Alabama Department of Labor

SOC: 21-1011 Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs. Exclude "Social Workers" (21-1021 through 21-1029), "Psychologists" (19-3031 through 19-3039), and "Mental Health Counselors" (21-1014) providing these services. Default

Education:		Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

OJT:		Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

Tasks:		Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients' histories and progress, services provided, or other required information. Counsel clients or patients, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes. Interview clients, review records, and confer with other professionals to evaluate individuals' mental and physical condition and to determine their suitability for participation in a specific program. Develop client treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories. Review and evaluate clients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans. Intervene as an advocate for clients or patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations. Coordinate counseling efforts with mental health professionals or other health professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or social workers. Modify treatment plans to comply with changes in client status. Attend training sessions to increase knowledge and skills. Participate in case conferences or staff meetings. Provide clients or family members with information about addiction issues and about available services or programs, making appropriate referrals when necessary. Conduct chemical dependency program orientation sessions.

License:		License not required.

Outlook:		Good

Alabama Employment Outlook
Comprehensive wage data available: Alabama Occupational Wage Survey	Alabama Projections Estimated Employment 2016 Projected Employment 2026 Annual Average Openings Annual Growth Rate 970 1,180 130 1.97

Related Occupations:

Postsecondary Institutions With Programs:

Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses Career/Technical Education Teachers, Middle School Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education Healthcare Social Workers Home Economics Teachers, Postsecondary Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education Marriage and Family Therapists Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Rehabilitation Counselors Special Education Teachers, Secondary School

Gadsden State Community College George C Wallace State Community College-Hanceville

Occupational Videos 21-1011.00 Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors