Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

Median salary, education path, job outlook, and related careers — based on U.S. labor data.

What a Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors does

You help clients struggling with addiction and behavioral issues through counseling, treatment planning, and support group facilitation. You may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or community agencies to help people achieve recovery and wellness.

Education & path

The typical entry point is a master's degree. About 6 years (bachelor's + ~2-year master's).

Estimated cost of that path: ~$70,000. Estimated payback: ~7 years. Estimates only — actual cost varies widely by school and financial aid; payback assumes ~20% of income applied.

Related careers

• Social and Human Service Assistants — $45,930/yr
• Child, Family, and School Social Workers — $59,550/yr
• Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors — $64,330/yr
• Healthcare Social Workers — $67,880/yr
• Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers — $60,280/yr