Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors advise people on a range of issues, such as those relating to alcoholism, addictions, or depression. They provide support, including for prevention, to help clients recover from addiction, modify problem behaviors, or improve mental health.
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Print Occupation
- Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Human Services
What do they typically do
- Evaluate clients' mental and physical health, addiction, or problematic behavior and assess their readiness for treatment
- Develop, recommend, and review treatment goals and plans with clients and their families
- Assist clients in developing skills and behaviors necessary to recover from their addiction or modify their behavior
- Work with clients to identify behaviors or situations that interfere with their recovery
- Document and maintain records of clients' progress
- Teach clients' family members about addiction or behavior disorders and help them develop strategies to support clients in recovery
- Refer clients to other resources and services, such as job placement services and support groups
- Prepare clients for transition out of counseling through discharge planning
- Conduct outreach programs to help people identify the signs of addiction and other destructive behavior, as well as steps to take to avoid such behavior
Number of Jobs
Average Annual
Job Growth +2.4%
Job Openings 1,349
Education & Training
- Education Most require a graduate degree like a master's, Ph.D., M.D., or law degree.Associated Programs or MajorsLicense
Private Training Programs
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Change 2276