Substance Abuse Counselor Resume Example & Writing Guide

Introduction

If you are an experienced substance abuse counselor or want to start your career in this field, writing a well-structured and compelling resume is essential to showcase your skills and qualifications. In this guide, we will provide some tips and guidelines on crafting the perfect substance abuse counselor resume that will help you stand out from other candidates.

1. Start with a strong summary statement

A compelling summary statement is crucial because it tells your potential employer who you are and what your qualifications are. It should be short, concise, and to the point. Explain your skills, experience, and expertise in a way that shows you are the right candidate for the job.

2. Highlight your credentials and licensing

Make sure to highlight your credentials and licensing prominently on your resume. This includes any degrees, certifications, or licenses you have received in the field of substance abuse counseling. It is important to include the state where you are licensed and your license number.

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology
• Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• LCDC (Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor) #12345

3. Emphasize your experience in substance abuse counseling

Your experience is what sets you apart from other candidates. Describe your experience in substance abuse counseling, the populations you've worked with, and the services you've provided. This information should be detailed and include the number of years you have worked in the field.

• 5 years of experience providing counseling and therapy services to individuals with co-occurring disorders (substance abuse and mental health issues)
• Experience working with adolescents, adults, and seniors in a variety of treatment settings, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings

4. Showcase your skills

Include a list of your skills that directly relate to substance abuse counseling, such as crisis management, communication, and empathy. These skills can be highlighted in a skills section or throughout your work experience section.

• Crisis management
• Active listening
• Group facilitation
• Assessment and diagnosis
• Treatment planning

5. Include your education and professional development

Include your education history, such as the schools you attended and relevant degrees or certifications earned, as well as any professional development or training that you have completed.

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology from XYZ University
• Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from XYZ University
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
• Certified Anger Management Specialist

Conclusion

By following these guidelines, you can create a powerful and effective resume that will help you stand out in the competitive world of substance abuse counseling. Remember to keep it concise and highlight your skills, qualifications, and experience to show that you are the perfect fit for the job.