What exactly is a Chemical Dependency Counselor?

You might be more familiar with the terms Substance Abuse Counselor, Drug and Alcohol Counselor or Addictions Specialist. All of these titles refer to a person who counsels people with drug and/or alcohol problems and sometimes gambling and eating disorders.

What do they do?

Chemical Dependency Counselors help people who suffer with addiction. Counseling can occur one on one between counselor and client, in groups or families.

What type of education does a Chemical Dependency Counselor have?

Counselors have a wide variety of educational backgrounds. Some counselors have a high school diploma or G.E.D. Other counselors have obtained a Certificate in Substance Abuse, while still others have bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and/or are licensed by the state in which they work.

What degrees do Chemical Dependency Counselors typically have?

The degrees that are most common in this field are psychology, behavioral health, social work, counseling and education.

What about licensing?

Some Chemical Dependency Counselors are licensed and in fact some states require it.

Any other qualifications?

Every state is different in regard to the education or licensing criteria for counselors.

Some Chemical Dependency Counselors are themselves recovering alcoholics or addicts. This makes them uniquely qualified to counsel others with substance abuse problems. Obviously this is not a requirement for the job! The most important qualifications are a desire to help others, compassion and an ability to inspire trust.

Where do they work?

Chemical Dependency Counselors can be found in hospitals, drug and alcohol rehabs, social service agencies, government offices, private or group practice, jails and prisons and doctor's offices.

Who are their clients?

Anyone with a problem with substance abuse or addiction. Remember, addiction does not discriminate and affects everyone from adolescents to seniors, housewives to executive managers. Some counselors will specialize in treating one segment of the population while others act more as generalists and treat anyone who walks in the door.

What do they get paid?

Chemical Dependency Counselors are not in it for the money. Salaries range from minimum wage up to $75,000 or more. Educational background is a dictating factor as is place of employment. Government workers typically earn the most and those working at residential care facilities sometimes earn the least.

What are the job prospects like?

The need for Chemical Dependency Counselors is expected to grow by 34% by the year 2016. This is much higher than the average for all occupations.

What about professional associations?

NAADAC (Association of Addiction Professionals) is a nationwide association. There are many state associations. More information can usually be found on a state's website.

Are there any downsides to becoming a Chemical Dependency Counselor?

Yes. Unfortunately, burnout is a real problem for counselors. Many professionals work long hours with low pay and frequently deal with people in crisis in high stress or volatile situations. Counselors now are being taught the importance of self care which will hopefully help reduce the burnout rates for those working in the addictions field.

Anything else I should know?

Working as a Chemical Dependency Counselor is a tough, but extremely rewarding job. If you are interested in this field the first step you should take is to find out what your state's educational requirements are and if there are any additional requirements for certification and/or licensure.