Addiction Counselor Jobs for OPT Students
Addiction Counselor jobs on OPT typically require a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, social work, or a related behavioral health field. Most roles are at hospitals, nonprofits, and community health centers. STEM OPT extension does not apply to this field, so a 12-month OPT timeline is standard for most candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and Concerted Care Group (CCG) is a leading outpatient treatment provider in the Mid-Atlantic region. We are committed to treating individuals whose lives have been impacted by substance use and mental health disorders. We do this by providing compassionate and evidence-based treatment, aimed at improving the quality of life for those we serve.
We stand behind our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, which are the core of our company with our patients and employees. Our leadership team invests to enhance the programs we offer patients to expand access to care and offer flexibility. Patient care is at the heart of everything we do. We want your experience and expertise on our team! When you join our organization, you are connecting to a committed and caring group of colleagues.
We are currently in search of an experienced OTP Addiction Counselor for our Hagerstown, MD location. The OTP Addiction Counselor position at Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and all of its subsidiaries ("Kolmac" or the "Company") is held by someone who is innovative and committed to learning and developing their counseling skill, working and collaborating with an innovative, inter-disciplinary team. This position requires someone who is invested in patient care and brings a solution-focused attitude and outlook.
Responsibilities
- Monday - Friday 5:00am - 1:00pm some Saturdays (6am - 9am)
- Develops a treatment alliance with patients that is mutual, collaborative, and individualized, meeting changing clinical needs throughout treatment
- Facilitates addiction treatment groups in the IOP and OP levels of care
- Prepares and presents addiction/recovery education presentations to all patients
- Engages in case management sessions, including assessments, collaborative treatment goals, discharge planning, partnership with referral sources and/or other providers
- Promotes the organizations image in a positive and professional manner
- Is expected to provide direct care up to 55% of weekly work hours depending on program and position
- Works with treatment team to meet the co-occurring psychiatric needs of patients
- Coordinates care for all appropriate support services, including referral sources, family members, and other support providers
- Responsible for maintaining timely and well written documentation that meets state and CARF standards
- Demonstrates commitment to excellent patient care, which is measured through clinical outcomes, such as patient retention, attendance, successful program completion, transitioning from IOP to OP, treatment goal attainment, etc
- Responsible for obtaining signatures from licensed therapist/supervisor for documents requiring a second signature when applicable
- Provide evaluations for substance use disorders using DSM-V and ASAM level of care criteria
- Carries the on call phone for one week, several times through the year – supporting the needs of any patients in crisis outside of our business hours when applicable
- Has experience with Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma informed care approaches
- Embodies the spirit of a teacher, continually demonstrating positive energy that promotes addiction recovery education and learning, both in and out of group/individual sessions
- Attends and is prepared for professional meetings, including treatment team
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong clinical, verbal, and writing skills
- Is engaging with patients, while promoting and maintaining accountability
- Flexible and creative team player
- Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work in a program that will grow and expand over the next several years
- Minimum of 2 years' experience working in the SUD field. Group treatment experience preferred, but not required
- Experience and comfort working with an electronic medical record
- Knowledgeable and well-versed in various recovery modalities, including SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, 12-Step, Recovery Dharma, Harm Reduction, etc
- If disclosed that the staff member is in recovery from a substance use disorder a minimum of three years of continuous sobriety is required – five years is preferred
Licenses and Other Required Credentials:
- ADT, CSC-AD, or CAC-AD in Maryland
WE OFFER
- Competitive Compensation
- Company paid clinical supervision
- Full Benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision
- Life Insurance
- 401K
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Paid Professional Development Time
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Paid Vacation Time
- And More!
The pay for this is up to $33 per hour. Factors, such as but not limited to, geographical location, relevant experience, licensure, education, and skill level may impact the pay for this position.
Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health has been a leader in Outpatient Treatment since 1973. Patient care is at the heart of what we do. Kolmac Outpatient Recovery and Concerted Care Group (CCG) have merged to provide addiction treatment and behavioral health treatment services for individuals, families, couples, and groups. We serve communities across Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. We are still growing!
INTRODUCTION
Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and Concerted Care Group (CCG) is a leading outpatient treatment provider in the Mid-Atlantic region. We are committed to treating individuals whose lives have been impacted by substance use and mental health disorders. We do this by providing compassionate and evidence-based treatment, aimed at improving the quality of life for those we serve.
We stand behind our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, which are the core of our company with our patients and employees. Our leadership team invests to enhance the programs we offer patients to expand access to care and offer flexibility. Patient care is at the heart of everything we do. We want your experience and expertise on our team! When you join our organization, you are connecting to a committed and caring group of colleagues.
We are currently in search of an experienced OTP Addiction Counselor for our Hagerstown, MD location. The OTP Addiction Counselor position at Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and all of its subsidiaries ("Kolmac" or the "Company") is held by someone who is innovative and committed to learning and developing their counseling skill, working and collaborating with an innovative, inter-disciplinary team. This position requires someone who is invested in patient care and brings a solution-focused attitude and outlook.
Responsibilities
- Monday - Friday 5:00am - 1:00pm some Saturdays (6am - 9am)
- Develops a treatment alliance with patients that is mutual, collaborative, and individualized, meeting changing clinical needs throughout treatment
- Facilitates addiction treatment groups in the IOP and OP levels of care
- Prepares and presents addiction/recovery education presentations to all patients
- Engages in case management sessions, including assessments, collaborative treatment goals, discharge planning, partnership with referral sources and/or other providers
- Promotes the organizations image in a positive and professional manner
- Is expected to provide direct care up to 55% of weekly work hours depending on program and position
- Works with treatment team to meet the co-occurring psychiatric needs of patients
- Coordinates care for all appropriate support services, including referral sources, family members, and other support providers
- Responsible for maintaining timely and well written documentation that meets state and CARF standards
- Demonstrates commitment to excellent patient care, which is measured through clinical outcomes, such as patient retention, attendance, successful program completion, transitioning from IOP to OP, treatment goal attainment, etc
- Responsible for obtaining signatures from licensed therapist/supervisor for documents requiring a second signature when applicable
- Provide evaluations for substance use disorders using DSM-V and ASAM level of care criteria
- Carries the on call phone for one week, several times through the year – supporting the needs of any patients in crisis outside of our business hours when applicable
- Has experience with Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma informed care approaches
- Embodies the spirit of a teacher, continually demonstrating positive energy that promotes addiction recovery education and learning, both in and out of group/individual sessions
- Attends and is prepared for professional meetings, including treatment team
- Other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Strong clinical, verbal, and writing skills
- Is engaging with patients, while promoting and maintaining accountability
- Flexible and creative team player
- Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work in a program that will grow and expand over the next several years
- Minimum of 2 years' experience working in the SUD field. Group treatment experience preferred, but not required
- Experience and comfort working with an electronic medical record
- Knowledgeable and well-versed in various recovery modalities, including SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, 12-Step, Recovery Dharma, Harm Reduction, etc
- If disclosed that the staff member is in recovery from a substance use disorder a minimum of three years of continuous sobriety is required – five years is preferred
Licenses and Other Required Credentials:
- ADT, CSC-AD, or CAC-AD in Maryland
WE OFFER
- Competitive Compensation
- Company paid clinical supervision
- Full Benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision
- Life Insurance
- 401K
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Paid Professional Development Time
- Student Loan Repayment Program
- Paid Vacation Time
- And More!
The pay for this is up to $33 per hour. Factors, such as but not limited to, geographical location, relevant experience, licensure, education, and skill level may impact the pay for this position.
Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health has been a leader in Outpatient Treatment since 1973. Patient care is at the heart of what we do. Kolmac Outpatient Recovery and Concerted Care Group (CCG) have merged to provide addiction treatment and behavioral health treatment services for individuals, families, couples, and groups. We serve communities across Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. We are still growing!
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as an Addiction Counselor
Target nonprofit and public health employers
Nonprofit treatment centers and county health departments are more accustomed to hiring international staff than private practices. They often have HR infrastructure to support OPT work authorization and are motivated by mission over cost concerns about sponsorship.
Get your licensure documentation in order early
Most states require a Licensed Professional Counselor or CADC credential to practice. Research your state's requirements before applying so you can show employers you're on a clear path to licensure, even if you haven't completed it yet.
Lead with your EAD, not your visa status
When reaching out to employers, frame your work authorization around your Employment Authorization Document. Most hiring managers understand EAD more readily than OPT terminology, which reduces confusion and keeps the conversation focused on your qualifications.
Apply early and track your OPT end date carefully
Addiction Counselor hiring cycles at clinics and hospitals can move slowly. Start applying at least three to four months before your OPT expires to leave room for background checks, credentialing processes, and any H-1B or other sponsorship discussions.
Emphasize bilingual skills or cultural specializations
Employers serving diverse patient populations actively seek counselors who speak languages other than English or understand specific cultural contexts. These qualifications make you a stronger candidate and can differentiate you from applicants who don't need sponsorship consideration.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT?
Yes, you can work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT as long as the role is directly related to your degree field, such as counseling, social work, psychology, or a related behavioral health discipline. You'll need a valid EAD card before starting work. The position must constitute practical training in your field of study to remain compliant with F-1 regulations.
Does the Addiction Counselor field qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
No. Addiction Counseling, Social Work, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling are not classified under STEM CIP codes, so the 24-month STEM OPT extension does not apply. You're limited to the standard 12-month OPT period unless you transition to a different visa status such as H-1B. Planning your job search timeline around the 12-month window is essential for this field.
Can an Addiction Counselor role qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
It can, but the role must qualify as a specialty occupation, meaning it requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field like counseling or social work. Entry-level or paraprofessional addiction counselor roles that accept any degree may not meet the threshold. Roles requiring a master's degree, such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker or Licensed Professional Counselor positions, are stronger H-1B candidates.
Where can I find Addiction Counselor jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters for employers willing to hire candidates on work authorization. Browsing Migrate Mate gives you direct access to Addiction Counselor listings where sponsorship or OPT acceptance is already part of the employer's expectations, saving you time compared to applying broadly and discovering authorization issues late in the process.
Do I need a counseling license to work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT?
Licensing requirements vary by state and role level. Many entry-level positions allow you to work under supervision while pursuing credentials like the CADC or state licensure. However, some clinical roles require active licensure before hire. Confirm your state's specific requirements and be transparent with employers about your current credential status and your timeline for completing any outstanding requirements.
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