Substance Abuse Counselor​/Therapist; Certified​/Licensed & Entry Level - Wrightsville, GA

Are you interested in Substance Abuse Counseling and want to get certified for FREE?

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non‑profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. Operating through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters, the organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards.

Consider joining our team, where your impact can be truly meaningful. Our organization focuses on delivering high quality clinical services as a recognized leader in evidence‑based treatment proven to get results. By joining our team, you’ll have the chance to provide essential services to underserved populations, all while working for an organization that values you and aims to be an employer of choice.

You can expect to be part of a vibrant culture that emphasizes teamwork and professional growth. When you join us, you’ll discover personal and professional fulfillment by aligning your career with your values.

Perks of working in correctional healthcare:

• Opportunity to make a positive impact on a marginalized population
• Exposure to diverse patient demographics
• Focus on driving change, tracking progress, and improving care
• Development of skills in a unique healthcare setting

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors

Location: Johnson State Prison - 290 Donovan Harrison Rd. Wrightsville, GA 31096

Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday from 6:45 AM - 5:15pm (4-10 hour Shifts)

Gateway Foundation operates the Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Program at Johnson State Prison in Wrightsville, Georgia—known as “The House of Hope.” This structured, evidence-based program serves up to 384 justice‑involved adult men daily across two treatment units within a secure correctional setting. Our RSAT program delivers trauma‑informed, recovery‑oriented substance use treatment designed to promote accountability, personal growth, and long‑term recovery.

Through clinical services, skill development, and therapeutic engagement, our team helps individuals build a foundation for positive change and successful re‑entry into the community. Wrightsville is often called the friendliest little town in Georgia, offering small‑town charm and a supportive community environment. The nearby city of Dublin, GA (just a short drive away) provides additional housing options, amenities, and recreational opportunities.

The Substance Abuse Counselor I plays a key role in delivering structured, evidence-based treatment services to justice-involved individuals within the RSAT program. This position provides individual and group counseling using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches. Counselors maintain a caseload of up to 25 clients and work collaboratively with clinical supervisors and program leadership to support ethical practice, treatment engagement, and positive client outcomes.

This role is ideal for professionals seeking meaningful work in a mission-driven environment, along with structured support toward certification and career advancement.

Substance use treatment in correctional settings can be life-changing. As a counselor in the RSAT program, your work directly supports recovery, reduces recidivism, and helps individuals develop the tools needed for long‑term stability. Every group facilitated and every session conducted contributes to safer communities and stronger futures.

• Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed practices
• Maintain clinical documentation and treatment planning in accordance with program and DOC standards
• Manage a caseload of up to 25 clients (may exceed on occasion…