Do any of you know a substance abuse counselor? I was looking into becoming one, but am not too sure about the demand for them and if the compensation is enough. I tried searching google, but a lot of the stuff hasn't been updated in a while.

If you have not been involved with substance abuse personally it is not the profession for you. It takes a special way of handling a lot of people including therapists may not quite understand. Sometimes wanting to help reinforces their behavior. I know this because my mom's ex BF is a NA and AA councilor who was abusing both D and A. There are things about the world of substance abuse that many "sober" people would not understand. Try sex education for teens. There are a lot of people who would just assume pay someone to give their kids "the talk!" because they have no idea how to approach it.

I have sort of been involved...a lot of my friends and a few family members have been drug abusers.

What do you want to know?

1.What is the typical work day like?
2. Are they in enough demand to get a job?
3. Are there any types of promotions with more experience/education?
4. What is the average income?
etc:)

i agree with ANDYBGOOD its the kinda of job that dosent reap monentry rewards...just something you do out of caring and kindness, its listed humanitarian.....

It is a very hard job, the pay is not the best, burnout rate can be very high and promotions usually come when spots open up (rarely). Here in Pensacola, FL there are many, but it is like a circle, no beginning, no ending. Jump on where you can. Just like social workers...

This is exactly what you have to look foreword to...

Calls at any hour including 2 or 3 am usually with the person spun out on drugs.

Lots of Religious BS and why addicts try suddenly turning to God baffles me.

People going Jekyll and Hyde on you.

While treating them hearing "BUT I CAN'T" a lot.

People acting like they are doing better while around you only to wind up in jail then next day for something utterly stupid.

The occasional violent "flip out" where you are receiving (depends on the drug, smack, crack, and crank are the big three for these behaviors).

Crappy pay.

Drug Addicts will try to drag you into their world even while seeking help.

Poor appreciation.

and the worst of all...

Unless the addict REALLY REALLY wants to turn themselves around (about 1 in 100) they will be back and forth which means job security yes but if you are in this for a feeling of accomplishing something forget it. Every recovered addict to me and a lot of other councilors in the field view each and every recovery that does work as a miracle.

Now if you have the heart and can go into it knowing this then I say do what your heart tells you to. If you can make a difference then you are doing the right thing. This is one of those jobs you have to expect disappointment.

Sometimes I feel like one. Usually I'm just someone's emotional tampon.

the world needs counselors. there is no shortage of insane people. and they are only getting crazier.

Lol. I just want to make sure that my time and effort isn't wasted on something that isn't in demand