Alcohol counselor

What does an Alcohol Counselor do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Alcohol Counselor works to support and guide individuals with alcohol misuse or risky drinking. Tasks include talk therapy, counseling, motivational work, and collaboration with other health and social care professionals. The work is often conducted individually but also in groups, where the counselor helps clients find strategies for a sober life and manage relapses. Alcohol Counselors are employed within municipal units, private treatment centers, or non-profit organizations, working both during the day and sometimes evenings depending on the organization’s needs. The work environment can be emotionally demanding but also very rewarding, as the counselor has the opportunity to make a significant difference in people's lives.

Salary development over time

The salary for Alcohol Counselors has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK, which increased to 34 800 SEK in 2023 and now stands at 36 100 SEK for 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.7% during this period. The salary development is linked to increased awareness of mental health and addiction issues, which has boosted demand for qualified counseling and treatment. Additionally, the educational level within the profession has risen, pushing salaries upward. The Alcohol Counselor market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand, contributing to stable and predictable salary growth.

Alcohol Counselor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK (female, government sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Lowest salary for men: 32,400 SEK
• Highest salary for men: 39,200 SEK
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK
• Women earn: 35 900 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 36 500 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as an Alcohol Counselor, a post-secondary education in social work, treatment pedagogy, or similar fields is usually required. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed additional courses in addiction studies and counseling techniques. Internships during education are often advantageous, as well as supervision or work experience in related professions.

• Vocational higher education: Treatment pedagogue / Alcohol and drug therapist, 2 years
• University studies: Social work program, 3–3.5 years
• Certifications: Motivational interviewing (MI), CBT courses
• Internships: Common during training, sometimes required for permanent employment
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, sometimes work experience
• Tips: Courses in addiction studies, ethics, and counseling techniques increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

Alcohol Counselors are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and subsidized lunches. Flexible working hours, supervision, and professional development are common parts of employment. In some cases, additional vacation days or compensation for unsociable hours are provided, especially in municipal and government sectors.

Challenges and competition

The profession of Alcohol Counselor features a balanced job market, with the number of available positions and applicants remaining relatively equal. Challenges may include emotional strain and high workload, especially during periods of increased demand for support services. Employers often require both formal education and practical experience, which can make entry difficult for recent graduates. Nonetheless, the work is meaningful, and the ability to impact individuals’ lives is significant. Regional differences may exist, with larger cities offering more positions but also more competition.

Tips for aspiring Alcohol Counselors

To succeed as an Alcohol Counselor, it is important to have a genuine desire to help others and the ability to meet people with respect. Being attentive and patient is crucial for building trust in conversations and providing appropriate support. It is also important to have a stable self-image and the ability to handle emotionally demanding situations without taking work home. Skills in counseling techniques, especially motivational interviewing, are highly valuable and can improve employment prospects. Building networks within social work and continuously participating in professional development increases chances for growth in the field. Structured documentation and teamwork skills facilitate daily work and make you a valued colleague. The ability to see the whole picture of the client’s situation often leads to successful outcomes.

Key facts about Alcohol Counselors

• Educational level: Post-secondary (YH or university)
• Work environment: Municipal, private, and non-profit sectors
• Common employment type: Permanent, sometimes project-based
• Number of job openings: 237 (within the profession)
• Demand: Moderate, forecast unchanged (Arbetsförmedlingen)

Career paths and future outlook

After 3–5 years in the profession, an Alcohol Counselor can advance to more senior roles such as coordinator, supervisor, or specialized treatment provider within addiction care. Further education in psychotherapy, CBT, or leadership opens doors to roles like operations developer or trainer. According to the Employment Service’s forecast for treatment assistants and social pedagogues, job opportunities are moderate, and the job market is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. There are good opportunities for skill development and working across various sectors, making the profession flexible and adaptable for those seeking to broaden their careers.

Frequently asked questions about Alcohol Counselors

• What is the average salary of an Alcohol Counselor?
  - An Alcohol Counselor has an average salary of 36 100 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salary?
  - Women earn 35 900 SEK and men 36 500 SEK, which means women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Alcohol Counselor?
  - Typically, post-secondary education in social work, treatment pedagogy, or equivalent is required, often supplemented with courses in addiction studies and counseling techniques.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels may vary between regions, with larger cities often having slightly higher salaries and more positions.
• What are the job responsibilities of an Alcohol Counselor?
  - Alcohol Counselors work with counseling, advising, documentation, and collaboration with other professionals regarding client treatment.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - According to the Employment Service, the demand is moderate, and the job market is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for an Alcohol Counselor?
  - The highest salary is 41,500 SEK (female, municipal sector, research education) and the lowest is 31,800 SEK (female, government sector).