Substance Use Disorder Counselor
Listed compensation
$83k-$104k
The week · per this posting · weekdays assumed
Ask the employer about the work setting, call expectations, weekend coverage and time off.
Job Description
Job DetailsJob Location: Nisqually Correctional Facility - Olympia, WA 98513Position Type: MEDIKO Employee - Full TimeSalary Range: $83,000.00 - $104,000.00 Salary/yearJob Shift: Day ShiftMEDIKO: Mission driven & committed to delivering high-quality medical care to the communities we serve.
Our dedicated Healthcare Professionals find meaning, support and new opportunities to learn and grow their skills every day. It’s what sets us apart from other healthcare industries and drives our success in the correctional healthcare space.
Whether you are just graduating from nursing school or bringing years of experience to your new position at MEDIKO, you will benefit from our competitive compensation, commitment to safety and exposure to the diverse healthcare needs of the clients we serve.
If you’re ready to take on a role that will enrich your career and make a real impact to your community, we encourage you to APPLY TODAY to get the conversation started!
The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will provide supportive counseling, education, and intervention services to patients in a correctional healthcare setting who are experiencing substance use challenges.
This role will assist patients in understanding the impact of substance use, developing coping strategies, and participating in recovery-focused programming.
The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will collaborate with medical and mental health staff to support patient care, maintain accurate documentation, and ensure services are delivered in compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations.
How YOU can Make an Impact: Conduct substance use screenings and structured interviews to identify patient needs and risk factors. Provide individual and group counseling focused on substance use education, relapse prevention, coping strategies, and life skills.
Deliver evidence-based educational programming on addiction, recovery, and healthy lifestyle choices. Support patients in setting personal recovery goals and developing action plans. Collaborate with healthcare, mental health, and correctional staff to coordinate services and referrals as needed.
Encourage patient engagement and participation in recovery-focused activities and treatment programs. Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation of patient interactions, progress, and services provided.
Assist with discharge planning and continuity of care, including referral to community-based services when appropriate. Adhere to established policies, procedures, professional standards, and all federal, state, and local guidelines.
Maintain compliance with safety, security, infection control, and quality standards within the correctional environment. Follow MEDIKO’s Standards of Professional Conduct and facility rules, regulations, and chain of command. Perform other related duties as assigned.
What we Ask of YOU: A current, valid state(s) licensure, certificate and/or credentials documenting ability to practice in applicable role (i. e. CMA, LPN, RN, LMHP, etc.). A High School diploma or GED is required. Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Health or Human Services, or a related field preferred.
Certification as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor or equivalent credential in the state of employment preferred; if not certified, must meet state requirements for supervised practice and work toward credentialing.
1–2 years of experience in substance abuse counseling, behavioral health, or a related human services field preferred. Experience in roles that involve direct patient care or administrative support in a regulated environment is preferred.
Strong understanding of healthcare regulations, policies, and procedures as they relate to the correctional setting is an advantage. Demonstrated ability to manage time effectively, adhere to protocols, and deliver high-quality service in a fast-paced, structured environment.
Active CPR/BLS certificate required (American Heart Association/American Red Cross guideline approved).
Joining MEDIKO comes with perks to support you in your personal and professional journey: Competitive Pay and MVP Bonus Program Benefits package including Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance for you and your family Preferred Pharmacy Network options MDLIVE virtual Provider telehealth options Wellness program Health Savings Accounts and Health Reimbursement Account options with company match Employer-paid Life Insurance Policy/AD&D, Long-Term Disability and Short-Term Disability coverage Optional Voluntary coverage for Life Insurance, Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity plans Paid portion of Maternity Leaves Employee Assistance Program Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) including 10 Holidays and flexible Floating Holidays Participation in the MEDIKO 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match Employee Referral Bonuses Tuition Reimbursement Assistance Plan Free Continuing Education Access to Perks and Discounts at nationally recognized chains, service providers and retailers EOE STATEMENT: We are an equal employment opportunity employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
Qualifications
Key Responsibilities
The Substance Use Disorder Counselor provides supportive counseling, education, and intervention services to patients within a correctional facility. They collaborate with medical and mental health staff to develop recovery plans, maintain accurate patient documentation, and ensure compliance with safety and organizational standards.
Requirements
Candidates must hold a valid state licensure or certification relevant to the role and possess a high school diploma or GED. A bachelor's degree in a related field and 1-2 years of experience in substance abuse counseling or behavioral health are preferred.
Qualifications
- Education
- Bachelor degree
Key Skills
Addiction Medicine — Counselor Career Context
Of the 50 active Substance Use / Addiction Counselor listings this role was benchmarked against, 76% are remote, 30% have no call, 76% require no weekends.
The cost-of-living index for Washington is 107.0 (US average = 100; BEA Regional Price Parities (2024)), so the posted ~$94k midpoint carries the purchasing power of roughly $87k in an average-cost state. 59.8% of Washington clinicians report burnout symptoms in WeekdayDoc's Burnout Index (2026-01 data).
Location & Logistics
Washington has no state income tax, which can significantly increase take-home pay compared to high-tax states. At the posted ~$94k midpoint, that is roughly $4k–$7k a year versus a typical 4–7% state rate.
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