School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s education landscape, the need for School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors is increasingly significant.

As societal pressures continue to escalate, and the prevalence of substance abuse issues among students rises, the call for skilled professionals who can navigate, alleviate, and protect our educational environment grows louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of substance abuse counseling in schools,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a flexible School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors work primarily in educational settings to help students struggling with substance abuse issues.

They use therapeutic techniques and prevention strategies to help students overcome addiction and make healthier life choices.

The duties and responsibilities of a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor include:

• Assessing students’ mental health and substance abuse issues through interviews, observations, and tests
• Designing individualized treatment plans that address students’ specific needs
• Conducting group and individual counseling sessions to help students understand and overcome their substance abuse problems
• Collaborating with teachers, school administrators, and parents to monitor students’ progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Providing crisis intervention and referrals to other mental health professionals when necessary
• Conducting workshops and presentations to educate students, staff, and parents about substance abuse and its dangers
• Documenting students’ treatment progress and maintaining confidential records
• Providing support and guidance to students during their recovery process
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest research and developments in substance abuse counseling and incorporating these findings into treatment strategies

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor to help students combat issues of substance misuse.

The Counselor will work directly with students to create and implement treatment plans, deliver counseling services, and provide education about substance abuse.

The successful candidate will have extensive knowledge of addiction and recovery principles, demonstrate empathy and respect for students, and work well with other school staff to support student health and wellness.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments to evaluate the nature and extent of student substance misuse
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on student needs and goals
• Conduct regular counseling sessions with students, individually or in groups
• Collaborate with school staff, parents, and outside agencies as necessary
• Provide education to students, staff, and parents about substance misuse and recovery
• Refer students to external services as needed
• Monitor students’ progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary
• Maintain accurate and confidential case notes and records

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, or a related field
• Current state licensure as a Substance Abuse Counselor or equivalent
• Previous experience in a school or youth counseling setting
• Strong understanding of addiction and recovery principles
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with confidentiality and professionalism

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor
• Work Environment: School setting. Some travel may be required for professional development or community outreach.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the School Principal or Director of Counseling Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our school. 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-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Do?

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors are specialized mental health professionals who work within the education system.

Their primary role is to identify, evaluate, and support students who are dealing with substance abuse issues.

They use a range of therapeutic techniques and interventions to help students understand the harmful effects of substance abuse, develop healthy coping strategies, and make positive changes in their lives.

In addition to providing individual and group counseling, School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors often develop and implement prevention programs to educate students, staff, and parents about the risks and signs of substance abuse.

They often collaborate with other school staff members, such as teachers, principals, and school nurses, to identify students who may be at risk.

They may also work closely with external agencies, such as social services or juvenile justice departments, to provide additional support and resources for students and their families.

Moreover, they are responsible for maintaining confidential records, conducting regular assessments, and reporting on students’ progress to parents and school administrators.

Their ultimate goal is to help students overcome substance abuse issues, improve their academic performance, and lead healthier lives.

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A competent school-based substance abuse counselor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the role, such as:

• Professional knowledge and understanding of substance abuse disorders, their causes, and potential treatments.
• Exceptional empathy and interpersonal skills to establish trust and build relationships with students facing substance abuse issues.
• Strong communication skills to effectively converse with students, school staff, and parents about sensitive issues, concerns, and potential solutions.
• Problem-solving skills to help identify root causes of substance abuse in students and create effective treatment plans.
• Experience in crisis intervention and conflict resolution to manage situations where immediate action is required.
• Understanding of education system and school environment to provide relevant and effective counseling to students.
• Patience and resilience to work with students facing difficulties and setbacks in their recovery process.
• Capability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics related to student privacy and counseling procedures.

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Experience Requirements

Entry-level School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors generally hold a Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field, and have completed internships or practicums that provide direct experience in counseling or substance abuse treatment.

In addition to educational qualifications, entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of relevant experience, often obtained through counseling roles in schools, rehabilitation centers, or mental health clinics.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a significant background in substance abuse counseling, and may have additional certifications such as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) credential.

These professionals have typically developed a deeper understanding of counseling techniques, case management, and crisis intervention strategies.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often well-versed in creating and implementing comprehensive substance abuse programs within a school environment.

They may also have some leadership experience, such as overseeing a team of counselors or managing a school-wide substance abuse intervention program.

With this level of experience, they are often prepared to take on roles such as Lead Substance Abuse Counselor or Substance Abuse Program Director.

Regardless of the level of experience, all School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors must have strong empathetic skills, patience, and the ability to work effectively with students from a wide range of backgrounds.

Continuing education and staying updated with the latest research in substance abuse treatment is also essential in this role.

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Education and Training Requirements

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors typically have a bachelor’s degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.

In their undergraduate programs, they learn about addiction and its effect on mental health, family dynamics, and society as a whole.

This knowledge is crucial in understanding the root causes of substance abuse and in providing effective counseling.

Many employers require a master’s degree in counseling or a related mental health field, with a specialization in addiction or substance abuse counseling.

These master’s programs provide advanced knowledge and hands-on training in treatment methods and counseling techniques.

Beyond a degree, School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors need to be licensed to practice.

Most states require counselors to pass a state-recognized exam and complete a number of supervised hours of counseling, which can range from 2,000 to 4,000 hours depending on the state.

Continuing education is also critical in this field, as counselors need to stay updated with the latest treatment methods and research.

Therefore, many counselors participate in workshops, seminars, or further education courses throughout their careers.

Some counselors might also choose to obtain additional certifications in substance abuse counseling from accredited organizations.

These certifications can demonstrate a counselor’s expertise in the field and commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

Finally, School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors need strong communication and empathy skills to interact effectively with students and their families.

They also need problem-solving skills to help students develop effective coping strategies.

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Expectations

A School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor earns an average salary of $46,240 (USD) per year.

The earnings can fluctuate based on factors like years of experience in the field, level of education, the region in which they are employed, and the specific policies of the school district.

 

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor need?

School-Based Substance Abuse Counselors need excellent listening and speaking skills to provide support and convey information effectively.

They should possess strong problem-solving skills to develop practical solutions for their clients.

Empathy is crucial to understand and share the feelings of others.

They should also have knowledge of psychology and therapy, including behavior modification and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques.

 

What is the educational requirement for a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor?

A School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor typically requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field.

Some states might require a school counselor license or certification.

Additionally, substance abuse counseling certification can be beneficial in this role.

 

What should you look for in a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor resume?

When reviewing a resume for this role, look for a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.

Make sure they hold the appropriate state license or certification.

Experience working with children and adolescents, particularly in a school setting, is extremely valuable.

Any training or experience in substance abuse counseling should be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor?

A good School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor is compassionate, patient, and supportive, providing a safe and confidential environment for students to share their struggles.

They should be adept at building trust and rapport with students of varying backgrounds and experiences.

They need to be non-judgmental and have a deep understanding and knowledge of addiction and recovery processes.

 

What are the responsibilities of a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor?

A School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor provides prevention, intervention, and postvention services to students struggling with substance abuse.

They conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, and provide individual and group counseling.

They also offer crisis intervention when necessary, and collaborate with school staff, parents, and other professionals to support the student’s overall wellbeing.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the critical role of a School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about providing advice.

It’s about shaping the course of young lives, one counseling session at a time.

With our go-to School-Based Substance Abuse Counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every counseling session is a step towards a brighter future.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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