Substance Abuse Counselor salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Substance Abuse Counselor in United States is approximately 42,604 USD (42,447 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Substance Abuse Counselor do?

A substance abuse counselor is a professional who provides support and guidance to individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Their primary role is to help clients overcome their substance abuse issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Substance abuse counselors conduct one-on-one counseling sessions, group therapy sessions, and educational programs to assist clients in understanding the root causes of their addiction and developing strategies for recovery. They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to create personalized treatment plans and monitor the progress of their clients. Additionally, substance abuse counselors may provide referrals to support groups and community resources to enhance long-term recovery. This occupation requires excellent communication and listening skills, empathy, and a strong understanding of addiction and mental health issues.

Skills: Substance abuse counselor, Addiction counselor, Drug and alcohol counselor, Recovery support specialist, Behavioral health therapist, Substance abuse treatment provider
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Substance Abuse Counselor make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Substance Abuse Counselor a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Substance Abuse Counselor is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Substance Abuse Counselor might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Substance Abuse Counselor?

High salary for Substance Abuse Counselor would be somewhere between 46,864 USD and 61,776 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Substance Abuse Counselor in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 42,604 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,550 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 819 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 20 USD per hour
By working as Substance Abuse Counselor a person can save up to 1,257 USD per month or 15,087 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Substance Abuse Counselor

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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