Addiction and Recovery Careers
Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.
- An addiction and recovery career offers job opportunities, job security, and a fulfilling experience in helping individuals overcome substance use.
- The field is expected to grow significantly in the next decade, with a projected job growth of 18% between 2022-2032.
- There are various career paths within addiction and recovery, including roles such as substance use counselor, addiction therapist, and clinical rehabilitation specialist.
- Online programs offer a flexible and accessible way to obtain a degree in addiction and recovery.
Are you looking for a fulfilling career that makes a positive impact on people’s lives? Consider a career in addiction and recovery.
This field offers a variety of opportunities in areas such as substance use counseling, addiction therapy, and clinical rehabilitation.
With a degree in addiction and recovery and state licensure or certification, you can work in a range of settings to help individuals overcome substance use. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of pursuing a career in addiction and recovery and the job outlook for professionals in this field.
Why Pursue a Career in Addiction and Recovery?
A career in addiction and recovery is a rewarding choice for those who want to make a positive difference in people’s lives. The field is growing at an impressive rate, with many job opportunities and a degree of job security.
You will witness profound transformations in people’s lives as they overcome substance use and enhance their quality of life. Further education and specialization can also open the door to advancement and increased income.
Addiction and Recovery Career Paths
Pursuing a degree in addiction and recovery opens up a variety of career paths. Here are some potential fields of employment:
Substance Use Counseling
You will work directly with individuals addicted to drugs or alcohol, offering personal or group therapy and consulting with the family members of clients. You’ll be skilled in identifying, assessing, and addressing addiction. You’ll also learn to discover the root causes of addictive behaviors.
Addiction Therapy
As an addiction therapist, you’ll work in a clinical setting helping individuals understand their addiction and developing tailored treatment strategies. This role often involves close work with other healthcare professionals to provide a holistic approach to treatment.
Clinical Rehabilitation
In a clinical rehabilitation role, you’ll offer specialized medical care in either inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation centers. This can involve working with patients to develop personalized treatment plans, monitor progress, and adjust treatment strategies as needed.
Addiction Treatment Care
As an addiction treatment caregiver, you’ll ensure that patients in treatment centers adhere to guidelines and progress on their path to recovery. This can involve everything from administering medication to providing emotional support.
Nutrition Services
As a nutritionist or dietitian, you can work in treatment centers or clinics to help individuals with addiction improve their diets throughout their recovery journey. A balanced diet can play a crucial role in recovery, helping to repair physical damage caused by addiction and boosting overall health.
Popular Online Addiction and Recovery Programs
Online programs offer an accessible and flexible option for those pursuing a degree in addiction and recovery. These programs offer the same rigorous coursework as traditional on-campus programs but with the added convenience of allowing you to complete coursework from anywhere with an internet connection. However, you will still likely have to complete an internship or clinical practice hours in person.
Skills Gained With an Addiction and Recovery Degree
An addiction and recovery degree provides a comprehensive set of skills that are critical in addressing substance use and related mental health issues, including:
Case Management
Students learn to coordinate resources for patient aid. This skill is crucial in ensuring that patients receive the necessary care and support throughout their recovery journey.Diagnosis and Intake
This skill involves learning to identify signs of drug misuse and determining suitability for various programs. Accurate diagnosis and intake are key first steps in developing a suitable treatment plan for individuals struggling with substance use.Assessment and Treatment Planning
Students learn to compile a client’s history, use assessment instruments, and formulate treatment strategies. Creating effective treatment plans is crucial for guiding individuals through their recovery journey.Crisis Intervention
This skill equips students to handle severe distress or trauma in clients. Being able to effectively intervene in a crisis can be a critical turning point in a person’s recovery.
Addiction and Recovery Career Outlook
The addiction and recovery field is anticipated to grow significantly over the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that employment opportunities for substance use, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will rise by 18% between 2022 and 2032, driven by the rising opioid epidemic in the United States.
The median salary for substance use and mental health counselors was $53,710 as of May 2023, according to the BLS. The top 10% of earners made a median of $82,710. Workers with more experience and education can often command higher salaries.
Where Can You Work as an Addiction and Recovery Professional?
Addiction and recovery professionals can find employment across a variety of settings. Here are some common industries where these professionals work:
Outpatient Care Centers
Outpatient care centers provide treatment services to patients who do not require overnight hospitalization. These facilities often offer flexible schedules and a variety of treatment programs.Individual and Family Services
Agencies providing individual and family services employ addiction and recovery professionals to support clients who are struggling with substance use. These professionals may work as counselors, therapists, or case managers.Residential Rehabilitation Facilities
Residential facilities offer comprehensive care for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders. Addiction and recovery professionals working in these settings provide personalized treatment plans and support for residents.Offices of Other Health Practitioners
Addiction and recovery professionals can work in clinics with doctors, therapists, and psychologists to create a holistic approach to patient care.Local Government
Local government agencies often employ addiction and recovery professionals to provide community-based services. These professionals may work as counselors, social workers, or program managers.
How to Start Your Career in Addiction and Recovery
Starting your career in addiction and recovery begins with earning a degree in addiction counseling, psychology, or social work. Depending on your career goals, you may have to go beyond a bachelor’s-level education and earn a master’s or doctoral degree.
Depending on your chosen career path, you may need to earn state licensure or certification to practice. This could involve completing fieldwork or clinical hours. You can also gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Remember, the pathway to a career in addiction and recovery can vary greatly depending on your individual goals, interests, and circumstances.
Resources for Addiction and Recovery Professionals
There are numerous resources available to assist addiction and recovery professionals in their professional journey. Here are some key resources:
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations for addiction and recovery professionals offer networking opportunities, professional development, and access to resources.
Association for Addiction Professionals
NAADAC is a leading organization for addiction professionals, offering education, advocacy, and resources to enhance the quality of addiction treatment and support individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
International Association of Addictions and Offender Counselors
IAAOC is a division of the American Counseling Association that focuses on supporting counselors working with individuals dealing with addiction and criminal justice involvement. They provide training, research, and advocacy to improve outcomes for these populations.
National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers
NAATP is a membership organization representing addiction treatment providers across the United States. They advocate for quality care, ethical practices, and evidence-based treatment approaches in addiction treatment.
Publications
Publications can provide valuable insights into current trends, research, and best practices in the field. Some recommended publications include
Advances in Addiction & Recovery
The official publication of NAADAC, this publication focuses on the latest research, trends, and addiction treatment and recovery developments. It offers insights into evidence-based practices, innovative therapies, and strategies for addressing substance use disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sometimes called substance use counselors, addiction and recovery counselors earn a median annual salary of $49,710. Factors like education, experience, certifications, and work setting can affect how much you earn.
The lowest 10% of earners make less than $34,580, and the highest 10% of earners earn more than $82,710.
Explore More College Resources
Student Drug Use and Misuse in College
As drug use in college continues to rise, respondents revealed what, how, and why they are using.
Updated December 12, 2022
How to Become an Addiction Counselor
Discover the role and responsibilities of an addiction counselor, the steps to becoming one, and the salary outlook for this growing field.
Updated March 1, 2024
An Interview with an Addiction Counselor: Dr. Holly Sawyer
A professional addiction counselor describes her business and discusses life in the field.
Updated May 29, 2019
View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.