How to Become a Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors in India

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

Entry salary
Mid-career
Senior
Outlook
stable

How ready will you be?

Sample preview — sign up to see your real score.

42
Skills covered4
Partial3
Missing7

Ask Mentor about becoming a Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

AI mentor grounded in real careers, exams, and skills.

Free preview · 2 questions left before sign-up.

About the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors role

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

What's your education level?

Years of relevant experience?

Do you have any of these key skills?

Skills required

  • Motivational Interviewing (MI)
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Case Management and Treatment Planning
  • Ethical and Legal Compliance (Mental Healthcare Act 2017)
  • Crisis Intervention and De-escalation
  • Cultural Competency in Addiction Recovery
  • Psychosocial Assessment
  • Group Therapy Facilitation
  • Relapse Prevention Strategies
  • Active Listening and Empathy

How to enter this career

  1. 01

    Complete a Bachelor's degree in Psychology followed by a Master's in Clinical or Counseling Psychology.

  2. 02

    Pursue a specialized Post Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation Psychology or Guidance and Counseling.

  3. 03

    Obtain certification from the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) to practice as a registered professional.

A day in the life

  • 9:00 AM - Conduct individual intake assessments for new patients at the rehabilitation center.
  • 11:30 AM - Facilitate a group therapy session focusing on relapse prevention and coping mechanisms.
  • 2:00 PM - Coordinate with psychiatrists and medical staff to update patient treatment plans.
  • 4:00 PM - Provide family counseling sessions to educate relatives on supporting the recovery process.
  • 6:00 PM - Complete clinical documentation and case notes for the day's consultations.

Salary insights

A Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors in India typically earns Varies. Compensation varies by city, employer and experience.

Related careers

Is Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors the right fit for you?

Activate this career to unlock your personalised roadmap, AI mentor and employability score — in your language.

Compare other careers