Median pay
$60,280
per year
U.S. jobs
132,810
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
Typical entry
BSW for support roles; clinical counseling requires a master's and clinical license
Bachelor license
Usually not for support roles (a specialty certification may apply)
What Does a Behavioral-Health and Substance-Use Support Specialist Do?
Behavioral-health support specialists help people recovering from mental illness and substance-use disorders by coordinating care, facilitating psychoeducation and recovery groups, supporting medication adherence, and connecting clients to treatment and housing. BSW-level roles focus on support and case management; diagnosis and psychotherapy require a master's degree and a clinical license. Some states or employers also require a substance-use counselor certification.
Work Settings and Employers in This Career
- Community mental-health centers
- Substance-use and recovery programs
- Crisis and stabilization services
- Residential and supportive housing
- Peer-support and harm-reduction programs
What a Typical Workday Involves
- Screen and assess client needs
- Coordinate treatment and recovery plans
- Facilitate support, skills, and psychoeducation groups
- Connect clients to detox, treatment, and housing
- Monitor progress and respond to crises
- Document services and coordinate with clinicians
How a BSW Prepares You for This Career
A BSW prepares you for behavioral-health case-management and support roles. To diagnose or provide psychotherapy, you would earn an MSW and a clinical license. Some employers value or require an additional substance-use counselor credential.
Compare programs in our national BSW ranking and state-by-state rankings, or check your state's licensing rules on the credentials page.
Advancing to clinical, supervisory, or fully licensed roles in this field usually requires a master's.
What Is the Pay and Job Outlook for Behavioral-Health and Substance-Use Specialists in 2026?
The BLS counts behavioral-health and substance-use support specialist jobs under the category Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers, which reported a median wage of $60,280 per year and about 132,810 jobs nationwide (May 2025). The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment to grow 10% from 2023 to 2033. Wages vary by state, setting, and experience.
Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025; BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook. National, cross-industry figures.