According to the BLS, substance use counselors earn a median annual salary of $49,710. The lowest-paid counselors earned less than $34,580, while the highest 10% earned more than $82,710. Earning a graduate degree, gaining work experience, or changing employment settings can positively impact your salary prospects.

How do I become an addiction counselor in my state?

Because each state licensing board determines its own requirements for addiction counselors, you should always research the minimum degree, experiential learning, and licensing requirements for the state where you intend to practice. Some states may require a master's for licensure or specialized certifications for the type of practice you want to enter.

How long does it take to become an addiction counselor?

A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete if you attend full-time. A master's generally requires an additional two years of study. Before entering the field, you must pass a certification exam and complete clinical experience hours required for licensure.

Page last reviewed on February 12, 2024

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