Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor Career

substance-abuse-counselor-5Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors help people overcome alcohol and drug addictions as well as behavioral problems. These professionals evaluate physical and mental health, recommend treatment options, and help people develop skills to recover from addiction and behavioral problems. Counselors also work with the family members of clients to help them achieve a successful recovery.

Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors educate clients about other resources and services that can be beneficial in their recovery. Many people with addiction and behavioral problems will need assistance finding a job. Referring clients to a local support group can also be helpful in the recovery process. Many counselors participate in outreach programs to help people recognize symptoms of addiction and destructive behavior.

Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor Career Snapshot

Most substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors work full time. Counselors might be required to work nights and weekends if they are employed at an inpatient facility. These professionals typically work at government agencies, outpatient and inpatient facilities, and hospitals.

Further details on a career as a substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselor are listed below (statistics from the May 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics and Onet Online):

$39,980

is the average yearly salary for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors.

22%

increase in employment between 2014 and 2024.

30%

have a Master’s degree while 19% have a Bachelor’s degree.

Education

The education requirement for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors will vary depending on the employer and position. Entry level positions might only require a high diploma and a certification. A master’s degree is required for counselors offering services in a private setting. Professional counselors are also required to be certified through the National Board for Certified Counselors.

Salaries

The average salary for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors was about $39,980 in May 2015 according to the BLS.gov. Counselors usually earn a higher salary when they work in hospitals.

Job Duties

Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors work in the mental health field to assist people with addiction and behavioral problems. Many counselors use the 12 step program approach to help clients manage stress and adopt positive behavior patterns. Counselors work with a variety of clients including teenagers, veterans, and people with disabilities.

Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors is expected to grow 22 percent from 2014 to 2024. Federal healthcare reform is making it more affordable for people to receive counseling. Drug offenders can participate in counseling services to avoid jail time.

Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor Skills & Traits

Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselor Skill Set:Required Abilities:Tools Used by Substance Abuse & Behavioral Disorder Counselors:Typical Work Activities:
• Active Listening
• Social Perceptiveness
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Reading Comprehension
• Oral Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Problem Sensitivity
• Speech Clarity
• Alcohol analysers
• Desktop/notebook computers
• Data base user interface and query software
• Email software
• Medical software
• Communicating with others
• Maintaining relationships
• Recording information
• Getting information
• Prioritizing work

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