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Alcohol and Drug Counselor

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Scholarships Available – Apply Now!

An Alcohol and Drug Counselor plays a crucial role in society by helping individuals overcome substance abuse and addiction. They provide support, guidance, and treatment plans to those struggling with alcohol and drug dependency, aiming to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Key characteristics include empathy, patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to build trust with clients. They must be compassionate and non-judgmental, providing a safe and supportive environment for clients to share their struggles.  They have the opportunity to collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for their clients. They help reduce the negative impacts of addiction on individuals, families, and communities, promoting healthier and more productive lives.

Salary Range

  • $53,000 – $122,000/ year

Education & Timeframe

  • Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
  • Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
  • Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in rehabilitation centers, substance abuse treatment facilities, or community health organizations. Stay current with addiction counseling techniques, recovery strategies, and relevant ethical guidelines.

Scholarship Opportunities

  • The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org.
  • The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
  • The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.

Academic Institutions

Additional Information

Career Choices & Growth

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