In 2018, 21.2 million peopleneeded treatment, but only 3.7 million were able to receive it. Fortunately, advances intelehealthhave expanded the ability of substance abuse counselors to reach more patients, and their importance is expected to grow even more in the future. For those curious about substance abuse counselor jobs, our guide will provide you with everything you need to how to find careers in substance abuse treatment and recovery know about this fulfilling career. Employers dedicated to supporting recovery create an inclusive environment by offering flexible schedules, sober-friendly policies, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
How to Start Looking for a Job
- You can also seek guidance from sponsors and connections you’ve made in your support groups.
- Online jobs give you the chance to start afresh without having to check your past.
- Additionally, if you omit the fact that you are an addict and are offered a job, your employer may hold that information against you if it were to be found out.
- If substance abuse issues affected your performance in previous roles, you might lack references to help with the job search.
- Creating a recovery-friendly workplace culture is essential for sustained success.
Highlight recent work experience, newly acquired skills, relevant education, and certifications. If there are employment gaps due to recovery, consider addressing them honestly or framing them positively, emphasizing the skills learned during that period. Reentering the workforce after overcoming addiction involves a thoughtful approach centered on self-assessment and strategic planning. First, individuals should evaluate their current skills, interests, and career goals. This reflection helps identify what kind of work aligns with their passions and strengths.
- Finding effective ways to disengage and plug into resources that replenish you and nourish your spirit can help with establishing that balance.
- Research indicates that furthering education can significantly improve job prospects for individuals post-recovery.
- When you are interviewing with potential employers, you may be unsure whether or not you should mention you are a recovering addict.
- Attending meetings not only fosters connections with potential employers but also reinforces personal commitment to recovery.
- Substance abuse counselors, who are also referred to as Clinical Therapists or Addiction Counselors, play a significant role in a client’s recovery journey atour company.
About Addiction Counselor Internships
This adaptability not only aids in maintaining productivity but also emphasizes an understanding and supportive workplace culture. It is essential for organizations to educate staff about addiction, thus helping to reduce stigma and encourage employees to seek help. This addressing of stigma alongside supportive policies lays the groundwork for a more inclusive work atmosphere. Many rehab centers offer career services to people in recovery to aid them in obtaining employment after completing a rehabilitation program. Another option is to explore non-profit organizations within your state or connect with a state department to get additional resources to aid you during the job search.
Your past isn’t your future. Your resume isn’t your destiny.
Careers in addiction treatment, social services, and wellness industries offer meaningful opportunities for those passionate about making a difference while reinforcing their own sobriety. Creating a recovery-friendly work environment, nurturing a strong support network, and continuing personal development are pivotal for long-term success. Ultimately, overcoming challenges and embracing new opportunities can lead to fulfilling, stable careers that enrich both personal and community well-being. Finding a job after rehab can be challenging, but it is achievable with the right approach. Start by mentally preparing yourself and adopting a positive attitude, as well as being honest about your recovery journey, which can resonate with potential employers. Update your resume and cover letter to emphasize your skills while addressing any gaps in employment.
You have to remember that you’re starting fresh and while that may mean taking a step backwards, know that you’re now better equipped than ever before to catapult your career to new heights. These sectors not only provide meaningful work but also tend to be more understanding of the challenges faced by those in recovery. In addition to honesty, focusing on skills acquired during recovery, such as stress management or self-discipline, can further illustrate your readiness to contribute effectively in a work environment. Take the time to evaluate the organization’s needs and draw attention to aspects of your industry experience that align with the company’s goals. For more guidance, we have numerous resume examples across all professions and industries to help you build your document.
Recovery Career ServicesLynnwood, WA 98037253.347.1611 • Terms & Conditions
The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model focuses on placing individuals into meaningful jobs aligned with their interests, fostering engagement and stability. Additionally, initiatives like second-chance hiring policies encourage employers to give individuals with criminal records or past substance issues a fair shot. Degrees such as a bachelor’s or master’s in fields like social work, counseling, or health sciences can lead to roles in addiction treatment and support services. Certification programs are also essential for specialized professions, such as addiction counselors or recovery coaches.
The Benefits of Professional Intervention for Addiction
For instance, Massachusetts offers a state-funded program, Access to Recovery (ATR), which provides MA residents with six-month treatment and employment services. It’s vital to stay informed about legal protections, such as those provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which safeguard individuals in recovery from employment discrimination. Engaging with these resources can significantly enhance job search success, benefiting both personal and professional growth. Most counselors work full-time and in a variety of working patterns during the day, evenings, and weekends. Individual practices may be considerably more flexible, and working hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm.
If you’d like to stay informed on our upcoming events and presentations, provide your email address below. Employers do a great job of having equal employment opportunity statements, in accordance with their principles (and the law). Coaching is how we take the lessons of the past and apply them to your life — not in an abstract way, but with your unique potential as our template. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses.
Ways to Find a Job While in Recovery
These laws can help prevent discriminatory hiring practices and ensure that accommodations are made for those seeking employment or maintaining their jobs while in recovery. Implementing robust Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) is integral for providing necessary resources such as counseling and treatment referrals. Furthermore, research indicates that engaging employees in job-related activities during treatment significantly reduces employment issues, enhances quality of life, and fosters longer periods of sobriety. Structuring tangible incentives around job-seeking activities can effectively promote recovery and employment reintegration. To combat these challenges, employers are encouraged to establish robust policies addressing substance use and to provide support structures for employees seeking treatment. By proactively addressing substance abuse issues, companies can foster a healthier work environment that enhances productivity and employee well-being.
Xanax Abuse: Warning Signs & Symptoms Of Xanax Addiction And Abuse
Notably, the ADA recognizes addiction to alcohol as a disability, irrespective of current consumption. An honest approach during the job application process significantly affects your candidacy. Acknowledging employment gaps openly alleviates potential embarrassment or suspicion, building trust with employers. Many recovery support networks and organizations suggest framing these discussions positively, by emphasizing commitment to recovery and readiness to engage in the workforce. Substance abuse counselors, who are also referred to as Clinical Therapists or Addiction Counselors, play a significant role in a client’s recovery journey atour company. They help people to manage drug or alcohol addiction in a variety of ways, offering insight and advice on what to do throughout long-term recovery.