Demand for addiction counselors has accelerated significantly due to the opioid crisis, expanded insurance coverage of behavioral health services under the ACA, and growing awareness of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. The BLS projects +17% growth through 2034, significantly above average for all occupations. Credentialed counselors (CADC, CASAC, LAC) typically earn $5,000–$15,000 more annually than non-credentialed staff in equivalent roles. Career pathways include outpatient substance abuse treatment centers, residential treatment facilities, hospitals with behavioral health units, jails and correctional facilities, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and private practice (with additional licensure such as LCSW or LPC).