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Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

SOC 21-1011.00Job Zone 5 · Extensive Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling practice across community mental health centers, residential treatment facilities, drug courts, correctional settings, and integrated healthcare organizations, from supervised entry-level clinical work through executive program leadership.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Client intake records and session documentation — complete accurately under clinical supervision using electronic medical record software in a community behavioral health setting.
  2. Individual counseling sessions — conduct introductory interactions under direct supervision to begin building therapeutic rapport with clients presenting substance use disorders.
  3. Urine sample collection procedures — follow established protocols under supervisor guidance to assess clients' degree of drug dependency in a certified treatment facility.
  4. Chemical dependency orientation sessions — co-facilitate structured group presentations under licensed clinician oversight to introduce new clients to program expectations.
  5. Treatment plan templates — review and populate standardized fields under supervision using client histories gathered during intake assessment in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
  6. Client progress indicators — monitor and document observable behavioral changes against baseline goals as directed by senior counselors during weekly case reviews.
  7. Community referral resources — identify and compile relevant post-treatment agency contacts under guidance to support discharge planning for assigned clients.
  8. Active listening techniques — apply foundational reflective listening skills under supervision during individual sessions to demonstrate empathy and build initial therapeutic alliance.
  9. Electronic health record and scheduling software — navigate and maintain appointment calendars and session notes under direction to support administrative continuity of care.
  10. Regulatory and ethical standards — recognize and follow applicable state licensure requirements and HIPAA guidelines under direct oversight during all client service activities.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Client progress reports and treatment records — prepare and maintain comprehensive documentation routinely and independently using electronic medical record systems in compliance with program standards.
  2. Individual and group counseling sessions — facilitate structured therapeutic interventions with reduced oversight to assist clients in overcoming dependencies and adjusting to life transitions.
  3. Urinalysis results and toxicology data — collect, analyze, and interpret findings to inform clinical decision-making during ongoing client assessment in a licensed treatment facility.
  4. Discharged client follow-up contacts — conduct scheduled outreach and evaluate self-reported outcomes to determine treatment effectiveness across a defined post-discharge period.
  5. Chemical dependency orientation curricula — deliver program orientation sessions independently to newly admitted clients, adapting content to diverse literacy and cultural backgrounds.
  6. Individualized treatment plans — develop evidence-based care plans by synthesizing clinical experience, research literature, and client biopsychosocial histories in outpatient or residential contexts.
  7. Client goal attainment benchmarks — review measurable progress indicators and adjust care plan objectives in routine clinical supervision meetings with multidisciplinary team members.
  8. Probation officers and court systems — coordinate client compliance reporting and service linkage with justice-involved agencies in community corrections or drug court environments.
  9. Complex Problem Solving and critical thinking skills — apply structured clinical reasoning to identify and address co-occurring mental health and substance use presentations in familiar caseloads.
  10. Psychoeducational group curricula — design and lead evidence-based skill-building groups on relapse prevention and coping strategies for clients in structured treatment programs.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Comprehensive client case records — oversee accurate, autonomous documentation of complex multi-episode treatment histories using integrated health information systems across inpatient and outpatient settings.
  2. Individualized and group therapeutic modalities — deliver a full spectrum of counseling interventions autonomously, including motivational interviewing and CBT, for clients with severe or chronic substance use disorders.
  3. Biopsychosocial assessment protocols — conduct independent, holistic evaluations integrating urinalysis, psychiatric history, and social determinants to formulate differential diagnoses in high-acuity treatment environments.
  4. Longitudinal treatment outcome tracking — design and implement systematic follow-up frameworks to analyze post-discharge recovery trajectories and apply findings to continuous program improvement.
  5. Non-routine client crises and ethical dilemmas — resolve complex clinical and ethical challenges autonomously, applying professional judgment grounded in established codes of ethics and risk-management principles.
  6. Multidisciplinary care coordination — lead cross-agency collaboration with courts, probation, community services, and healthcare providers to construct seamless continua of care for justice-involved clients.
  7. Individualized treatment plan refinement — revise and update evidence-based plans autonomously based on evolving client needs, emerging research, and measurable goal attainment across full case scope.
  8. Inductive and deductive clinical reasoning — synthesize qualitative and quantitative client data to identify systemic behavioral patterns and translate insights into actionable therapeutic strategies.
  9. Systems analysis of care delivery — evaluate program-level service gaps and client flow inefficiencies using analytical software and apply findings to enhance clinical operations within the organization.
  10. Advanced psychopharmacology and co-occurring disorder knowledge — integrate understanding of medication-assisted treatment protocols into counseling practice to address complex substance use and mental health comorbidities.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational treatment philosophy and clinical standards — establish, articulate, and champion evidence-based frameworks that define the strategic direction of substance use disorder services across a large healthcare or social service enterprise.
  2. Clinical supervision and professional development — design and lead formal mentorship and supervision structures that build counseling competency in emerging and developing practitioners across multiple program sites.
  3. Program-wide documentation and quality assurance systems — direct the development and continuous evaluation of health record policies and outcome measurement infrastructure to ensure regulatory compliance and data integrity.
  4. Institutional partnerships with courts, corrections, and community agencies — negotiate and govern formal interagency agreements that shape coordinated service delivery ecosystems for high-risk populations at a regional or statewide level.
  5. Population-level treatment outcome evaluation — lead systemic analysis of longitudinal data using advanced analytical and scientific software to inform policy recommendations and funding priorities for behavioral health programs.
  6. Workforce training curricula and certification pathways — architect comprehensive training programs aligned with national credentialing standards to elevate the professional capacity of the counseling workforce across the organization.
  7. Chemical dependency program design and accreditation — direct the creation, implementation, and accreditation of new service lines, including orientation, detox, and aftercare components, within complex regulatory environments.
  8. Organizational budget and resource allocation strategy — lead financial planning and resource prioritization decisions that sustain and expand evidence-based substance use and behavioral disorder services at scale.
  9. Ethical leadership and organizational integrity — model and enforce the highest standards of clinical ethics, empathy, and social responsibility, establishing a culture of trust and accountability across all levels of the organization.
  10. Public advocacy and systems-level policy influence — represent the organization and profession in legislative, regulatory, and community forums to advance equitable, evidence-informed behavioral health policy at the local, state, or national level.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted documentation drafting — uses an LLM to generate initial session notes and progress report templates, then reviews and edits each entry to ensure clinical accuracy and client-specific detail Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Basic records support — submits structured intake information to an AI tool to produce first-draft client history summaries, verifying all factual content before filing Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Treatment progress tracking — delegates the aggregation and formatting of longitudinal client data to an AI assistant, then applies clinical judgment to interpret trends and adjust care plans Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Psychoeducational content preparation — directs an AI tool to draft orientation session materials and handouts for chemical dependency programs, reviewing outputs for clinical appropriateness and plain-language accessibility Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Literature-informed intervention research — queries an AI assistant for summaries of evidence-based behavioral intervention protocols, critically evaluating relevance before incorporating findings into group or individual sessions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Aftercare follow-up synthesis — uses an AI tool to compile and structure post-discharge contact notes and outcome data across a caseload, freeing counselor time for direct client engagement and pattern interpretation Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Differential assessment support — presents anonymized symptom and history profiles to an AI assistant to surface diagnostic considerations, then cross-checks outputs against clinical training and DSM criteria before forming any assessment Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Session documentation efficiency — leverages AI-assisted transcription and note generation to reduce administrative burden, achieving meaningful time savings on documentation tasks while maintaining full clinical authorship Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Risk communication drafting — uses an AI tool to produce first drafts of safety plans and referral letters, then edits each document to reflect the nuanced relational context that active listening and social perceptiveness reveal Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Caseload-level outcome analytics — orchestrates an AI workflow to aggregate treatment outcome indicators across a full caseload, interpreting results to inform program-level quality improvement and discharge planning decisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. AI boundary stewardship — establishes and communicates team-level protocols governing which counseling tasks are appropriate for AI assistance versus which require unmediated human presence, grounding those boundaries in the occupation's Q2 augmentation profile where active listening remains a low-automation-feasibility human skill Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Supervision and training integration — coaches junior counselors on responsible AI tool use for documentation and research tasks, modeling the distinction between AI-generated drafts and clinically accountable professional judgment WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  4. Ethical oversight of AI outputs — evaluates AI-generated assessments and reports for embedded bias, cultural insensitivity, or clinical inaccuracy before any content reaches client records or treatment teams, maintaining ultimate accountability for all AI-assisted work product Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 458
Augment share: 45.8%
Time saved: 61.9%
AI autonomy: 3.68
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Client intake dialogue — conducts initial interviews using structured questioning to gather basic substance use history in a clinical setting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Group session participation — delivers prepared psychoeducational content to small recovery groups using clear, jargon-free language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Progress documentation — writes accurate session notes and case records that reflect client behavior, goals, and treatment milestones in compliance with agency standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collateral communication — conveys relevant client progress updates to probation officers and community service partners through verbal and written reports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Motivational dialogue — applies reflective listening and open-ended questioning during individual counseling sessions to surface ambivalence and build readiness for change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Treatment plan communication — translates complex clinical assessments into understandable language when presenting care plans to clients and their support networks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Multi-agency correspondence — authors comprehensive discharge summaries and coordination letters that inform courts, probation officers, and post-treatment agencies of client status O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program orientation facilitation — designs and delivers chemical dependency orientation curricula that engage diverse client populations and establish therapeutic alliance from first contact Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interdisciplinary advocacy — articulates client needs and clinical recommendations persuasively in multidisciplinary team meetings, influencing treatment decisions across professional disciplines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Staff communication development — mentors junior counselors in documentation standards, therapeutic communication techniques, and cross-system reporting protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Group co-facilitation — assists lead counselor in managing group session dynamics and maintaining a therapeutic environment for clients in early recovery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer modeling — demonstrates professional conduct and recovery-supportive language that influences client behavior and expectations in group settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Treatment planning ownership — takes independent responsibility for developing, implementing, and adjusting individualized treatment plans based on client progress data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Community resource coordination — initiates referrals and organizes linkages to post-treatment services, taking proactive ownership of client continuity of care O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Group therapy leadership — independently facilitates structured group sessions, managing interpersonal conflict and redirecting counterproductive group dynamics to sustain therapeutic progress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Caseload accountability — assumes full clinical and administrative responsibility for an assigned caseload, meeting documentation deadlines and outcome benchmarks without supervisory prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program development leadership — leads the design and implementation of new treatment tracks or recovery support models, drawing on evidence-based research and organizational need Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Clinical supervision — provides structured supervision, case consultation, and professional development guidance to emerging counselors within the treatment program Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Systemic advocacy — represents the program in community coalitions and policy forums, influencing local treatment standards and resource allocation for behavioral health populations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-monitoring in sessions — recognizes personal emotional reactions to client disclosures and identifies moments when reactions may affect therapeutic neutrality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning orientation — identifies gaps in knowledge about specific substances, behavioral disorders, or treatment modalities and seeks relevant training or supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Reflective practice — reviews session recordings or supervision notes to evaluate the effectiveness of specific counseling interventions against client outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Bias recognition — examines personal assumptions about addiction, recovery, or client populations and adjusts clinical approach based on that self-assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Countertransference management — identifies countertransference patterns across multiple clients and integrates supervisory feedback to modify therapeutic stance consistently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Clinical reasoning review — evaluates the thought processes underlying treatment decisions after case outcomes are known, extracting lessons to improve future diagnostic accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Metacognitive modeling — explicitly teaches clients and supervisees self-monitoring strategies, linking counselor self-awareness practices to client relapse prevention skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge architecture — synthesizes emerging research in addiction science, trauma-informed care, and co-occurring disorders into a continuously updated personal clinical framework Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Dependency screening — applies standardized screening tools to collect and interpret initial data on clients' substance use patterns and severity in intake settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence identification — distinguishes between client self-report, collateral information, and objective measures such as urinalysis results when forming initial clinical impressions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Differential assessment — analyzes behavioral and physiological indicators to differentiate primary substance use disorders from co-occurring mental health conditions in client presentations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Treatment plan logic — evaluates the alignment between stated client goals, assessed needs, and proposed interventions, identifying gaps or contradictions before finalizing care plans Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Progress evaluation — systematically reviews measurable client outcomes against treatment plan benchmarks, revising clinical hypotheses when progress diverges from expected trajectories Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Discharge decision-making — weighs clinical readiness indicators, social support resources, and relapse risk factors to determine appropriate timing and conditions for client discharge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Urine analysis interpretation — integrates toxicology results with client history and behavioral observations to form evidence-based clinical conclusions about treatment adherence and progress O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program efficacy analysis — evaluates aggregate client outcome data to identify treatment model weaknesses, generates hypotheses, and recommends evidence-based program modifications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical dilemma resolution — applies structured ethical reasoning frameworks to complex cases involving duty to warn, confidentiality conflicts, or dual relationships in community treatment settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Team case review participation — contributes client observations and session notes to multidisciplinary case review meetings, supporting shared understanding of client needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Referral coordination — works alongside case managers to connect clients with medical, housing, or legal services, fulfilling assigned coordination tasks within a larger service team O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-system communication — collaborates with courts, probation officers, and social service agencies to align treatment goals with legal and community supervision requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Family and support network engagement — partners with clients' family members or support persons in treatment planning sessions to reinforce recovery goals across the client's social environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Integrated care coordination — co-manages clients with psychiatric providers, primary care physicians, and peer support specialists, maintaining shared treatment frameworks across disciplines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Group co-facilitation — shares facilitation responsibilities with a co-therapist in group treatment settings, adapting personal role dynamically based on group needs and co-facilitator strengths Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Community coalition leadership — builds and sustains collaborative partnerships among treatment programs, community organizations, and government agencies to create coordinated recovery support systems Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Interprofessional training development — co-creates training curricula with medical and legal professionals to improve cross-system understanding of addiction and behavioral health treatment principles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Confidentiality adherence — maintains client information privacy in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 regulations governing substance abuse records in all documentation and verbal exchanges Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional boundaries — recognizes and respects appropriate counselor-client boundaries, declining dual relationships that could compromise clinical objectivity or client welfare Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accurate recordkeeping — completes client records with factual precision, avoiding clinical embellishment or omission that could misrepresent client progress or distort treatment decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cultural humility — acknowledges the limits of personal cultural competence and adapts counseling approaches to respect clients' cultural identities and values without imposing personal frameworks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical reporting accountability — accurately documents mandatory reporting situations, clinical errors, and adverse client events in compliance with professional and organizational obligations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Non-stigmatizing practice — consistently uses person-first language and recovery-affirming framing in all client interactions, records, and professional communications, modeling standards for the treatment environment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical leadership — identifies systemic ethical risks within a program or organization and advocates for policy changes that protect client rights and uphold professional standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional accountability modeling — addresses ethical lapses or boundary violations by colleagues through appropriate supervisory or reporting channels, demonstrating accountability at the organizational level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Intervention adaptation — modifies a standard evidence-based technique to better fit an individual client's learning style, cultural background, or stage of change during sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Engagement strategy experimentation — tests alternative session formats such as narrative exercises, art-based prompts, or role-play to increase client engagement with treatment content Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Individualized relapse prevention planning — designs novel, client-specific relapse prevention strategies that incorporate the client's unique triggers, strengths, and social context Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Group activity design — creates original psychoeducational group activities that translate clinical concepts into accessible, engaging experiences for clients at varying literacy and readiness levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment plan innovation — integrates unconventional but evidence-informed interventions such as mindfulness-based relapse prevention or narrative therapy into standard cognitive-behavioral treatment frameworks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resource gap bridging — identifies unmet client needs not addressed by existing community resources and devises creative service linkage solutions by repurposing or combining available supports Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Program model design — conceptualizes and pilots new treatment program components or service delivery models that address emerging substance use trends or underserved population needs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training curriculum innovation — develops original staff training materials that translate complex clinical research into practical, experiential learning experiences for counselors across skill levels Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Supervision receptivity — receives corrective feedback from clinical supervisors regarding session technique or case conceptualization without defensiveness and applies suggested changes in subsequent sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge acceptance — approaches unfamiliar client presentations such as polysubstance use or co-occurring disorders as learning opportunities rather than obstacles to effective counseling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Continuing education pursuit — independently seeks out trainings, certifications, and literature in evidence-based practices beyond minimum licensure requirements to expand clinical competence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback processing — reflects on cases with poor outcomes or therapeutic ruptures to extract specific lessons and apply revised strategies with subsequent clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Evidence-based practice adoption — integrates newly learned treatment modalities such as EMDR, motivational interviewing adaptations, or medication-assisted treatment counseling into active caseload practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback-informed treatment — solicits structured client feedback on therapeutic alliance and session helpfulness, using results to adjust counseling approach in real time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture cultivation — creates team environments where counselors openly discuss clinical mistakes, near-misses, and knowledge gaps, normalizing continuous growth as a professional standard Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Research integration leadership — champions the adoption of emerging evidence-based practices within the organization by facilitating team learning, piloting new approaches, and measuring outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Session presence — maintains focused attention on client verbal and nonverbal communication throughout counseling sessions without visible distraction from caseload or administrative demands Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation awareness — notices internal stress or frustration responses during difficult client interactions and applies brief grounding techniques before responding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Trauma-informed attunement — attends to shifts in clients' physiological and emotional state during sessions, adjusting pacing and intervention intensity to avoid retraumatization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Intentional session structuring — opens each session with a deliberate focus-setting practice and closes with a consolidation exercise, maintaining therapeutic intentionality throughout the encounter Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crisis de-escalation presence — applies calm, regulated attention during acute client crises to accurately assess risk, communicate clearly, and coordinate safety responses without reactive decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Caseload boundary management — maintains separation between individual client cases during back-to-back sessions, preventing emotional carryover that could compromise clinical objectivity or therapeutic presence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindfulness-based intervention delivery — teaches formal mindfulness-based relapse prevention techniques to clients, drawing on a sustained personal mindfulness practice that informs authentic skill transmission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Vicarious trauma mitigation — models and teaches self-care and mindfulness practices to clinical teams as a systemic strategy for reducing burnout and sustaining therapeutic quality across the program Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Relapse response resilience — maintains therapeutic optimism and continues structured engagement with clients following relapse events rather than withdrawing clinical investment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult disclosure tolerance — sustains professional composure when clients disclose traumatic histories, criminal behavior, or suicidal ideation, remaining clinically effective under emotional pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Chronic caseload persistence — sustains quality clinical engagement across a high-volume caseload over extended periods without reduction in documentation accuracy or therapeutic investment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adversarial system navigation — maintains client advocacy through bureaucratic obstacles, denied authorizations, and system delays without abandoning pursuit of appropriate care resources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Treatment-resistant client engagement — persists in applying evidence-based strategies with clients who repeatedly disengage from treatment, adjusting approach while sustaining therapeutic alliance over time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Occupational grief management — processes client deaths from overdose, suicide, or illness without allowing accumulated grief to impair clinical functioning or reduce investment in remaining caseload Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. System reform persistence — sustains long-term advocacy efforts to improve funding, policy, or access to care for substance use populations despite organizational resistance or slow systemic change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team resilience leadership — provides stabilizing support and clinical direction to counseling teams during organizational crises, staff losses, or community-level substance use emergencies, modeling fortitude under sustained pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Substance Abuse Counselor · Addiction Counselor · Addiction Recovery Specialist · Addiction Therapist · Addictions Counselor · Alcohol and Drug Counselor · Alcoholic Counselor · Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor · Assessment Specialist · Behavior Technician (Behavior Tech) · Behavior Therapist · Behavioral Analyst
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0291 · Substance Abuse Counselor
O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessWritingReading ComprehensionMonitoringPersuasionService OrientationJudgment and Decision MakingActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingCoordinationInstructingSystems AnalysisSystems EvaluationLearning StrategiesNegotiationTime ManagementManagement of Personnel Resources
Knowledge domains
Therapy and CounselingPsychologyEducation and TrainingCustomer and Personal ServiceEnglish LanguageAdministrativeAdministration and ManagementSociology and AnthropologyPhilosophy and TheologyComputers and ElectronicsMedicine and DentistryPublic Safety and Security
Abilities
Speech ClarityProblem SensitivityOral ExpressionInductive ReasoningDeductive ReasoningWritten ExpressionWritten ComprehensionOral ComprehensionSpeech RecognitionInformation Ordering
Work styles
EmpathySincerityDependabilityIntegritySocial OrientationCooperation
Technology
Medical softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing softwareProject management softwareCalendar and scheduling softwareAnalytical or scientific software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients' histories and progress, services provided, or other required information.
  2. Counsel clients or patients, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes.
  3. Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
  4. Follow progress of discharged patients to determine effectiveness of treatments.
  5. Conduct chemical dependency program orientation sessions.
  6. Review and evaluate clients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans.
  7. Coordinate activities with courts, probation officers, community services, or other post-treatment agencies.
  8. Develop client treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories.
CIP education codes
51.150151.1503

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.