Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Depending on your personal career path, you might need to get licensed to start work. Counselors, for example, need special training. There are also many professional organizations related to human services careers. While your degree might qualify you for employment, membership to a national association could give you the credentials you need to get promoted or advance your career.
Some certifications related to human services careers include:
- Professional Licensing/Certification
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Human services careers are steadfast in the job market. Human resources professionals help companies grow, and also help to recruit talented workers. Nonprofit organizations provide services to people in need or crisis. Whether it’s a guidance counselor in high school or a marriage counselor in adulthood, chances are good that we’ll encounter someone who devotes their life to a career in human services.
Human services careers follow traditional education patterns, which means that you could earn an Associate’s Degree in two years and a Bachelor’s Degree in four years. Your career, however, could require additional certification, licensing or training. Consult a career counselor to make sure you’re doing all you need to start your career.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor
A substance abuse counselor works with individuals and families on issues dealing with the abuse of substances such as alcohol and drugs. A counselor may specialize in addiction counseling and work as an addiction counselor. Counseling may be done on an individual basis, but substance abuse counselors also counsel groups of people in what is commonly referred to as “group therapy.”
It's important for someone interested in a career in substance abuse counseling to understand that counseling someone about substance abuse typically involves an individual or family affected by other family problems such as domestic abuse, unemployment, or disabilities.
Training Required for a Substance Abuse Counselor Career
To become a substance abuse counselor, you typically need a master's degree if you're going to become licensed, although licensure requirements vary by state and some states require only a high school degree and state certification. State certification requires applicants to pass a certification test. Coursework for substance abuse counselors includes counseling, psychology, and sociology.
A career in substance abuse counseling can be rewarding if you work well with people, inspire confidence, and can relate to people with different backgrounds.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary
Substance abuse counselor salaries vary with industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary overall is $37,100. The median substance abuse counselor salary by industry is shown in the following examples:
- Hospitals = $44,100
- Local Governments = $41,700
- Outpatient Care Centers = $36,700
- Family Services = $35,200
(Salary data retrieved 6/24/11)
To get the education you need to become a substance abuse counselor, find a degree program now!