OPT Addiction Counselor Jobs
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 JobsBehavioral Health Addiction Therapist LCSW LMFT LPC PhD PsyD
Summary
The Southeast Permanente Medical Group (TSPMG) is one of Georgia’s largest independent, physician-owned, multi-specialty medical groups. More than 700 physicians and 300 associate practitioners work together in a unique integrated care model to provide high-quality care to Kaiser Permanente members.
Our focus is on long-term health, effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. Care is delivered across 40+ specialties at 26 medical offices featuring state-of-the-art equipment, labs, imaging services, and pharmacies. We also provide surgical services and around-the-clock care at some of the area’s top hospitals.
We invite applications for a licensed Behavioral Health Addiction Therapist to join our busy practice located in metropolitan Atlanta.
About the Area
Atlanta, our home for more than 40 years, is a thriving metropolis that blends Southern charm with modern art, music, and culture—where Southern charm meets big-city energy. From its iconic skyline and rich civil rights history to a buzzing food scene and world-class arts, Atlanta is a city that never stops moving.
Home to Fortune 500 companies, a booming tech and film industry, and a strong academic presence, Atlanta offers exceptional professional opportunities. With a major international airport and a culture that values balance, Atlanta is a smart move for professionals ready to grow and thrive.
What You Can Expect
- Providing assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and care coordination for patients experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring behavioral health conditions
- Delivers evidence-based therapeutic interventions, supports recovery planning, and coordinates with medical, psychiatric, and community resources to improve patient outcomes
- Promotes engagement in treatment, relapse prevention, and long-term recovery while supporting whole-person care
- Develop, implement, and monitor individualized treatment plans that address substance use disorders, mental health needs, recovery goals, and psychosocial barriers
Minimum Requirements
- Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, LPC and LMFT, PhD or Psy D from an accredited university
- Experience assessing, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions
- Minimum three years' experience providing behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment services; experience with assessments, treatment planning, psychotherapy, co-occurring disorders, and documentation
TSPMG Clinicians
- Are committed to providing care of the highest quality
- Practice evidence-based medicine
- Provide excellence in service
- Are honest and ethical and show integrity in their actions
- Demonstrate accountability for their performance
- Dedicated to the success of the team
- Entrusted with maintaining the affordability of care
We Provide You
- Comprehensive electronic health record (Epic) and AI assistance to streamline coordinated care
- Competitive compensation based on skills, qualifications, certifications, training, and market data
- Opportunities for professional development
- Comprehensive benefits including medical and dental insurance, pension plan and 401(k), life insurance, and generous paid time off
- Complete professional liability coverage, including tail coverage, provided at no cost
- Reimbursement for board certification and continuing medical education
- In-house CME opportunities
- Additional benefits supporting work/life balance
Equal Opportunity Employer
TSPMG is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
TSPMG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks.
Behavioral Health Addiction Therapist LCSW LMFT LPC PhD PsyD
Summary
The Southeast Permanente Medical Group (TSPMG) is one of Georgia’s largest independent, physician-owned, multi-specialty medical groups. More than 700 physicians and 300 associate practitioners work together in a unique integrated care model to provide high-quality care to Kaiser Permanente members.
Our focus is on long-term health, effective prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. Care is delivered across 40+ specialties at 26 medical offices featuring state-of-the-art equipment, labs, imaging services, and pharmacies. We also provide surgical services and around-the-clock care at some of the area’s top hospitals.
We invite applications for a licensed Behavioral Health Addiction Therapist to join our busy practice located in metropolitan Atlanta.
About the Area
Atlanta, our home for more than 40 years, is a thriving metropolis that blends Southern charm with modern art, music, and culture—where Southern charm meets big-city energy. From its iconic skyline and rich civil rights history to a buzzing food scene and world-class arts, Atlanta is a city that never stops moving.
Home to Fortune 500 companies, a booming tech and film industry, and a strong academic presence, Atlanta offers exceptional professional opportunities. With a major international airport and a culture that values balance, Atlanta is a smart move for professionals ready to grow and thrive.
What You Can Expect
- Providing assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and care coordination for patients experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring behavioral health conditions
- Delivers evidence-based therapeutic interventions, supports recovery planning, and coordinates with medical, psychiatric, and community resources to improve patient outcomes
- Promotes engagement in treatment, relapse prevention, and long-term recovery while supporting whole-person care
- Develop, implement, and monitor individualized treatment plans that address substance use disorders, mental health needs, recovery goals, and psychosocial barriers
Minimum Requirements
- Master's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, LPC and LMFT, PhD or Psy D from an accredited university
- Experience assessing, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of psychiatric conditions
- Minimum three years' experience providing behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment services; experience with assessments, treatment planning, psychotherapy, co-occurring disorders, and documentation
TSPMG Clinicians
- Are committed to providing care of the highest quality
- Practice evidence-based medicine
- Provide excellence in service
- Are honest and ethical and show integrity in their actions
- Demonstrate accountability for their performance
- Dedicated to the success of the team
- Entrusted with maintaining the affordability of care
We Provide You
- Comprehensive electronic health record (Epic) and AI assistance to streamline coordinated care
- Competitive compensation based on skills, qualifications, certifications, training, and market data
- Opportunities for professional development
- Comprehensive benefits including medical and dental insurance, pension plan and 401(k), life insurance, and generous paid time off
- Complete professional liability coverage, including tail coverage, provided at no cost
- Reimbursement for board certification and continuing medical education
- In-house CME opportunities
- Additional benefits supporting work/life balance
Equal Opportunity Employer
TSPMG is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
TSPMG is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all federal, state, and local laws prohibiting discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other protected status. We maintain a drug free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT 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 visa 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.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship before accepting offers
Addiction Counselor roles can qualify for H-1B if the position requires a specific degree. Confirm whether the employer has sponsored H-1B workers before and whether they're willing to, so you're not caught off guard as your OPT end date approaches.
Addiction Counselor OPT: Frequently 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.