How much does a Substance Abuse Counselor make?
Substance Abuse Counselors play a vital role in helping people overcome addiction. They work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. The average yearly salary for a Substance Abuse Counselor is around $55,106. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of employer. Counselors with more experience often earn higher salaries.
The salary range for Substance Abuse Counselors can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $37,000 per year. The highest 10% earn more than $85,000 annually. Most counselors fall somewhere in the middle of this range. Factors like education, certifications, and the specific needs of the community can also affect earnings. This career offers a stable income and the chance to make a real difference in people's lives.
What are the highest paying cities for a Substance Abuse Counselor?

-
Pueblo, CO
Average Salary: $84,098
In Pueblo, CO, professionals in this field work with individuals facing addiction challenges. They provide support and treatment plans. Pueblo Behavioral Health offers many opportunities in this area.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Pueblo, CO
-
Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $70,105
Las Vegas, NV, offers a dynamic environment for those helping others overcome addiction. The city's diverse population presents unique challenges and opportunities. Companies like Desert Hope Treatment Center are prominent in this field.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Las Vegas, NV
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $69,310
Seattle, WA, provides a supportive community for those in recovery. Counselors work in various settings, from clinics to private practices. Organizations like The Center for Counseling and Health offer many positions.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $67,375
Santa Rosa, CA, is known for its strong community support for addiction recovery. Counselors here play a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their lives. Local nonprofits like Redwood Empire Council provide many job opportunities.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $67,067
In Washington, DC, professionals in this field work with a diverse population. They provide essential services to those struggling with addiction. Organizations like The Hope House offer many positions in this area.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Washington, DC
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $66,707
Minneapolis, MN, offers a range of opportunities for those helping others with addiction. The city's healthcare system supports many programs. Companies like Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation provide many job openings.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $65,467
Rochester, MN, is home to top-notch healthcare facilities. Counselors here work in a supportive environment. Mayo Clinic offers many opportunities for those in this field.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, MN
-
Tulsa, OK
Average Salary: $65,267
Tulsa, OK, provides a welcoming environment for addiction recovery. Counselors work with individuals to develop personalized treatment plans. Local organizations like The Park Center offer many job opportunities.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Tulsa, OK
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $64,713
Denver, CO, offers a vibrant community for those in recovery. Counselors here provide essential support and treatment. Companies like Denver Health Medical Center offer many positions in this field.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Denver, CO
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $64,560
Anchorage, AK, provides a unique setting for addiction recovery. Counselors work with individuals to overcome challenges. Local nonprofits like Alaska Behavioral Health offer many job opportunities.
Find Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Anchorage, AK
What are the best companies a Substance Abuse Counselor can work for?

-
Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $98,281
Kaiser Permanente offers rewarding Substance Abuse Counselor jobs. They provide comprehensive care in many locations across the United States. Their programs focus on holistic treatment and support for individuals struggling with addiction.
-
U.S. Marine Corps
Average Salary: $77,731
The U.S. Marine Corps provides Substance Abuse Counselor positions with competitive pay. They offer a chance to serve your country while helping others. Locations include bases across the U.S. and around the world.
-
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation
Average Salary: $77,000
Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is a leading provider of addiction treatment. They offer Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a focus on evidence-based care. Their facilities are located in Minnesota, California, Oregon, and Florida.
-
New York State Office of Mental Health
Average Salary: $72,189
The New York State Office of Mental Health provides Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a strong focus on community care. They operate in various locations throughout New York State, offering diverse opportunities for counselors.
-
State of Nevada
Average Salary: $71,253
The State of Nevada offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a focus on public health. They operate in multiple locations across the state, providing essential services to those in need.
-
Red River Recovery Center
Average Salary: $68,541
Red River Recovery Center provides Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a focus on personalized treatment. They operate in Oklahoma, offering a supportive environment for both counselors and clients.
-
Wellpath
Average Salary: $68,056
Wellpath offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a focus on correctional health care. They operate in various states, providing critical services to individuals in the justice system.
-
Recovery Centers of America
Average Salary: $66,721
Recovery Centers of America provides Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a focus on comprehensive treatment. They operate in multiple states, offering a range of services to support recovery.
-
Bridging Access to Care
Average Salary: $65,564
Bridging Access to Care offers Substance Abuse Counselor positions with a focus on community-based care. They operate in various locations, providing essential services to those in need.
-
Stewards of Recovery
Average Salary: $65,000
Stewards of Recovery provides Substance Abuse Counselor jobs with a focus on personalized treatment. They operate in multiple states, offering a supportive environment for both counselors and clients.
How to earn more as a Substance Abuse Counselor?
Substance Abuse Counselors play a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction. To earn more in this rewarding field, consider the following factors. Each one can help increase your earning potential. Understanding these factors can guide you in making informed career decisions.
Firstly, gaining more experience and expertise can lead to higher pay. Employers often value seasoned counselors who have a proven track record. Additionally, obtaining advanced certifications can boost your salary. These credentials demonstrate a higher level of knowledge and skill. Networking with other professionals in the field can also open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help you connect with others. Another factor is choosing to work in a high-demand area. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of counselors often offer higher wages. Finally, consider specializing in a niche area, such as working with adolescents or veterans. Specialization can make you more valuable to employers and lead to higher pay.
Investing in your career by focusing on these factors can lead to increased earnings. Each step you take towards professional growth can make a significant difference in your salary.
- Gain more experience and expertise.
- Obtain advanced certifications.
- Network with other professionals.
- Choose to work in a high-demand area.
- Specialize in a niche area.