Substance Abuse Counseling Bachelor’s Degrees in New York City
Substance abuse counseling is a vital field dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives. Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in this discipline prepares students to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions to those struggling with substance use disorders. In the bustling and diverse environment of New York City, students gain unique opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, engage with varied communities, and address the complexities of addiction in urban settings. Whether your goal is to work in rehabilitation centers, community organizations, or healthcare facilities, a degree in substance abuse counseling equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a lasting impact.
Iona University
Iona University, located in New Rochelle, New York, offers a comprehensive Drug and Alcohol Abuse Studies Minor designed to fulfill New York State’s educational requirements for the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) qualification. This program equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to begin the work experience required for CASAC credentialing.
Curriculum Details:
- Foundational Knowledge: The program covers the psychology of addiction, exploring how habits are formed and the impact of substance abuse on individuals and families.
- Counseling Techniques: Students learn assessment, referral, treatment, and counseling methods, preparing them to support individuals struggling with substance abuse and their families.
- Address: 715 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10801
- Phone: (800) 231-IONA
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Iona University Official Website
- Directions:
- By Car: Take the FDR Drive to the Willis Avenue Bridge, connecting to the Major Deegan Expressway North. Merge onto the Cross County Parkway East and take Exit 10 (New Rochelle Road/Eastchester). Turn right and proceed to the fourth traffic light, then turn left onto Eastchester Road. Continue to the end and turn right onto North Avenue. The campus entrance will be on your left after approximately 2 miles.
- By Public Transportation: From Grand Central Terminal, take the Metro-North New Haven Line to the New Rochelle Station. Exit to North Avenue and take a taxi or the #45 bus to the university entrance.
Associate’s Degree Program Options
1. Hudson County Community College (HCCC)
- Location of HCCC: Jersey City, New Jersey
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 3.8 miles
- Program: Associate in Science (A.S.) in Human Services with an option in Addictions Counseling
- Description: This program prepares students to work in addiction agencies by providing the educational requirements needed to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in New Jersey. The curriculum covers competencies in assessment, counseling, case management, client education, and professional responsibility. Students gain an understanding of addiction and its effects on individuals and families, and they develop counseling skills through coursework and fieldwork. Graduates fulfill the educational requirements for CADC certification and are prepared for employment in substance abuse facilities or for transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Social Work, or a related field. hccc.edu
2. CUNY Kingsborough Community College
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 11.7 miles
- Program: Associate in Science (A.S.) in Addiction Studies
- Description: Kingsborough offers an A.S. degree in Addiction Studies designed to prepare students for careers in various substance abuse prevention and treatment settings. The program includes seven substance-abuse-specific courses and two supervised internships within New York State-licensed substance abuse treatment programs. Upon completion, students can apply for the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) Trainee Certificate through the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). kbcc.cuny.edu
3. Nassau Community College (NCC)
- Location: Garden City, New York
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 18.7 miles
- Program: Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Human Services: Community Service and Social Welfare
- Description: NCC‘s A.A. program in Human Services is designed to prepare students for transfer to a four-year Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program, though graduates may also seek immediate employment in human services upon graduation. The curriculum introduces students to the social work profession, areas of practice, and generalist practice skills. It includes courses in writing, literature, communications, fine and performing arts, social sciences, math, and science, as well as a course in alcoholism and addictions. The program also features three social-work-oriented classes, including one semester of field placement (internship). ncc.edu
4. SUNY Westchester Community College
- Location: Valhalla, New York
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 26.2 miles
- Program: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Addiction Counseling
- Description: This SUNY Westchester Community College program provides all 350 alcohol and drug education hours required for CASAC eligibility and reduces the experience requirement by 1,000 hours. Westchester Community College is a certified education and training provider of the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), which issues the CASAC credential. The curriculum includes courses and seminars during day and evening hours, as well as field experience arranged and supervised by the college in appropriate alcoholism and/or substance abuse treatment agencies. sunywcc.edu
Each of these programs offers a unique pathway to a career in substance abuse counseling, with opportunities for certification and further education.
Postgraduate Programs
1. The New School
- Program: Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology at The New School with a Concentration in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling
- Description: This concentration provides academic and clinical training focused on treating substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. The curriculum emphasizes a harm reduction approach and includes courses such as Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling, Advanced Issues in Substance Abuse Counseling, and Psychopathology. Graduates meet the educational requirements to apply for the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee (CASAC-T) certification in New York State. newschool.edu
2. Montclair State University
- Location: Montclair, New Jersey
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 12.5 miles
- Program: Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling at Montclair State University with a Concentration in Addictions Counseling
- Description: This program prepares students to work in various settings, including substance use agencies and mental health facilities. The curriculum covers topics such as counseling theories, addiction treatment, and co-occurring disorders. Graduates are eligible for licensure as both Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LCADC) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) in New Jersey. montclair.edu
3. Hofstra University
- Location: Hempstead, New York
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 20.6 miles
- Program: Hofstra University Advanced Certificate in Addiction and Substance Abuse
- Description: This certificate program is designed for individuals seeking specialized training in addiction counseling. The curriculum includes courses such as Principles and Practices of Substance Use Disorder Counseling and Theories and Principles of Counseling. The program is suitable for those aiming to enhance their credentials in the field of substance abuse counseling. hofstra.edu
4. Monmouth University
- Location: West Long Branch, New Jersey
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 31.9 miles
- Program: Master of Social Work (MSW) with a Focus on Substance Abuse Counseling
- Description: Monmouth‘s MSW program offers students the opportunity to pursue Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) licensure. The program includes courses like Clinical Practice Addictions and Addictions Considerations. Students can apply their field internship hours toward the required hours for LCADC licensure, integrating addiction treatment into their practical experience. monmouth.edu
5. Fairfield University
- Location: Fairfield, Connecticut
- Distance from ZIP 10001: Approximately 47.9 miles
- Program: Master of Arts (MA) in School Counseling
- Description: While primarily focused on preparing students for roles as certified school counselors, Fairfield‘s program includes training in group counseling and mental health consultation. Graduates are equipped to provide services such as individual counseling and referrals to external mental health services, which may encompass substance abuse counseling within the school setting. fairfield.edu
Career Opportunities with a Substance Abuse Counseling Bachelor’s Degree in NYC
A Bachelor’s degree in Substance Abuse Counseling prepares graduates for roles focused on addiction treatment and recovery support. Below are career opportunities available in New York City, along with demand and salary insights:
Substance Abuse Counselor
- Role: Provide therapy and support for individuals recovering from substance abuse.
- Demand: High, due to NYC’s ongoing efforts to combat addiction and expand recovery programs.
- Average Salary: Approximately $62,050 per year.
- Salary Range: From $40,510 (10th percentile) to $103,290 (90th percentile) annually.
Case Manager
- Role: Coordinate recovery plans and connect clients with community resources.
- Demand: Growing, with numerous opportunities in nonprofit organizations and healthcare settings.
- Average Salary: Approximately $68,510 per year. Salary.com
- Salary Range: From $52,921 to $86,487 annually. Salary.com
Rehabilitation Specialist
- Role: Help individuals reintegrate into society after overcoming addiction.
- Demand: Steady, with opportunities in transitional housing programs and rehabilitation centers.
- Average Salary: Approximately $62,360 per year. Salary.com
- Salary Range: From $48,184 to $78,733 annually. Salary.com
Crisis Intervention Specialist
- Role: Provide immediate support to individuals in addiction-related crises.
- Demand: Increasing, particularly in emergency response services and crisis hotlines.
- Average Salary: Approximately $68,510 per year. Salary.com
- Salary Range: From $52,921 to $86,487 annually. Salary.com
Youth Substance Abuse Counselor
- Role: Work with adolescents dealing with substance abuse challenges.
- Demand: High, as youth-focused programs expand in NYC schools and community organizations.
- Average Salary: Approximately $48,623 per year. Payscale
- Salary Range: From $36,000 to $63,000 annually. Payscale
Group Facilitator
- Role: Lead support groups for individuals in recovery.
- Demand: Growing, with many clinics and nonprofits emphasizing group therapy.
- Average Salary: Approximately $62,050 per year.
- Salary Range: From $40,510 to $103,290 annually.
Community Outreach Coordinator
- Role: Develop programs to educate the public on substance abuse prevention.
- Demand: Increasing, with NYC prioritizing public health awareness campaigns.
- Average Salary: Approximately $62,360 per year. Salary.com
- Salary Range: From $48,184 to $78,733 annually. Salary.com
Program Coordinator
- Role: Manage operations for addiction treatment and prevention programs.
- Demand: Consistent, with numerous nonprofit and government-funded programs in NYC.
- Average Salary: Approximately $68,510 per year. Salary.com
- Salary Range: From $52,921 to $86,487 annually. Salary.com
Opportunities in NYC
New York City offers abundant opportunities in substance abuse counseling, driven by its diverse population and strong public health initiatives. Graduates can find rewarding careers in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, community organizations, and government programs. Each role allows professionals to make a meaningful impact in addressing addiction and promoting recovery.