Addiction Counselor Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Addiction counselors can qualify for H-1B visa and other work visas if they hold a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field. Many positions require state licensing and clinical supervision, which can strengthen visa applications by demonstrating specialized knowledge requirements. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
A role for Certified Addiction Counselors who are committed to providing structured, recovery‑focused support in the community.
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) has an opening for a Certified Addiction Counselor (PCN 114581) in the Addiction Services Division (ASD) at Connecticut Valley Hospital (CVH) in Middletown.
SCHEDULE
- Full-time, First Shift
- Tuesday - Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- 40 hours per week
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
- Comprehensive state employee benefits
- Access the State Employee Benefits Overview page to explore available options
- Professional growth and development opportunities
- A commitment to promoting a healthy work/life balance
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
- Provides counseling services to individuals with alcohol and drug dependence
- Screens clients for program eligibility and assesses strengths, needs and treatment goals
- Orients clients to the treatment program and participates in individual and group counseling
- Delivers case management and crisis intervention services to support safety and stabilization
- Educates clients on substance use issues and coordinates referrals for medical or psychological care
- Other duties as assigned
A comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening, is required following a conditional offer of employment. All state employees must comply with Connecticut’s Drug‑Free Workplace Policy.
About us
DMHAS is dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of individuals with behavioral health needs through an integrated, holistic network of services that foster dignity, respect, and self‑sufficiency.
CVH provides trauma informed gender responsive treatment that empowers individuals to manage recovery, improve quality of life and return to the community.
SELECTION PLAN
FOR ASSISTANCE IN APPLYING:
Check out our Applicant Tips on How to Apply! Need more resources? Visit our Applicant Toolkit for additional support throughout the recruitment process.
BEFORE YOU APPLY:
- Meet Minimum Qualifications: Ensure you meet the Minimum Qualifications listed on the job opening by the job closing date. You must specify your qualifications on your application. The minimum experience and training requirements listed must be met by the close date on the job opening, unless otherwise specified.
- Educational Credits: List your earned credits and degrees from accredited institutions accurately on your application. To receive educational credits towards qualification, the institution must be accredited. If the institution of higher learning is located outside of the U.S., you are responsible for providing documentation from a recognized USA accrediting service which specializes in determining foreign education equivalencies to the contact listed below by the closing date listed on the job posting.
- Resume Policy: Per Public Act 21-69, resumes are not accepted during the initial application process. As the recruitment process progresses, candidates may be required to submit additional documentation to support their qualification(s) for this position. This documentation may include: a cover letter, resume, transcripts, diplomas, performance reviews, attendance records, supervisory references, licensure, etc., at the request and discretion of the hiring agency.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy: Refer to General Letter No. 195 - Candidate Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Vacancy Filling Process.
- Preferred Shift/Location: Select all location(s) and shift(s) you are willing to work on your application. Failure to do so may result in not being considered for vacancies in that specific location or shift.
- Timely Submission: All application materials must be received by the job posting deadline. You will be unable to make revisions once you officially submit your application to the State. Late submissions are rarely accepted, with exceptions only for documented events that incapacitate individuals during the entire duration of the job posting. Request exceptions by emailing DAS.SHRM@ct.gov.
- Salary Calculations: For current state employees, salary calculations are not necessarily comparable from one of the three branches of state government (i.e., Executive, Legislative, Judicial) to the other.
- Note: The only way to apply to this posting is via the ‘Apply’ or ‘Apply Online’ buttons on the official State of Connecticut Online Employment Center job posting.
AFTER YOU APPLY:
- Some email providers may experience delays or issues delivering messages. To avoid missing important updates—such as referral questionnaires or interview scheduling links—please check your Personal Status Board regularly.
- For added convenience, you can also enable text (SMS) notifications. To do this, log in to your Personal Status Board and select “Update My Contact Information.”
- Referral Questions: This posting may require completion of additional Referral Questions (RQs), which must be completed by the questionnaire’s expiration date. If requested, RQs can be accessed via an email sent to you after the job close date or by visiting your JobAps Personal Status Board (Certification Questionnaires section).
- Prepare For An Interview: Interviews are limited to those whose experience and training are most aligned with the role. To prepare, review this helpful Interview Preparation Guide to make the best impression!
- Stay connected! Log in daily to your JobAps Personal Status Board to track your status and check email (including spam/junk folders) for updates and tasks.
- The immediate vacancy is listed above, however, applications to this recruitment may be used for future vacancies in this job class.
