School Addiction Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern educational landscape, the role of school addiction counselors has never been more crucial.

With increasing stressors in our society, the need for skilled professionals who can understand, manage, and guide students dealing with addiction issues is escalating.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a school addiction counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or merely fascinated by the essential functions of school addiction counseling,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable school addiction counselor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

School Addiction Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

School Addiction Counselors are trained professionals who provide support, guidance, and treatment plans for students battling addiction.

They play a crucial role in identifying addictive behaviors and providing the necessary intervention to aid in the recovery process.

The duties and responsibilities of a School Addiction Counselor include:

• Identifying students who show signs of addictive behavior, such as drug or alcohol abuse, and assessing the severity of the situation
• Conducting individual and group counseling sessions to aid in the recovery process
• Developing a personalized treatment plan for each student, taking into account their unique circumstances and needs
• Working closely with teachers, parents, and other school staff to create a supportive environment for students
• Referring students to external resources or professionals when needed, such as medical professionals, therapists, or support groups
• Providing education to students, parents, and staff about addiction and its dangers
• Monitoring students’ progress and adjusting treatment plans as needed
• Documenting and maintaining accurate records of students’ assessments, treatments, and progress
• Ensuring confidentiality and privacy of students’ information as per legal and ethical guidelines
• Organizing school-wide campaigns and programs to raise awareness about addiction and promote healthy habits

 

School Addiction Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated School Addiction Counselor to address and treat students battling substance abuse issues.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining individualized addiction treatment plans, providing guidance, and offering support to students and their families.

The School Addiction Counselor should possess an in-depth understanding of addiction, recovery strategies, and the ability to connect with students in a meaningful, impactful way.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to evaluate the extent of substance abuse and the need for intervention
• Design and implement individualized treatment plans
• Provide individual and group counseling sessions to students struggling with addiction
• Work closely with school staff, parents, and external agencies as needed
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student’s progress
• Organize and conduct educational sessions on substance abuse prevention
• Provide crisis intervention as needed
• Monitor students’ recovery and adjust treatment plans as necessary

 

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work or related field
• Licensed Addiction Counselor or equivalent
• Experience working with youth, particularly in a school setting, is highly preferred
• Strong understanding of addiction and recovery principles
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: School Addiction Counselor
• Work Environment: This job is primarily school-based. Some evening and weekend work may be necessary to accommodate families’ schedules.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the School Principal or Head of Counseling Department.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a School Addiction Counselor Do?

School Addiction Counselors are specialized professionals who work in educational institutions to support students struggling with various forms of substance abuse and addictive behaviors.

They provide individual and group counseling sessions to help students understand the nature of their addictions, the risks associated, and develop coping strategies to overcome their dependencies.

A significant part of their role is to conduct assessments to identify students who might be at risk of substance abuse.

They also devise and implement prevention programs aimed at educating students about the dangers of substance abuse.

They work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to create an integrated approach to managing addiction within the school environment.

Often, they provide referrals to outside resources for additional support and treatment, such as rehabilitation centers or specialists.

In addition, School Addiction Counselors might also be involved in creating school policies related to substance abuse and implementing programs to promote overall student well-being.

They play a critical role in creating a safe and supportive environment within the school to ensure students are better equipped to deal with the challenges of addiction.

 

School Addiction Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A School Addiction Counselor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role’s responsibilities, which include:

• Excellent listening and communication skills to understand and empathize with students’ struggles
• Strong counseling and therapeutic skills to offer suitable advice and guidance to students suffering from addiction
• A deep understanding of addiction and recovery processes to help students overcome their addiction
• Problem-solving skills to identify the root cause of addiction and devise effective recovery plans
• Crisis intervention skills to handle emergency situations that may occur during the recovery process
• Interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with students, encouraging them to share their experiences and challenges
• A strong understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines to ensure the privacy and safety of students
• Patience and resilience, as recovery is a long process that can have many setbacks.

