Alcohol and drug counselor

What does an alcohol and drug counselor do? – Tasks and work environment

An alcohol and drug counselor works to support, motivate, and guide individuals experiencing problems with alcohol or drugs. The role involves conducting conversations, establishing action plans, collaborating with other professionals in healthcare, social services, and sometimes the justice system, as well as documenting client progress. The work environment varies, but many are employed within municipal services, outpatient clinics, treatment homes, or private practices. The work may include both individual and group sessions, often in close cooperation with clients’ networks and other stakeholders.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for alcohol and drug counselors has shown a stable and positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, increasing to 34 800 SEK in 2023. The latest data for 2024 shows an average salary of 36 100 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.7% over the three-year period. This development reflects continued demand for the profession and an increased focus on preventive measures within addiction treatment. Higher education levels and specialization in the field have also contributed to the positive salary trend. Despite increased competition for positions, the job market has remained relatively stable.

Alcohol and drug counselor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (woman, public sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (woman, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK
• Gender difference: Women earn 98% of what men do (35 900 SEK vs 36 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regions is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as an alcohol and drug counselor, a postgraduate education with a social focus is usually required, such as a treatment pedagogue, social pedagogue, or social worker. The programs often include both theoretical and practical components and can be supplemented with specialized courses within addiction treatment. Experience with conversations and knowledge of dependency issues are particularly advantageous.

• Education: Vocational university (2 years) or social work program (3.5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in MI (Motivational Interviewing) and dependency theory
• Internship: Often included in the education, typically 10–20 weeks
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on healthcare or social work
• Tips for choosing: Specialize in addiction treatment during your studies

Common benefits and compensations

Alcohol and drug counselors are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, professional development, flexible working hours, and supervision opportunities. Some employers within municipal and state sectors also offer extra vacation days and pension benefits. Working hours vary, but most have daytime work with some flexibility in schedules.

Competition and challenges

The job market for alcohol and drug counselors is characterized by moderate competition, with a balanced recruitment situation. Challenges in the profession often include managing clients’ complex life situations, working long-term on relapse prevention, and coordinating efforts with other caregivers. Since the profession is part of a broader occupational group, competition for certain specialist positions can be more intense, especially in metropolitan areas. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years according to the Employment Service, but employers often seek candidates with the right education and practical experience.

Tips for those who want to become an alcohol and drug counselor

To succeed as an alcohol and drug counselor, it is beneficial to have strong empathy and be attentive to clients’ needs, which facilitates motivational conversations and relationship building. Being clear and structured helps when establishing and following up on action plans. High stress tolerance is important as the work can involve emotionally challenging situations. Flexibility and the ability to collaborate with different professional groups are also valuable, as cooperation is often crucial for client success. Engagement and a genuine interest in addiction treatment provide the strength to drive change. The ability to set boundaries while being supportive is central, especially in difficult conversations. Finally, ongoing education in new methods and trends within dependency work is recommended.

Key facts about alcohol and drug counselors

• Educational level: Post-secondary education, often YH or social worker
• Work environment: Treatment homes, municipal, outpatient, or private clinics
• Work form: Individual and group sessions
• Demand: Moderate with a balanced job market
• Special skills: MI, dependency theory, documentation

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, alcohol and drug counselors can advance to roles such as team leader, coordinator, or specialized treatment provider within addiction services. Some choose to further their education to become social workers or therapists to expand their career options. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the opportunities for employment are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Currently, there are 237 job openings in the group of treatment assistants and social pedagogues, indicating a stable job market moving forward.

Frequently asked questions about alcohol and drug counselors

• What does an alcohol and drug counselor earn?
  - The average salary for an alcohol and drug counselor is 36 100 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for alcohol and drug counselors?
  - Salaries increased from 33,200 SEK in 2022 to 36 100 SEK in 2024, an increase of approximately 8.7%.
• What education is required to become an alcohol and drug counselor?
  - Usually, a postgraduate education such as a vocational university or social work program is required.
• Is there a difference in salary between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for alcohol and drug counselors?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate opportunities for employment.
• What are the most common workplaces?
  - Most work within municipal services, treatment homes, outpatient clinics, or private practices.
• What is the highest salary for an alcohol and drug counselor?
  - The highest salary is 41,500 SEK per month, belonging to a woman with research education in the municipal sector.