Drug and Alcohol Counselor salary in Virginia
A strong career option in Virginia — with programs that take 1 to 4 years to complete.
Median pay · May 2025
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
$59,880/ yr
$4,990 / mo · $28.79 / hr
Pay by experience
Entry
$39,728
Median
$59,880
Experienced
$100,048
Demand
Moderate
Program length
1 to 4 years
Job demand & outlook
Steady demand across the United States
Source: BLS Employment Projections
Where this career can take you
A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step
- Drug and Alcohol Counselor (entry-level)$39,728
- Drug and Alcohol Counselor (mid-career)$59,880
- Drug and Alcohol Counselor (experienced)$100,048
Is this career change worth it?
A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain
What it typically costs
- Average training cost—
- Time to complete1 to 4 years
- Credential earned—
What you get back
- Starting salary$39,728
- Median salary$59,880
- Experienced salary$100,048
Many career changers recoup their certification cost within the first few months of working in their new role.
How to become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Virginia
A clear path from where you are to where you want to be
Find a Drug and Alcohol Counselor program in Virginia
Browse certified training programs. Most Drug and Alcohol Counselor tracks complete in 1 to 4 years.
Earn your certification
Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a certification in Virginia.
Get hired in Virginia
With roughly thousands of Drug and Alcohol Counselor openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in Virginia.
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Frequently asked questions
The median salary for a Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Virginia is $59,880 per year, which is $28.79 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $39,728 while experienced Drug and Alcohol Counselors can earn up to $100,048 annually.
Next step
Find Drug and Alcohol Counselor Classes Near You
Enter your ZIP code to see accredited Drug and Alcohol Counselor classes in your area.