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Addictions Counselor
As an important member of the rehabilitation treatment program team, you work with psychologists, social workers, doctors, and registered nurses to help people who are dependent on alcohol or drugs or who suffer from other addictions such as eating disorders or gambling. You may also deal with related issues such as disability or employment needs, school problems, and trauma. As a counselor, you help people identify and change behaviors and recognize and resolve problems related to their addiction.
Your opportunities in this career include counseling, rehabilitation, and support services. Some Addictions Counselors specialize and work only with one type of addition, such as alcoholism. Other Addictions Counselors do crisis counseling, daily, weekly, drop-in counseling, or conduct community outreach programs aimed at prevention and education. Work can be done with individuals or groups along with families who are affected by their loved ones’ addictions.
Your studies at Baker will help you gain all the knowledge and skills you need to transform your desire to help people into a satisfying career. Our class sizes are small, so you’ll have a lot of one-on-one time with instructors. With the specialized field-based training that is part of our curriculum, you’ll be well-prepared to begin a challenging and fulfilling career as soon as you graduate.
Career Facts
- The average annual salary for Addictions Counselors is $40,420.
- Job growth varies by specialty, but overall, employment should grow 21 percent from 2008-2018 — much faster than average.
- Education and training requirements vary by state and specialty. A master’s degree is required to become a licensed counselor.
- Opportunities exist in schools, private practice, community health organizations, day treatment programs, hospitals, drug courts, and other public and private agencies.
- Addictions Counselors may work full- or part-time. Some are required to be on-call during weekends.
- Strong management skills combined with work experience in health care give you the best career opportunities.
- Advancement is often through promotion to a more responsible position. You may also move to a larger facility or work as a consultant.
Programs
Visit our Programs section for more information
Want to get the ball rolling?
Everything about our college is aimed at getting you the job you want in the shortest time possible — from our affordable tuition, to how we choose our programs, to our small class sizes, and flexible class schedules.
Discover what Baker can do for your future. Schedule a visit or enroll online today.
