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Scholarships Are Currently Available!
A Substance Abuse Counselor plays a critical role in supporting individuals facing challenges with addiction and substance use. This position involves assessing clients’ needs, developing treatment plans, and providing counseling and support throughout the recovery process. Key characteristics of a successful counselor include empathy, strong communication skills, and a non-judgmental attitude. By helping clients overcome addiction, substance abuse counselors not only transform individual lives but also contribute to healthier and stronger communities. This rewarding career offers an opportunity to make a lasting impact and is ideal for those passionate about helping others.
Salary Range
- $45,000 – $90,000/ 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 Substance Abuse Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in substance abuse treatment centers, rehabilitation facilities, or mental health organizations. Stay current with best practices in substance abuse counseling, addiction treatment strategies, and mental health protocols
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 contact: 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.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, LAs Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- Bachelor’s in Social Work | GBCNV
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Human Services | GBCNV
- Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training Program | GBCNV
- Certificate of Achievement in Human Services Program | GBCNV
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Substance Abuse and Addiction Medicine Counselor Training
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Substance Abuse Counselor Class Specification | DHHS
- What Does a Substance Abuse Counselor Do?
- What Is a Substance Abuse Counselor? What They Do
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways