Job Outlook For Addiction Counselors
The job outlook for addiction counselors is outstanding. There will be 22% job growth in the field through 2028, according to BLS. Employment growth will occur as more people want addiction and mental health treatments.
Also, the demand for addiction counselors should rise because states are trying to get more treatment and counseling for drug offenders instead of years in jail.
The criminal justice system has seen that substance abuse addictions are not as likely to re-offend if they get treatment for their addictions. Many drug sentences require the offender to get therapy and counseling for their problem. If they do not, they can be sent back to jail. Research has shown that addiction treatment programs can be more cost-effective than putting people in jail. States may use substance abuse treatment programs as a way to prevent people from re-offending.
Rehabilitation counselors will see 10% job growth through 2028, which is faster than average. Demand for these counseling professionals will grow with the growing elderly population, and with the additional rehabilitation needs of many groups, such as war veterans and people with various disabilities.
Where You Work Has A Big Impact On Counselor Salary
You already understand that the average cost of living varies from state to state and town to town. That has an impact on what people get paid in every type of job, including as counselors.
You can see some of those geographic impacts by looking at the differences in a set of representative states below:
- School and career counselors – $81,350
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary And Job Growth
TheBureau of Labor Statistics , projects the need for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors to rise 22% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than other industries. These professions grow as people continue to seek help for addictions. Substance abuse counselors earned a median annual salary of $46,240 in 2019.
Salary varies based on geographical region. Local governments often offer incentives, like federal loan forgiveness, to counselors who work in high-need areas. Certain employers, like federal prisons, often pay more to attract a competitive job pool.
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Discover Your Program In Minutes
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, substance abuse costs Americans $740 billion each year due to crime, healthcare, and decreased productivity. This issue also costs human lives. Society needs qualified substance abuse counselors to help individuals cope with addiction.
Becoming a qualified substance abuse counselor with a doctorate takes up to a decade of higher education and requires sincere commitment. Compassionate individuals who enjoy problem-solving and active listening typically thrive in this role. Keep reading to learn how to become a substance abuse counselor.
Find A Substance Abuse Counselor Program Today
GetEducated offers pertinent information about online degrees available to those seeking entry into new careers, professional transitions, and any credential that can push adults forward in todays competitive marketplace. Click the link below to start your search for online substance abuse counseling degrees!
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How To Find A Job
Certifications, high-level degrees, continued education, letters of recommendation from professors and valuable internship experiences help candidates stand out in the job market. Speaking with professors and attending conferences can help graduates build a network of potential employers.
Online job boards and listings specifically for addiction counselors provide a multitude of opportunities. There is also a growing number of telehealth opportunities that allow counselors to provide online counseling services.
About Addiction Specialists
How Much Money Does A Drug Counselor Make
Related
Drug counselors, sometimes knowns as addiction or substance abuse counselors, specialize in providing treatment and support to individuals who are living with substance abuse problems. Qualifications and average salaries for drug counselors vary and depend on the type of licensing and certification that the counselor holds, as well as the setting in which she practices.
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Drug Counselor Education Requirements
According to the BLS and O*Net Online, educational requirements for drug counselors vary by state as well as by the types of services that the counselor provides. Some drug counselors hold advanced degrees and professional licensure while others may only hold a high school diploma or GED. Required education and licensing depend on state regulations as well as the degree of supervision under which the counselor practices.
The level of education required to become a drug counselor is set by state licensing boards and often depends on the type of counseling provided, as well as the level of supervision that the counselor must have while practicing. According the the BLS, all drug counselors who operate a private practice in offering counseling must hold at least a masters degree and professional licensing as a mental health professional.
Substance abuse counselors who work in institutional settings under the supervision of mental health or medical professionals, on the other hand, arent held to such strict credentialing standards. Degree options vary, with some counselors holding associate or bachelors degrees. Some counselors may be able to obtain certification or licensure without earning a degree after completing college-level courses specified by state rules.
How Much Does A Child Counsellor Earn Uk
Psychotherapist trainees can earn £30,401 to £37,267 . Qualified child and adolescent psychotherapists can expect salaries in the region of £37,570 to £43,772 . Principal psychotherapists will be paid at Band 8 of the NHS pay scale, starting at £44,606 and rising to £86,687 for the most senior posts.
