Earn Your Career in Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counseling

Demand for substance abuse counseling professionals is increasingly high in countries like USA and Canada. Large numbers of people in USA and Canada fall prey to alcohol and drug addiction every year. According to statistics, over nine percent people living in USA seek behavioral disorder counseling and substance abuse treatment yearly.

Experts believe that substance abuse counseling career is a relatively more challenging job than many other counseling fields. The profession involves high level of challenge because people suffering from alcohol and drug related problems are most likely to have mental health issues and many other behavioral problems. Many times, the condition of the patient relapses after lifelong treatment. People who plan to enter the profession must be ready to face these types of harsh realities.

Job avenues for the professionals

In spite of all these factors, substance abuse counseling is very prospective and immensely rewarding. Some of the job avenues where services of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling professionals are sought include homeless shelters, prisons, jails, alcohol and drug treatment centers, hospitals, social welfare organizations, state departments and community departments.

Most of the substance abuse and behavioral disorder sufferers happen to be young people and teenagers. Therefore, professionals dealing with substance issues are mainly required to work with these people. Counseling professionals also require to visit colleges and high schools to interact with the young students, as well.

Degrees required

Ideal educational qualification required for practicing substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling is a Master’s degree. After obtaining degrees such as MS, MA or MSW, aspirants can pursue specialization in the trade. However, a bachelor’s degree can also qualify one to start working as a counselor for any social service organization.

Monetary rewards

Professionals associated with this job are paid high monetary rewards. Average pay-package for substance abuse counselors in USA is between 25,471 and 448,820 per year. However, the salary varies largely according to the work experience of the professionals.