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Substance abuse counselors help people experiencing substance use and drug addiction problems.
They provide treatment and support for people trying to overcomesubstance use disordersor addictions.
Substance abuse counselors typically work in substance abuse treatment facilities, such asoutpatient clinicsand residential treatment centers.
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They may also work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or private practice.
In the past, addiction was often regarded as a character flaw or moral failure.
This perspective has shifted significantly in recent decades.
What Does a Substance Abuse Counselor Do?
They may also provide case management services and refer clients to other resources, such assupport groupsor12-step programs.
Specific job duties often vary depending on where professionals work and the pop in of support they offer.
They often counsel individuals or groups to help people understand the factors contributing to addiction.
These professionals work with individuals who experience a range of substance use issues.
The goal is to support each person’sself-efficacyso that they feel motivated and capable of achieving their goals.
Through education, people are often inspired to enter treatment on their own.
Where Do Substance Abuse Counselors Work?
They may provide individual counseling, lead group therapy sessions, and intervene during crises.
Sometimes this may involve being on-call and working weekends, evenings, and nights.
One survey found that 71% of professionals employed in the addictions workforce held abachelor’s degreeor higher.
Substance abuse counselors may have a master’s degree or doctorate degree.
Around 48% of people working in the addictions field hold a master’s or doctorate.
However, individual requirements can vary depending on the state and the employer.
An individual’s specific educational background and experience will determine the punch in of services they can provide.
Professionals in private practice must be licensed by the state where they work.
Counselors working in residential configs tended to have fewer years of experience.
The employment sector also plays an important role in determining salary.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
American Society of Addiction Medicine.Definition of addiction.
Guilford Press; 2013.
J Subst Abuse Treat.