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School Counselor Salary And Projected Job Growth
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual salary of $56,310 per year in 2018 for school and career counselors. Employment in this field is expected to grow 23 percent through 2026, which is much faster than average compared to all occupations.3 School enrollment through 2027 is projected to increase 3 percent, driving the need for school counselors.4
The top-paying industries for school, educational, guidance and vocational counselors are:5
- Federal executive branch: $71,690 annual mean wage
- Computer systems design: $70,990 annual mean wage
- Elementary and secondary schools: $66,910 annual mean wage
- General medical and surgical hospitals: $69,170 annual mean wage
- Office administrative services: $65,110 annual mean wage
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Masters Degree Programs In Substance Abuse
Masterâs degree programs in substance abuse counseling prepare students in the psychology of addiction and the techniques that help patients overcome the emotional and mental health issues that can impede recovery. In addition to courses in substance abuse, masterâs programs may also cover behavioral addictions such as shopping addiction and eating disorders. Courses can include the biology of addiction, addiction evaluation and treatment, psychopathology, cognitive neuroscience and substance abuse counseling.
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What Is Your Career Choice Salary Earning Potential
A substance abuse counselor is a type of mental health counselor who treats patients suffering from drug or alcohol dependency. Substance abuse counselors work with individuals who are concerned they are abusing drugs and alcohol in a way that might lead to addiction. Mental health professionals in substance abuse counselor jobs will work with both the chemically dependent client and their family to find coping strategies and plans of action to foster success for everyone. Family involvement can be an important part of the recovery and healing process. Substance abuse counselor jobs are increasingly in demand and they are expected to continue to be so through 2026. This makes the choice to become a substance abuse counselor a wise one. People who enjoy helping others and have patience often make ideal substance abuse counselors.
You can get a bachelorâs degree or masters degree in substance use or another related field. You can get an associates degree in substance abuse within two years. With this degree you can treat substance use but it will be much easier to find a substance use job with a bachelorâs degree or masters degree. If you would like to pursue social work, you will need at least a bachelorâs degree. Social work requires clinical experience in conjunction with your degree. Most people that open a private practice obtain a masters degree or above.
Career Information For Substance Abuse Counselors
Substance abuse counselors may treat patients in a group setting or in private sessions. Counselors develop treatment plans to help patients overcome substance abuse and addiction disorders. Treatment includes helping patients develop the skills needed for recovery. Substance abuse counselors also work with the families of patients to help them understand addictive behavior. The BLS predicts employment for substance abuse counselors will increase by 27 percent through 2020.
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S To Become A Substance Abuse Counselor
The following list outlines general steps for how to become a substance abuse counselor, but readers should note that requirements vary by state.
GRADUATE FROM HIGH SCHOOL
All states require substance abuse counselors to hold a high school diploma or higher. While in high school, aspiring counselors can prepare for their careers by volunteering with crisis centers, community organizations, or faith communities.
EARN THE REQUIRED DEGREE
In most states, counselling or psychology degrees qualify graduates to become substance abuse counselors. However, each state determines its minimum required education level. Most states require at least a bachelors degree.
COMPLETE ALL REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE LICENSURE
These requirements can include supervised work hours or state-specific training. The Addiction Technology Transfer Center Network provides a list of state requirements. Substance abuse counselors who work in private practice must hold licensure with the National Board for Certified Counselors.
EARN INDUSTRY CERTIFICATIONS
Counseling professionals can advance their careers by pursuing certification as adolescent addictions counselors, peer recovery support specialists, or master addictions counselors.
Addiction Counselor Salary Information
Bureau of Labor Statistics
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median salary for substance abuse counselors was $44,600 in May 2018. The top 10% earned more than $72,900. Addiction counselors with more education and experience will earn higher salaries.
The top industries, in terms of pay for addiction counselors, are:
- Government: $51,690
- Individual and family services: $44,100
- Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers: $43,100
- Residential mental health and substance abuse facilities: $38,190
A related field to addiction counseling is rehabilitation counseling. These professionals help patients with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities to live independent lives. They work with the patient to manage any social, personal, or psychological effects of disabilities on living independently or on employment.
The median wage for rehabilitation counselors in May 2018 was $35,600, and the top 10% earned $63,800. Top industries in terms of pay were:
- State government, excluding education and hospitals: $51,300
- Individual and family services: $33,300
- Nursing and residential care facilities: $31,600
- Community and vocational rehabilitation services: $31,200
Payscale.com
Payscale.com reports the average salary for addiction counselors is $40,050, with a range between $30,000 and $54,000.
