Dreambound
Blog

How to Become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Mississippi

htba_Drug and Alcohol Counselor_in_Mississippi

Want personalized insights?

Let Skipper help you discover new career pathways

coach

What is a Drug and Alcohol Counselor?

A drug and alcohol counselor is a professional who provides support and guidance to individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. They help clients develop coping mechanisms, set goals for recovery, and navigate the challenges of addiction. Counselors also work with clients' families to educate them about addiction and provide support.

Responsibilities of a drug and alcohol counselor include:

  • Conducting assessments to determine the severity of addiction
  • Developing personalized treatment plans for clients
  • Conducting individual and group counseling sessions
  • Monitoring clients' progress and adjusting treatment plans accordingly
  • Providing crisis intervention and support during relapses
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care

3. Search Online Job Boards

Online job boards, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and CareerBuilder, are great resources for finding job openings in the field of drug and alcohol counseling. Use relevant keywords, such as "drug and alcohol counselor" or "substance abuse counselor," to narrow down your search and find positions that match your qualifications.

4. Apply to Treatment Centers and Rehabilitation Facilities

Treatment centers and rehabilitation facilities are often in need of qualified drug and alcohol counselors. Research local treatment centers and rehabilitation facilities in your area and reach out to them directly to inquire about job openings. Many facilities also have job postings on their websites, so be sure to check their career pages regularly.

5. Consider Specializing in a Specific Population

While not required, specializing in a specific population can greatly increase your chances of finding a job as a drug and alcohol counselor. For example, you may choose to specialize in working with adolescents, veterans, or individuals with co-occurring disorders. By focusing on a specific population, you can tailor your job search and appeal to employers who are in need of counselors with expertise in that area.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming a Drug and Alcohol Counselor

Becoming a drug and alcohol counselor opens up a wide range of career paths and opportunities. Here are some examples of the different areas you can explore within this field.

1. Private Practice

Many drug and alcohol counselors choose to start their own private practice. This allows them to have more control over their schedule and the clients they work with. However, starting a private practice requires additional skills and knowledge in business and marketing, so it is important to be prepared for the challenges that come with running your own practice.

2. Government Agencies

Government agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Health and Human Services, often hire drug and alcohol counselors to work in various capacities. These positions may involve providing counseling services to specific populations or working in policy development and implementation.

3. Nonprofit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations that focus on addiction and recovery often hire drug and alcohol counselors to provide counseling services to their clients. These organizations may offer a range of programs and services, such as residential treatment, outpatient counseling, or support groups.

4. Schools and Universities

Schools and universities may employ drug and alcohol counselors to provide counseling services to students who are struggling with addiction. These positions may involve individual counseling, group therapy, and prevention education.

5. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals and healthcare facilities may also employ drug and alcohol counselors to work with patients who are dealing with substance abuse issues. These positions may involve providing counseling services to patients, collaborating with healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans, and providing education and support to patients and their families.

How Much does a Drug and Alcohol Counselor Make?

The salary of a drug and alcohol counselor can vary depending on several factors, including experience, education, location, and industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was $47,660 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,850, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $78,920.

For those just starting out in the field, the starting salary for drug and alcohol counselors can be lower than the average. However, as counselors gain experience and advance in their careers, their earning potential typically increases. Additionally, those with advanced degrees or specialized certifications may be able to command higher salaries.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a drug and alcohol counselor is a rewarding career choice that allows you to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with addiction. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can obtain your drug and alcohol counselor certification and start your journey toward a fulfilling career in this field.

Remember to research the specific requirements in your state, complete the necessary education and training, gain supervised experience, pass the certification exam, and apply for your certification. Once certified, you can begin your job search by updating your resume, networking, searching online job boards, and applying to treatment centers and rehabilitation facilities.

Keep in mind that there are a variety of career paths and opportunities available to you as a drug and alcohol counselor. You can choose to start your own private practice, work for government agencies or nonprofit organizations, or find employment in schools, universities, hospitals, or healthcare facilities.

No matter which path you choose, your work as a drug and alcohol counselor will play a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

If you're exploring options in this field in various locations, Dreambound's extensive guides are a great resource. We've got detailed insights for numerous cities. check out some additional guides below:

Thinking about a potential career transition? Dreambound offers detailed guides to help you with making an informed decision. Dive in below:

Marce Arnejo
Written by
Marce Arnejo

Marce Arnejo is part of the Sales team at Dreambound. Her role involves seeking out schools and institutions to provide valuable opportunities for students seeking a career in the healthcare sector. Beyond her professional life, Marce is passionate about music and gaming. She finds joy in exploring various genres of music and using gaming to unwind and immerse herself in virtual worlds. Her diverse interests enrich her personal life and contribute to her work by bringing new ideas and creativity.

Share this post: