Substance Abuse Counsellor

A substance abuse counsellor is somebody who treats patients who are experiencing issues with addiction to alcohol or drugs. Some substance abuse counsellors work with a broad set of clients, while others specialise in treating those with specific circumstances or dependencies, such as older or younger people, military veterans and those who have faced or continue to face economic, social or mental hardship.

Substance abuse counsellors help determine the best courses of action for clients and speak with not only them, but also their family, friends and others to develop a support plan. Substance abuse counsellors are adept at understanding the different needs and capabilities of patients in regards to their personal and professional lifestyles and have a full understanding of available resources. They have the ability to suggest and develop a range of options for navigating past, present or potential future drug and alcohol abuse. Counsellors can work in call centres, medical institutions, patients' homes or other group or individual settings.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $83,200
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a substance abuse counsellor?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
CHC43215 & CHC43315

Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health
Online
17 months
$5,200
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Substance Abuse Counsellor Welfare Worker Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker Outreach Worker Peer Support Worker Support Worker Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Crisis Support Worker Mental Health Counsellor
+ 7 more
CHC53215

Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Online
12 months
$4,004
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Substance Abuse Counsellor Welfare Worker Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Substance Abuse Counsellor Welfare Worker Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Recommended
CHC43215

Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs
On Campus, Online
12 - 14 months
$1,209 - $4,800
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Substance Abuse Counsellor Welfare Worker Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Substance Abuse Counsellor Welfare Worker Drug and Alcohol Counsellor

Bachelor of Counselling
On Campus
3 years
$0 - $43,428
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Counsellor Family Counsellor Marriage Counsellor
Mental Health Counsellor Substance Abuse Counsellor Crisis Counsellor Grief Counsellor
+ 4 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Counsellor Family Counsellor Marriage Counsellor Mental Health Counsellor Substance Abuse Counsellor Crisis Counsellor Grief Counsellor + 4 more

Bachelor of Arts (Human Services)
Blended
3 years
$38,700 - $42,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Disability Advocate Social Justice Advocate Substance Abuse Counsellor
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Disability Advocate Social Justice Advocate Substance Abuse Counsellor
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Social Worker

Social workers assist individuals and communities in overcoming challenges related to health, income, and social issues, offering resources and policy support.

Avg yearly income $88,400
Skill level Advanced

Intake Worker

An Intake Worker assesses clients at welfare services, conducting evaluations and coordinating care plans while communicating effectively with stakeholders.

Avg yearly income $89,960
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Drug and Alcohol Counsellor

Drug and Alcohol Counsellors assist individuals and families struggling with substance addiction, guiding them through recovery and interventions.

Avg yearly income $98,800
Skill level Beginner

Mental Health Advocate

A Mental Health Advocate supports individuals by promoting their rights, accessing services, and navigating mental health systems with empathy and guidance.

Avg yearly income $65,000
Skill level Unknown

Addiction Counsellor

An Addiction Counsellor aids individuals with substance and behavioural addictions through therapy, treatment plans, and support in recovery.

Avg yearly income $92,560
Skill level Unknown

Common questions

How much do Substance Abuse Counsellors earn?

In Australia, a full time substance abuse counsellor generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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What are the job opportunities for Substance Abuse Counsellors?

As of May 2019, there were approximately 31,000 counsellors in Australia. That number is expected to grow to nearly 39,000 by May 2024. Drug and alcohol workers are expected to see nearly 25% job growth in the next five years.

Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Seek

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How long does it take to become a Substance Abuse Counsellor?

To become a substance abuse counsellor, you usually must hold a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. This course of study can take 12 to 18 months depending on if you study full time or part time and whether you choose to study in-person, online or via blended study. Qualification in counselling, mental health, psychology or social work can potentially be helpful. It may also help to become a member of The Australian Counselling Association.

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Further reading

What can you do with a Certificate III in Health Administration?

11th January 2022

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