 

School Addiction Counselor Experience Requirements

School Addiction Counselors typically have at least a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or social work, with a strong emphasis on addiction studies.

During their academic journey, they gain substantial theoretical knowledge and practical experience through internships or practicums.

Entry-level roles often require 1 to 2 years of experience.

This experience is typically gained through internships or part-time roles in school settings, addiction treatment centers, or mental health facilities.

In these roles, professionals learn to counsel individuals, conduct group therapy sessions, and develop effective treatment plans.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have extensive hands-on experience with counseling students dealing with substance abuse.

These professionals have developed their counseling skills and are able to handle more complex cases.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have leadership experience in their background, such as leading a team of counselors or managing a school counseling program.

These professionals are often considered for managerial or supervisory roles within school counseling departments or addiction treatment centers.

 

School Addiction Counselor Education and Training Requirements

School Addiction Counselors typically need a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.

They must also possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as they will often be working with students and their families to address addiction issues.

In most states, school addiction counselors are required to have a master’s degree in counseling or a related field with a concentration in addiction counseling.

This specialized study is crucial for understanding the complexities of addiction and the most effective methods for treatment.

School Addiction Counselors are also required to be licensed, with the requirements varying by state.

Licensing typically requires a master’s degree and 2,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

After completing their supervised experience, prospective counselors can take a state-recognized exam to become licensed.

Continuing education is typically required for maintaining licensure.

Additional certifications, such as Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC), may be beneficial or required for some positions.

These certifications showcase the counselor’s knowledge and dedication to their field.

Internship or practicum experience, often part of the educational program, is also beneficial as it provides practical, hands-on experience in the field.

 

School Addiction Counselor Salary Expectations

A School Addiction Counselor can expect an average salary of $46,240 (USD) per year.

This compensation may fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, specific location, and the school district or institution employing them.

 

School Addiction Counselor Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a School Addiction Counselor need?

A School Addiction Counselor needs a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.

However, most schools prefer candidates with a master’s degree.

Additionally, counselors need to be licensed to practice, which requires passing a state-recognized exam.

Experience in dealing with addiction, particularly among adolescents, is also a significant advantage.

 

What are the responsibilities of a School Addiction Counselor?

A School Addiction Counselor is responsible for identifying students struggling with addiction and providing them with the necessary counseling and support.

They work closely with school staff, parents, and healthcare providers to develop appropriate treatment plans.

Additionally, they conduct educational sessions and workshops on substance abuse prevention for students and staff.

They also maintain confidential records of their counseling sessions.

 

What skills does a School Addiction Counselor need?

A School Addiction Counselor needs excellent communication skills to convey empathy and understanding towards their clients.

They should have strong problem-solving skills to develop individualized treatment plans.

Good observational skills are also required to identify signs of addiction.

Furthermore, they need patience and resilience as dealing with addiction can be challenging and time-consuming.

 

What qualities make a good School Addiction Counselor?

A good School Addiction Counselor is compassionate and understanding, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for students to share their experiences.

They should be discreet, respecting the privacy of their clients.

They should also be persistent and resilient, able to handle the emotional strain that can come from this line of work.

Additionally, a good counselor is always willing to keep learning and stay updated on new treatment methodologies and research in addiction counseling.

 

How can a School Addiction Counselor contribute to a school’s overall environment?

A School Addiction Counselor can significantly contribute to a school’s overall environment by helping students overcome their addiction issues, thereby improving their academic performance and overall well-being.

They can also educate students and staff about the dangers of substance abuse, promoting a healthier, safer school environment.

Their presence can offer reassurance to students struggling with addiction, knowing that help and support are available.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we have explored the impactful role of being a school addiction counselor.

Surprised?

It’s not just about counseling.

It’s about shaping the future, one student at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive school addiction counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to take the next step.

But why stop here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting detailed listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every conversation, every guidance is a piece of a larger puzzle.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

How to Become a School Addiction Counselor (Complete Guide)

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