- Note: This position will be filled in accordance with contractual language, reemployment, SEBAC, transfer, promotion and merit employment rules. Candidates who are offered and accept a position with the State of Connecticut are bound by the State Code of Ethics for Public Officials and State employees, available at www.ct.gov/ethics.
- This employer may participate in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm work authorization.
QUESTIONS? WE’RE HERE TO HELP:
Due to high volume, we are unable to confirm receipt or provide status updates directly. For recruitment updates, please check your Personal Status Board and review our Frequently Asked Questions. If you have additional questions about the recruitment process, reach out to Ben Beaudry at Benjamin.Beaudry@CT.Gov.
Join the State of Connecticut and take your next career step with confidence!
PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)
In the Departments of Mental Health and Addiction Services and Veterans' Affairs this class is accountable for providing specialized counseling services to clients in a behavioral health treatment program.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
- Provides counseling services to alcohol and drug dependent clients;
- Screens clients to determine eligibility for programs;
- Assesses strengths, weaknesses and treatment needs;
- Orients clients to treatment program;
- Participates in treatment planning and individual and/or group counseling;
- Responsible for case management activities;
- Provides crisis intervention services in response to emotional and/or physical distress;
- Makes referrals to outside or other programs for medical and/or psychological intervention;
- Maintains confidential reports and records of client data;
- Represents program at community events and seminars;
- Educates clients on substance abuse issues and availability of resources;
- Consults with service providers to assure comprehensive integrated care;
- May escort clients;
- May provide coverage duties;
- May collect urine for drug screening;
- Performs related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY
- Knowledge of
- physical, psychological, social, family and economic effects of substance abuse;
- counseling principles and techniques;
- community resources;
- confidentiality provisions;
- infectious diseases;
- Considerable
- interpersonal skills;
- oral and written communication skills;
- Ability to gather, analyze and evaluate information pertinent to treatment, diagnosis and rehabilitation of an individual.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE
Certification from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor and three (3) years of experience involving risk reduction education and counseling to assist alcohol and drug dependent individuals.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED
- Licensure from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor may be substituted for the General Experience.
- For state employees three (3) years of experience as a Certified Addiction Counselor Trainee may be substituted for the General Experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working with multidisciplinary team in a hospital setting or behavioral health residential setting providing care and treatment to clients with substance use and mental health disorders
- Experience with Evidence-Based Practice, focusing on standardized measurable outcomes, and the application of research-supported approaches
- Experience utilizing community resources and supports to connect individuals with appropriate services
- Experience in case management
- CT DPH licensure as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor
- Active driver’s license for transporting clients
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
- Incumbents in this class must retain the certification and/or licensure outlined above.
- Individuals recovering from addiction to alcohol or drugs are required to have two (2) years of substance free time to be considered for a position in a substance abuse program.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to speak a foreign language or be fluent in American Sign Language.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain a valid driver's license.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to travel.
Physical Requirements
A medical and/or psychiatric examination may be required prior to appointment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Incumbents in this class may be required to perform moderate amounts of lifting or restraining of patients and exposed to communicable and/or infectious diseases and risk of injury from assaultive and/or abusive patients.
INTRODUCTION
A role for Certified Addiction Counselors who are committed to providing structured, recovery‑focused support in the community.
The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) has an opening for a Certified Addiction Counselor (PCN 114581) in the Addiction Services Division (ASD) at Connecticut Valley Hospital (CVH) in Middletown.
SCHEDULE
- Full-time, First Shift
- Tuesday - Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
- 40 hours per week
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
- Comprehensive state employee benefits
- Access the State Employee Benefits Overview page to explore available options
- Professional growth and development opportunities
- A commitment to promoting a healthy work/life balance
POSITION HIGHLIGHTS
- Provides counseling services to individuals with alcohol and drug dependence
- Screens clients for program eligibility and assesses strengths, needs and treatment goals
- Orients clients to the treatment program and participates in individual and group counseling
- Delivers case management and crisis intervention services to support safety and stabilization
- Educates clients on substance use issues and coordinates referrals for medical or psychological care
- Other duties as assigned
A comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening, is required following a conditional offer of employment. All state employees must comply with Connecticut’s Drug‑Free Workplace Policy.
About us
DMHAS is dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of individuals with behavioral health needs through an integrated, holistic network of services that foster dignity, respect, and self‑sufficiency.
CVH provides trauma informed gender responsive treatment that empowers individuals to manage recovery, improve quality of life and return to the community.
SELECTION PLAN
FOR ASSISTANCE IN APPLYING:
Check out our Applicant Tips on How to Apply! Need more resources? Visit our Applicant Toolkit for additional support throughout the recruitment process.
BEFORE YOU APPLY:
- Meet Minimum Qualifications: Ensure you meet the Minimum Qualifications listed on the job opening by the job closing date. You must specify your qualifications on your application. The minimum experience and training requirements listed must be met by the close date on the job opening, unless otherwise specified.
- Educational Credits: List your earned credits and degrees from accredited institutions accurately on your application. To receive educational credits towards qualification, the institution must be accredited. If the institution of higher learning is located outside of the U.S., you are responsible for providing documentation from a recognized USA accrediting service which specializes in determining foreign education equivalencies to the contact listed below by the closing date listed on the job posting.
- Resume Policy: Per Public Act 21-69, resumes are not accepted during the initial application process. As the recruitment process progresses, candidates may be required to submit additional documentation to support their qualification(s) for this position. This documentation may include: a cover letter, resume, transcripts, diplomas, performance reviews, attendance records, supervisory references, licensure, etc., at the request and discretion of the hiring agency.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy: Refer to General Letter No. 195 - Candidate Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Vacancy Filling Process.
- Preferred Shift/Location: Select all location(s) and shift(s) you are willing to work on your application. Failure to do so may result in not being considered for vacancies in that specific location or shift.
- Timely Submission: All application materials must be received by the job posting deadline. You will be unable to make revisions once you officially submit your application to the State. Late submissions are rarely accepted, with exceptions only for documented events that incapacitate individuals during the entire duration of the job posting. Request exceptions by emailing DAS.SHRM@ct.gov.
- Salary Calculations: For current state employees, salary calculations are not necessarily comparable from one of the three branches of state government (i.e., Executive, Legislative, Judicial) to the other.
- Note: The only way to apply to this posting is via the ‘Apply’ or ‘Apply Online’ buttons on the official State of Connecticut Online Employment Center job posting.
AFTER YOU APPLY:
- Some email providers may experience delays or issues delivering messages. To avoid missing important updates—such as referral questionnaires or interview scheduling links—please check your Personal Status Board regularly.
- For added convenience, you can also enable text (SMS) notifications. To do this, log in to your Personal Status Board and select “Update My Contact Information.”
- Referral Questions: This posting may require completion of additional Referral Questions (RQs), which must be completed by the questionnaire’s expiration date. If requested, RQs can be accessed via an email sent to you after the job close date or by visiting your JobAps Personal Status Board (Certification Questionnaires section).
- Prepare For An Interview: Interviews are limited to those whose experience and training are most aligned with the role. To prepare, review this helpful Interview Preparation Guide to make the best impression!
- Stay connected! Log in daily to your JobAps Personal Status Board to track your status and check email (including spam/junk folders) for updates and tasks.
- The immediate vacancy is listed above, however, applications to this recruitment may be used for future vacancies in this job class.
- Note: This position will be filled in accordance with contractual language, reemployment, SEBAC, transfer, promotion and merit employment rules. Candidates who are offered and accept a position with the State of Connecticut are bound by the State Code of Ethics for Public Officials and State employees, available at www.ct.gov/ethics.
- This employer may participate in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm work authorization.
QUESTIONS? WE’RE HERE TO HELP:
Due to high volume, we are unable to confirm receipt or provide status updates directly. For recruitment updates, please check your Personal Status Board and review our Frequently Asked Questions. If you have additional questions about the recruitment process, reach out to Ben Beaudry at Benjamin.Beaudry@CT.Gov.
Join the State of Connecticut and take your next career step with confidence!
PURPOSE OF JOB CLASS (NATURE OF WORK)
In the Departments of Mental Health and Addiction Services and Veterans' Affairs this class is accountable for providing specialized counseling services to clients in a behavioral health treatment program.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
- Provides counseling services to alcohol and drug dependent clients;
- Screens clients to determine eligibility for programs;
- Assesses strengths, weaknesses and treatment needs;
- Orients clients to treatment program;
- Participates in treatment planning and individual and/or group counseling;
- Responsible for case management activities;
- Provides crisis intervention services in response to emotional and/or physical distress;
- Makes referrals to outside or other programs for medical and/or psychological intervention;
- Maintains confidential reports and records of client data;
- Represents program at community events and seminars;
- Educates clients on substance abuse issues and availability of resources;
- Consults with service providers to assure comprehensive integrated care;
- May escort clients;
- May provide coverage duties;
- May collect urine for drug screening;
- Performs related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILL AND ABILITY
- Knowledge of
- physical, psychological, social, family and economic effects of substance abuse;
- counseling principles and techniques;
- community resources;
- confidentiality provisions;
- infectious diseases;
- Considerable
- interpersonal skills;
- oral and written communication skills;
- Ability to gather, analyze and evaluate information pertinent to treatment, diagnosis and rehabilitation of an individual.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - GENERAL EXPERIENCE
Certification from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor and three (3) years of experience involving risk reduction education and counseling to assist alcohol and drug dependent individuals.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED
- Licensure from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor may be substituted for the General Experience.
