Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC / LCADC)

Rescue Mission of Trenton; Trenton (NJ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 63,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance

401(k) with employer contribution

Immediate Paid Time Off

12 Floating Holidays

Job summary

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC or LCADC) to join our Behavioral Health team. Candidates will provide individual and group counseling to help individuals overcome substance use disorders.

This role involves collaboration with an interdisciplinary team, counseling, and training opportunities, offering a supportive environment to promote recovery and self-sufficiency while working for a mission-driven organization.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in substance use disorder treatment is preferred.
• Candidates must hold CADC or LCADC certification.
• Supervised clinical experience and knowledge in substance use counseling.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group counseling in a structured setting.
• Assist clients in building life skills and daily structure.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.

Skills

Substance use assessment and counseling techniques

Crisis intervention and case management

Knowledge of behavioral health systems

Strong documentation and organizational skills

Valid driver’s license

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling or related field

Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work or related field (LCADC)

Job description

Help Individuals Rebuild Their Lives Through Recovery.

Join a team where recovery is more than a program; it is a pathway to hope, dignity, and lasting change. The Rescue Mission of Trenton is seeking a Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC or LCADC) to join our Behavioral Health team. Our counselors help individuals experiencing substance use disorders rebuild their lives through evidence-based treatment, meaningful relationships, and a recovery-oriented environment.

Our counselors work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team to deliver person-centered care that promotes recovery, self-sufficiency, and overall wellness. If you are passionate about helping people overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery, we invite you to become part of a mission-driven organization that has served the Greater Trenton community for more than a century.

What Sets Us Apart

• Weekly staff training and clinical skill development.
• Paid certification renewal training days (6 days every 2 years).
• Annual reimbursement for professional development and continuing education.
• Ongoing in-house learning, supervision, and team-based clinical support.
• Clear pathways for advancement within the organization.

Key Responsibilities

CADC

What You’ll Do:

• Provide individual and group counseling in a structured, in-person setting.
• Support recovery planning, goal setting, and progress tracking.
• Collaborate with clinical staff and community partners.
• Assist clients in building life skills and daily structure.
• Maintain timely and accurate documentation.
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team.

LCADC

What You’ll Do:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Provide individual and group counseling services.
• Monitor progress and adjust treatment approaches as needed.
• Support engagement in structured recovery and life skills programming.
• Coordinate care with external providers and referral partners.
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences.

Clinical Leadership & Program Support

Support staff training, coaching, and professional development; assist with group facilitation and clinical curriculum development; provide guidance to clinicians and interns as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education — Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field preferred; Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or related field (LCADC).
• Licensure / Certification — Candidates must hold one of the following: Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). Other acceptable credentials may include Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Approved by the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
• Experience — 1–2 years of experience in substance use disorder treatment preferred.
• Skills — Substance use assessment and counseling techniques; crisis intervention and case management; knowledge of behavioral health, criminal justice, and social service systems; strong documentation and organizational skills. Additional Requirement: Valid driver’s license.

Compensation

• CADC: $52,000 – $63,000
• LCADC: $65,000 – $78,000

What We Offer

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance starting the first month after hire.
• 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance.
• 401(k) with 2% employer contribution and up to 4% employer match.
• Immediate Paid Time Off, plus additional accrued Sick Time.
• 12 Floating Holidays available after 90 days.
• Strong, supportive, mission-driven team culture.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Rescue Mission of Trenton is committed to ensuring that all current and prospective employees are afforded equal opportunities, fair treatment, and a harassment free work environment. The Mission provides equal employment opportunities for all, without regard to any form of intentional or unintentional harassment or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, military or veteran status, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, breastfeeding, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.