Substance abuse counselors help those addicted to alcohol, drugs, gambling and other vices through their rehabilitation and recovery in either individual or group settings. Substance abuse counselors must be a constant, dependable source of compassionate, nonjudgmental support. Learn how to become a substance abuse counselor with our guide.

Substance abuse counselors help individuals with addictions to drugs and alcohol, and also with addictions to gambling and other destructive vices. They help addicts through their rehabilitation and recovery by identifying problem behaviors and their underlying causes.

Substance abuse counselors may operate in private or group settings, and may also be asked to intervene in a crisis. To be successful, substance abuse counselors should be compassionate, emotionally strong, and dedicated to helping troubled individuals.

• To become a substance abuse counselor, you'll need to acquire a B.A. degree from a four-year university at the very least. You will want to major in a related field, such as:

1. Psychology.
2. Social work.
3. Nursing.
4. Counseling.
5. Rehabilitation services.

• Next you will need at least two years of professional or personal experience in counseling (or a related field). Relevant experience may include:

1. Volunteer work.
   • Try volunteering at an addiction rehabilitation center to get an idea of what substance abuse counseling will be like.
   • You can also volunteer at a hospital.
2. Interning at a mental health clinic.
3. Working in any type of counseling position.
4. Prior personal substance abuse experience may also be applicable.

• Certification requirements for substance abuse counseling will vary from state to state. Also, substance abuse counseling certification differs from other counseling certification guidelines because substance abuse counselors are governed under a separate agency. Usually certification for substance abuse counseling is not mandatory, but you'll still want to research your state's requirements to be on the safe side. For more information, contact your local Certification Board for Addiction Professionals.

• The average salary for a substance abuse counselor ranges from $18,000 to $50,000 a year. Positions are available in a variety of facilities, including health care facilities, addiction rehabilitation and treatment centers, correctional facilities, halfway houses and therapeutic communities.

• Substance abuse counselors have a high burnout rate due to the emotionally taxing nature of the job, so the demand is high for qualified counselors. When looking for a job, you may want to contact:

1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
2. National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC).

• Being a substance abuse counselor is a challenging yet fulfilling career that requires a high degree of commitment from the counselor. You may also be interested in learning about other counseling fields such as grief counseling, Christian counseling and career counseling.

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• Introduction
• Step 1: Get a Four-Year Degree
• Step 2: Acquire Counseling Experience
• Step 3: Certification
• Step 4: Employment
• Conclusion