GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Advise people with alcoholism, drug addiction, and related mental and behavioral disorders.
$39,090
Lower reported wage
$59,190
Median
$98,210
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

Build a personalized Roadmap Plan with CLEP savings and school matches.
Create free account →Substance-use counseling rules vary widely by state, role, and practice setting; do not assume one degree grants independent practice. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageExam is FREE with Modern States
Sign up free at modernstates.org, complete the course, and receive a voucher that covers the full $97 exam fee.
modernstates.orgCLEP Introduction to Sociology
3 credits · Sociology
$1,703
saved
CLEP Human Growth and Development
3 credits · Psychology & Education
$1,703
saved
CLEP Introduction to Educational Psychology
3 credits · Psychology & Education
$1,703
saved
CLEP Introduction to Psychology
3 credits · Psychology
$1,703
saved
U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
BLS 21-1018. Same SOC covers Mental Health Counselor. Median $59,190; 18.4% growth — much faster than average.
Illustration: AI-generated image · Illustrative scene
Ask whether any internship, field placement, or supervised training in your chosen route is paid; arrangements vary. [1]
Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
A related foundation; compare the specific counseling credential and supervised-hour rules in your state. [1]
Support people dealing with addiction, help plan recovery, and connect them with services. [1]
Counselors work in outpatient centers, health offices, residential programs, and community services. [1]
Hours depend on the setting; residential and crisis programs may require evenings or weekends. [1]
Relapse, crisis, confidentiality, and long-term client support require patience and boundaries. [1]
Further education, supervised hours, and licensure may open clinical or supervisory paths. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.