Your income also can vary based on the city in which you live:
| Ziprecruiter.com June, 2020 |
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Substance Abuse Counselor Certification
All 50 states and the District of Columbia have some form of counselor licensing that governs the practice of mental health counseling.
Explore requirements for the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor credential in your state. The Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist credential is appropriate for counselors looking to specialize in family therapy.
In California, for example, more than one type of licensing might be needed to engage in substance abuse counseling. Visit the California Board of Behavioral Sciences website for an alphabet soup of licensing options.
Most states require counselors to take state board licensing exams like the National Counseling Exam or the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination to become a licensed professional counselor. You must also complete a certain number of counseling hours and pass written and oral exams. Felony and other background checks are required.
Mental health counselors may also elect to be certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors . This national agency grants a general practice credential, the Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor . The CCMHC is widely recognized nationwide and may be required by some employers.
Addiction Counselor Salary In Illinois
How much does an Addiction Counselor make in Illinois? The average Addiction Counselor salary in Illinois is $56,900 as of December 27, 2021, but the range typically falls between $50,200 and $63,800. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
| Percentile |
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What Is The Earning Potential For Counselors In Private Practice
If youre interested in opening your own practice, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Private practice gives you the freedom to choose who you work with and how often. Private practice can also be lucrative if its done properly. However, there are some costs to consider before opening your own practice:
Costs to Consider
Licensing Fees: Before you open your practice, youll need to research the laws in your state. There are specific laws for owning your business. Youll likely have to obtain a business license from the city you live in and renew it annually.Client Base: Youll also need to generate business in order to be profitable. The more clients you have, the more money youll likely make. In order to generate business, youll need to put forth money towards marketing effortsOverhead: Some of the expenses needed to operate a private practice include: office space the cost of utilities and furnishings, office supplies, additional staff, if necessary, and the price of medical, dental, and liability insurance.
The risks associated with private practice are not for everyone. Thats why its important to know the facts. It may be helpful to talk to a fellow clinician in private practice to learn more about the pros and cons. Fluctuating income can be challenging for counselors who have other expenses. However, if youre willing to put in the work and have the resources to do so, private practice can be incredibly rewarding.
Counseling Psychologist Salary Information
One of the best data sources for psychologist salary information is the Bureau of Labor Statistics or BLS. This official government source states the median salary for all psychologists was $79,000 in 2018. The top 10% earned $129,200, which generally requires a Psychology doctoral degree and many years of counseling work experience. For counseling psychologists, the reported salary is $76,990.
Also, median annual salaries for all psychologists were:
- All other psychologists: $100,700
- Elementary and secondary schools: $75,800
APA.org
APA reports the median salary for all psychologists in a 2015 survey was $85,000. Counseling psychologists also had a median salary of $85,000. Psychologists with a Ph.D. had an $85,000 salary, while holders of a Psy.D. earned a median of $75,000.
APA also states that psychologists in professional services earn $85,000, while those in research positions earn $95,000. Psychologists in management positions earn $110,000.
Payscale.com
Payscale.com reports the average salary for counseling psychologists is $56,774, with a range of $34,000 to $88,000.
This website also states the following differences in pay for counseling psychologists by city:
- Los Angeles: +23%
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What Influences A Salary
The salary of an Addiction Counselor is determined by a number of factors, including education, experience, and job location. In this article, we will take a closer look at how these factors impact salary.
Years of experience
Salary increases are generally tied to your experience level. In general, the more years you spend working as an addiction counselor, the more you can expect to earn. Heres how experience can impact your addiction counselor salary, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the National Compensation Survey.
| Level of experience |
|---|
| $266,474 |
Counselor Salary Is Affected By Who You Work For
Finally, your salary as a counselor will be determined by the industry you choose to work in. This is influenced by your specialization, but its not quite the same thing. A substance abuse treatment specialist working directly for a government agency, for example, earned a counselor salary of $54,070 in 2020, well above the overall average for the profession. At the same time, one employed by a residential treatment facility earned just over $40,000, or substantially less than average.
The top three industries by counselor salary level for each category are:
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors
- Government – $54,070
- Individual and family services – $47,580
Becoming a licensed counselor is a big boost for your salary prospects, of course. Each state has different requirements and titles for the different types of counselors. You will have to check with your state licensing board to find out what kind of education, post-graduate training, and what tests you might need to pass in order to practice. Each state may also have different rules about what kind of activities require a license in the first place.
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