Chemical Dependency Counselor 2025

The average annual salary for a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant in the United States as of April 1, 2025, is $38,506.

Most Chemical Dependency Counselor salaries currently range between $37,000 and $49,50, with top earners making $59,500 annually across the United States, according to ZipRecruiter, which reports annual salaries as high as $68,000 and as low as $24,000.

 To become a certified counselor, the first step is earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, or social work. This will provide you with the foundational understanding of human behavior necessary for this profession. In addition, aspiring counselors must obtain state-approved training by completing specified educational programs focused on addiction counseling. Many states require interns to complete at least 300 hours of supervised clinical experience before becoming eligible for licensure examinations. The next step is obtaining licensure from your state board once you have completed the required education requirements and been found eligible for exams. Most states require that counselors take either the National Certification Commission exam or the equivalent offered by organizations such as The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium. After passing these tests successfully, counselors receive certification, allowing them greater access to professional opportunities across different geographical locations in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and private practice offices.

You must complete the educational requirements for addiction studies, complete supervised work experience hours, and pass a state certification exam to become a substance misuse counselor in Ohio.

• The first stage involves completing an approved training program. These programs include courses on addiction counseling, psychopharmacology, professional development, ethics, and necessary clinical practice hours. Individuals must pass all modules with a “C” or above grade before moving on to the second step. 
• The second stage requires applicants to submit an application packet that includes their transcripts, coursework completion certificates, and current licensure status (if applicable). Those who have completed their training may then take the written exam administered by DSHS-approved providers to become officially certified as a chemical dependency counselor in Texas.
• The final step is continuing education credits which must be completed every two years after certification. This ensures that counselors stay current on best practices while providing care to clients seeking help overcoming substance abuse problems.

• Obtain an Associate’s degree in Behavioral Science/Human Services or a related field from an institution accredited by the U.S. Department of Education or an equivalent international accreditation agency to qualify for certification as an Intern Chemical Dependency Professional (ICDP). 
• Complete at least two years’ worth of supervised experience working with individuals with substance abuse disorders, consisting of at least 2,000 hours over a period no shorter than 24 months under the direct supervision of a CDP who Washington’s Certification Board approves for Chemical Dependency Professionals as meeting practitioner licensure standards in behavioral healthcare and chemical dependency counseling, or other equivalent professional experience deemed acceptable by the board for entry-level licensure qualifications relating to substance abuse treatment services; (Note: The 1-year internship program must be completed on an exchange basis with members who have met all eligibility criteria).
• Pass the International Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam administered by IC&RC of IARF Hours & IC&RC Examination Rules & Policies applicable to all examinations offered through IC&RC Examination Services consistent with IARF minimum core competencies about alcohol and drug knowledge/theory skillsets required for effective practice performance & credentialing achievement goals. Successful passage results in NCACI designation – Nationally Certified Addiction Counselor Intermediate Level.
• Receive endorsement from Washington’s Certification Board for Chemical Dependency Professionals affirming successful completion of necessary prerequisites and assessment requirements set forth above; upon approval, the applicant earns certification as a fully qualified CDP – certified chemical dependence professiona.

Counselors for chemical dependencies assist those struggling with substance addiction in ending the vicious cycle. They have the crucial responsibility of directing individuals onto a road of recovery. Our knowledgeable educators will provide you with support, direction, and training on assisting others during trying times.

• Possess an Associate Degree or higher in human services, such as social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, or nursing.
• Complete the 6-semester credits (9 quarter credits) of chemical dependency coursework approved by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy.
• Get at least 500 hours of supervised professional practice working with individuals and groups affected by substance abuse problems.
• Take and pass an approved certification examination administered by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy. In addition to meeting these requirements to be fully certified as a CDC, other credentials that are determined on a case-by-case basis may also be obtained.