- For state employees three (3) years of experience as a Certified Addiction Counselor Trainee may be substituted for the General Experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience working with multidisciplinary team in a hospital setting or behavioral health residential setting providing care and treatment to clients with substance use and mental health disorders
- Experience with Evidence-Based Practice, focusing on standardized measurable outcomes, and the application of research-supported approaches
- Experience utilizing community resources and supports to connect individuals with appropriate services
- Experience in case management
- CT DPH licensure as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor
- Active driver’s license for transporting clients
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
- Incumbents in this class must retain the certification and/or licensure outlined above.
- Individuals recovering from addiction to alcohol or drugs are required to have two (2) years of substance free time to be considered for a position in a substance abuse program.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to speak a foreign language or be fluent in American Sign Language.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to possess and retain a valid driver's license.
- Incumbents in this class may be required to travel.
Physical Requirements
A medical and/or psychiatric examination may be required prior to appointment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Incumbents in this class may be required to perform moderate amounts of lifting or restraining of patients and exposed to communicable and/or infectious diseases and risk of injury from assaultive and/or abusive patients.
See all 84+ Addiction Counselor Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Addiction Counselor roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an Addiction Counselor
Emphasize your clinical credentials
Highlight any CADC, LCDC, or other addiction-specific certifications alongside your degree. These specialized credentials help establish that your role requires specific training beyond general counseling qualifications.
Target healthcare systems and treatment centers
Large hospital networks, rehabilitation facilities, and mental health organizations are more likely to sponsor visas. They often have established immigration processes and understand specialized healthcare roles.
Document your specialized approach
Whether you specialize in trauma-informed care, group therapy, or specific addiction types, document your unique methodology. This helps differentiate your role from general counseling positions during USCIS review.
Consider PERM pathway timing
Many addiction counselor positions can qualify for EB-2 or EB-3 green cards. Start the PERM process early if your employer is willing, as processing times are lengthy.
Research state licensing requirements
Some states have reciprocity agreements for licensed counselors, while others require full re-certification. Understanding these requirements helps you target employers in favorable states for faster work authorization.
Highlight evidence-based treatment experience
Experience with CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, or other evidence-based practices demonstrates advanced clinical knowledge that supports specialty occupation requirements for H-1B applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do addiction counselors qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, if you have a bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field. The position must require specialized knowledge and a specific degree, which most licensed addiction counselor roles meet. Clinical certifications like CADC strengthen your application by demonstrating advanced training requirements.
What degree do I need for visa sponsorship as an addiction counselor?
A bachelor's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, addiction studies, or a closely related field is typically required. Some employers accept degrees in human services or behavioral health. A master's degree in clinical counseling or addiction counseling significantly strengthens both job prospects and visa applications.
Can I work as an addiction counselor while my green card is processing?
Yes, through H-1B visa status or other work visas. Many addiction counselors use H-1B as a bridge while pursuing permanent residence through PERM. You can also apply for an Employment Authorization Document if you have a pending I-485 adjustment of status application filed.
Do I need state licensing to get visa sponsorship?
Not always for initial sponsorship, but many employers prefer or require state licensing. Some states allow you to work under clinical supervision while obtaining your license. Research state-specific requirements, as some have expedited processes for licensed professionals from other states or countries.
What types of employers sponsor addiction counselors?
Hospital systems, rehabilitation centers, community mental health organizations, and large healthcare networks commonly sponsor visas. Government agencies and non-profits may also sponsor, though they often have different budget constraints. Private practice positions rarely offer sponsorship due to cost and complexity.
How to find Addiction Counselor jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Addiction Counselor jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on healthcare systems, rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, and community health organizations that commonly sponsor H-1B, EB-2, and EB-3 visas for qualified addiction counselors. These employers often have ongoing staffing needs and established sponsorship processes.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Addiction Counselor jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.