As a therapist, you will train in clinical and mental health. A lot of the work that you can find all depends on the level of education that you've achieved in the industry. You can provide nursing care, group facilitation, outreach or even individual counseling.
One type of substance abuse treatment job that you can pursue is being an individual counselor. In this field, you can either be a clinical social worker or a mental health counselor. You will be working with patients that have substance abuse problems. You will provide individual counseling sessions via outpatient methods. In order for you to have the ability to be paid by health insurance companies, you will have to obtain a master's degree and have a state license.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a substance abuse treatment job that allows you to work with a group of people that need your help, consider becoming a group facilitator. You will provide sessions that encourage your clients to speak about their problems with substance abuse.
Some programs offered for treating substance abusers includes methadone clinics. Employees that work here include social workers and mental health counselors. They talk with the clients and follow up with them regarding their progress.
In order to become a program director, you will need to obtain a master's degree in clinical social work or mental health counseling. You can work your way up from being a counselor to become a director or programs.
