Substance Use Therapist
Listed compensation
$49k-$59k
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: 1700 EDUCATION AVE - PUNTA GORDA, FL 33950Education Level: Graduate DegreeSalary Range: $49,014.00 - $58,506.00 Salary/yearSign-on Bonus: $2,000 Responsible for assessing substance use and co-occurring needs of patients seeking services Develop and implement appropriate treatment plans, which include measurable objectives stated in behavioral terms Provide effective brief and solution-focused group or individual therapy Prepare discharge plans Maintain accurate and timely documentation including progress notes and outcome tools Become knowledgeable of, and be able to effectively communicate with related community service organizations including Department of Corrections, County Probation and Drug Court Average caseload for a full-time therapist is less than 50 active patients Substance Use Therapists will be expected to average 52% of work hours in direct face-to-face patient contact
Qualifications
Master’s degree in Human Services field The Florida CAP (or the equivalent from another state) is an acceptable alternative to the Master’s degree Minimum two years of clinical experience and licensure is preferred but not required Knowledge and skills in treating a population with co-occurring disorders is preferred Thorough knowledge of rules and regulations (including Florida’s Marchman Act) pertaining to the care and treatment of persons with substance abuse problems, including overall treatment concepts and objectives Ability to pass a level II Background clearance and drug test.
Valid FL drivers’ license, insurance, and safe driving record. CBHC New Hire Orientation (NHO) completed within first two (2) months of employment. Ability to evaluate patient needs and provide direct service. Ability to work effectively with staff, patients, and community agencies.
Must maintain high standards of ethical and professional conduct, while adhering to agency policies and procedures. Ability to use a computer. Attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team, in collaboration with other community partners.
Ability to manage stressful situations and display appropriate work demeanor and boundaries. Ability to demonstrate excellent customer service. Strong oral and written communication skills. Ability to demonstrate flexibility in various work projects Ability to understand instructions.
Ability to maintain patient and agency confidentiality. Ability to perform repetitive tasks. Ability to sit or stand for extended periods. Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle in all driving conditions. Ability to lift up to 10 pounds.
Key Responsibilities
The therapist is responsible for assessing patient needs, developing treatment plans, and providing solution-focused group or individual therapy. They must also maintain accurate documentation and coordinate with community service organizations.
Requirements
Candidates must hold a Master's degree in a Human Services field or equivalent certification, with at least two years of clinical experience preferred. Applicants must also pass a level II background check and possess a valid driver's license.
Qualifications
- Education
- Master's degree (postgraduate degree)
- Experience
- 2+ years of experience
Key Skills
Addiction Medicine — Counselor Career Context
Of the 50 active Substance Use / Addiction Counselor listings this role was benchmarked against, 32% are remote, 36% have no call, 54% require no weekends.
The cost-of-living index for Florida is 103.4 (US average = 100; BEA Regional Price Parities (2024)), so the posted ~$54k midpoint carries the purchasing power of roughly $52k in an average-cost state. 58.1% of Florida clinicians report burnout symptoms in WeekdayDoc's Burnout Index (2026-01 data).
Work-Life Balance Analysis
WeekdayDoc's proprietary algorithm rates Substance Use Therapist at CHARLOTTE BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE a 7.2 out of 10 for work-life balance — classified as very good. This places the position in the top 10% in Substance Use / Addiction Counselor — ranked against 1,008 active Substance Use / Addiction Counselor listings on WeekdayDoc.
Location & Logistics
Florida has no state income tax, which can significantly increase take-home pay compared to high-tax states. At the posted ~$54k midpoint, that is roughly $2k–$4k a year versus a typical 4–7% state rate.
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