Substance Abuse
Counselor

Chemical dependency counselors help assess and treat drug and alcohol addiction. They provide intervention services, family counseling, and prevention. They also speak to individuals or groups about the dangers of such addictions.

Work Environment
Chemical dependency counselors work in facilities where those addicted to drugs and alcohol live while under treatment. They may also work for hospitals, correctional institutions, and other drug treatment centers. They usually work a 40-hour week, but working on weekends and holidays may be necessary depending on the setting.

Job Outlook
If present trends toward substance abuse continue, the demand for the services of chemical dependency counselors will increase.

Length of Training/
Requirements
Training programs vary in length from two to eight years. Most programs are two years and result in a certificate or an associate degree.

Salary
Salary depends on education, geography, job setting, and experience. Current salaries range from $27,000 - $37,000.

Educational Programs
Certificate Programs/Associate Degree
Alvin Community College
Amarillo College
Angelina College
Austin Community College
Central Texas College
Cisco Junior College
Del Mar College
Eastfield College
El Paso County Community College
Galveston College
Grayson County College
Houston Allied Health Sciences Center Howard College
Lamar University - Port Arthur
Lee College
McLennan Community College
Midland College
Odessa College
San Antonio College
St. Mary's University
Tarrant County Junior College - NE Campus
Texarkana College
Texas Southmost College
Texas Southern University
The University of Texas Houston Health Science Center
Tomball College
Tyler Junior College
University of North Texas
Vernon Regional Junior College

Professional Associations
National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC)
1911 N. Fort Myer Dr., Ste. 900
Arlington, VA 22209
703/741-7686