Online Degrees in Addiction Counseling

Q: What is substance use counseling?

Substance use counseling is a specialized form of support focused on helping individuals cope with addiction. It employs therapeutic techniques like motivational interviewing and relapse prevention strategies, addressing the physical, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of addiction.

Q: Are online addiction counseling programs worth it?

Online addiction counseling degrees offer valuable flexibility for those preparing for careers in the field. These programs teach essential skills, including client assessment and case management. Graduates may be positioned to pursue roles such as substance use disorder counselors or pursue further credentials for licensure, depending on state regulations.

Q: What is an addiction counselor?

An addiction counselor is a trained professional who provides guidance to individuals struggling with substance use and addictive disorders. They work in various settings, including treatment centers and community programs, facilitating group therapy, developing treatment plans and coordinating support services.

Q: What degree is best for addiction counseling?

The ideal degree path for aspiring addiction counselors varies based on career goals and licensure requirements. Many individuals begin with a bachelor's degree in counseling, often with an emphasis on addiction and then pursue a master's degree in addiction counseling. It's essential to check specific state qualifications in the state where you plan to practice.

Overview

Gain Tools To Support Recovery and Behavioral Change

Grand Canyon University’s online^{(See disclaimer 1)} degrees in addiction counseling can equip you with essential knowledge and skills to support individuals and families impacted by substance use and co-occurring disorders. The flexible online format covers foundational concepts and practical techniques, emphasizing evidence-based counseling, trauma-informed care and ethical decision making.

The programs focus on relapse prevention, evidence-based practices (including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy among others) and group therapy facilitation, fostering recovery and community mental health. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your credentials, GCU’s programs can prepare you for a career as a substance use counselor.

Programs

Explore Online Addiction Counseling Programs

Our online addiction counseling programs can help students build a solid academic foundation in behavioral health and substance use disorders. Whether you’re starting with an undergraduate degree or enhancing your skills with a graduate certificate or master’s degree, we have flexible online options that cater to your goals.

The faith-integrated curriculum of these programs focuses on essential counseling concepts, cultural competency and recovery support. With options ranging from bachelor’s degrees to graduate programs, GCU aims to prepare you for licensure and a potential career in substance use disorder counseling.

Bachelor's Degrees

GCU offers bachelor’s degrees that concentrate on addiction counseling. The Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science with an Emphasis in Substance Use Disorders explores behavioral health principles, prevention strategies and co-occurring disorders education. The Bachelor of Science in Counseling with an Emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency and Substance Use focuses on evidence-based counseling techniques.

Both programs incorporate a Christian worldview and can prepare students for advanced degrees or counselor certification and licensure, as required by state regulations.

BS in Behavioral Health Science

Substance Use Disorders

BS in Counseling

Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Use

Master's Programs

GCU’s online graduate degrees that concentrate on addiction counseling can equip students with advanced skills for assessing and treating substance use and addictive disorders. The Master of Science in Addiction Counseling emphasizes the development of clinical knowledge and competencies through a combination of academic instruction and practical experience, with a focus on ethical decision-making and working with diverse populations in mental health settings.

For those seeking a faith-based perspective, the Master of Science in Christian Counseling with a specialization in Substance Use and Addictive Disorders combines theological insights with evidence-based practices to promote personal spiritual growth.

Certificate Programs

The Post-Master of Science in Counseling Certificate is an online program designed for individuals with a graduate degree in counseling or related fields. This certificate can help experienced professionals enhance their skills in substance use disorder counseling, focusing on co-occurring disorders and treatment dynamics. By completing the program, participants can improve their qualifications in addiction counseling.

Post-MS in Counseling

Addiction Counseling Certificate

Careers

Addiction Counseling Career Outlook

The need for qualified addiction and substance use disorder counselors is increasing as communities grapple with drug and alcohol misuse. Graduates may find opportunities to serve diverse populations, and with experience, some may advance to supervisory, administrative or private practice roles, depending on state certification and licensure. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates job growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors to increase by about 19% from 2023 to 2033, faster than average, estimating about 84,500 new jobs for these professionals during this period.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}

Our online addiction counseling programs can prepare graduates to pursue roles in various professional environments that serve individuals and communities affected by substance use.

These may include:

Inpatient and outpatient treatment centers

Hospitals

Mental health clinics

Private practices

Residential treatment facilities

Correctional facilities

Community health organizations

19%

Estimated growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors expected from 2023 to 2033, according to the BLS^{(See disclaimer 2)}

$59,190

Median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors in May 2024, according to the BLS^{(See disclaimer 3)}

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering Grand Canyon University’s online addiction counseling degrees, you will likely have questions. Here, you’ll find answers to common inquiries. For personalized support, we encourage you to connect with a university counselor.

What is substance use counseling?

Are online addiction counseling programs worth it?

What is an addiction counselor?

What degree is best for addiction counseling?

Why GCU

Prepare To Help Individuals Facing Substance Use Challenges

At GCU, you will find an academic community dedicated to supporting your purpose-driven path. Our online addiction counseling degrees are designed to prepare you with the knowledge and tools necessary to address the complex realities of substance use and addictive disorders. We offer courses that reflect the multifaceted nature of addiction counseling.

You will be taught to approach counseling from both clinical and ethical perspectives, with a focus on compassionate, whole-person care. Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to student support services and experienced faculty who are committed to your academic and spiritual development. Whether your goals include working in inpatient and outpatient treatment settings, community mental health or recovery support services, you can enjoy a learning environment that fosters growth and purpose.

Admission Requirements

We aim to make the admission process clear and accessible for those pursuing their educational goals. Our university counselors are ready to assist you when you’re ready to apply for a bachelor’s, master’s or post-master’s program that focus on addiction counseling. Admission requirements, which vary by program, helps ensure that students are adequately prepared for their studies.

Typically, applicants must submit transcripts, meet GPA standards and for graduate programs, possess a relevant undergraduate or advanced degree. Some programs may require additional materials. For more details on admission criteria and the application process, please see our admission requirements.

Accreditation

Grand Canyon University has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968, reflecting our commitment to quality academic programs, including addiction counseling degrees. This rigorous accreditation process ensures we meet high standards in academic integrity, student support, faculty qualifications and continuous improvement.

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences aligns its programmatic accreditation with these standards to promote strong learning outcomes and preparation for careers in the field.

Interactive Learning Platform

GCU’s interactive online learning platform keeps you connected, engaged and supported with a dynamic learning experience. Our Learning Management System enables you to access course materials, participate in weekly discussions and collaborate on assignments within a user-friendly virtual environment. The platform includes features such as peer forums and direct messaging, allowing you to interact with classmates and faculty, ask questions and share insights all on our online format.

Resources

Online Student Resources

As an online student at GCU, you can benefit from resources to support your academic and personal growth. Our digital tools, including interactive eBooks and guided learning modules, can help you stay organized and focused. You'll also have access to 24/7 technical support and personalized assistance from student services counselors. Key resources, including the Student Success Center and online library are available to enhance your experience in our online addiction counseling programs.

Online Scholarships

Online Tuition

Make a Difference in Addiction Recovery

Discover GCU’s online addiction counseling programs and learn how to support recovery in your community.

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Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.
COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2023, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors, retrieved June 11, 2025.
The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder and Mental Health Counselors as of May 2024, retrieved June 11, 2025. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). Substance Use Disorder Treatment. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved June 9, 2025.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, May 15). Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved June 9, 2025.