Substance Abuse Counsellor Courses
Substance Abuse Counsellors treat addiction patients, developing support plans tailored to individual needs and circumstances while collaborating with their support networks.
AI Exposure
High
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Substance Abuse Counsellor
Get qualified to work as a Substance Abuse Counsellor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CHC43215
Duration
11 months - 18 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
The Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (CHC43215) is an entry level qualification for students wanting to work or volunteer providing services and interventions to clients with alcohol or drug issues. During the course, students complete 17 units with a lot of focus on interpersonal skills, communication and relationship building. Students learn the foundational information, techniques, procedures and practices needed to assess clients with alcohol or other drug issues, provide interventions, as we...
Career opportunities
Duration
11 months - 18 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
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CHC53215
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
A Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215 is great for students seeking a career as drug and alcohol counsellors. This is a high-end qualification and students complete 22 units across workplace management and first aid, counselling, and providing add-on services like relapse prevention and performing interventions.
The Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package.
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Estimated fee
From $35,001
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The Bachelor of Arts (Human Services) delves into the multifaceted field dedicated to addressing diverse human needs in society. It encompasses areas like aged care, child protection, community outreach, social justice advocacy, and access to medical care. Professionals in this discipline prioritize a human-centered approach, emphasizing communication and active listening. While organizational reporting remains crucial, the primary focus lies in serving and supporting individuals.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $35,001
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Estimated fee
From $39,456
Duration
3 years - 4 years
Do you want to become a professional counsellor? With the Bachelor of Counselling you can setup your own counselling practice and support clients suffering from a range of issues including trauma, addictions, grief, anxiety, family and relationship problems.
During your studies you will be honing your communication and interpersonal skills, making you a more effective listener and practitioner. The degree also covers counselling theory, professional reflection and self-care, counselling and neuroscience...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $39,456
Duration
3 years - 4 years
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Substance Abuse Counsellor.
Common questions
How much do Substance Abuse Counsellors earn?
In Australia, a full time substance abuse counsellor generally earns $1,600 per week ($83,200 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for Substance Abuse Counsellors?
As of May 2019, there were approximately 31,000 counsellors in Australia. That number is expected to grow to nearly 39,000 by May 2024. Drug and alcohol workers are expected to see nearly 25% job growth in the next five years.
Source: The Labour Market Information Portal - 2019 Occupational Projections and Seek
How long does it take to become a Substance Abuse Counsellor?
To become a substance abuse counsellor, you usually must hold a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs. This course of study can take 12 to 18 months depending on if you study full time or part time and whether you choose to study in-person, online or via blended study. Qualification in counselling, mental health, psychology or social work can potentially be helpful. It may also help to become a member of The Australian Counselling Association.
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Nurture your caring side with a career in Aged Care. Career pathways include Personal Carers, Aged Care Workers and Diversional Therapists. Check your eligibility for government funding. Start your career in Aged Care today.
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Make an impact in the community and change lives through the Alcohol and Other Drugs career pathway. Possible job roles include Rehabilitation Counsellor, Substance Abuse Counsellor and Social Worker. Check your eligibility for...
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Case Management courses are ideal for those wanting to give back to the community and facilitate change in a professional setting. Career pathways include Youth Case Worker and Case Manager. Check your eligibility for governmen...
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More information
A substance abuse counsellor is somebody who treats patients who are experiencing issues with addiction to alcohol or drugs. Some substance abuse counsellors work with a broad set of clients, while others specialise in treating those with specific circumstances or dependencies, such as older or younger people, military veterans and those who have faced or continue to face economic, social or mental hardship.
Substance abuse counsellors help determine the best courses of action for clients and speak with not only them, but also their family, friends and others to develop a support plan. Substance abuse counsellors are adept at understanding the different needs and capabilities of patients in regards to their personal and professional lifestyles and have a full understanding of available resources. They have the ability to suggest and develop a range of options for navigating past, present or potential future drug and alcohol abuse. Counsellors can work in call centres, medical institutions, patients' homes or other group or individual settings.
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