Substance abuse nurse

A substance abuse or addiction nurse helps patients who are addicted to drugs, alcohol and other substances.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$79,000

ZipRecruiter (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

Independent

Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.

What is the role of a substance abuse nurse?

You’ll be trained in general medicine and mental health to help patients over the physical and psychological obstacles of their addiction.

Close up of a nurse typing something in on a monitor in front of a male patient in hospital bed

Where you’ll work as a substance abuse nurse

Substance abuse nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Community health clinics
Mental health clinics
Psychiatric wards in hospitals
Substance abuse treatment centers

How to become a substance abuse nurse

Get an Associate’s Degrees in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining 2,000 hours of experience and 30 hours’ continuing education in Substance Abuse.

You’re ready to work as a substance abuse nurse!