Going through an interview is probably the most difficult time in our life.
But, since you do not have a choice but to go through the process if you want to obtain a job, preparation is what you should be concentrating on.
For an addiction counselor position, the following set of interview questions and answers will suffice in preparing you:
Addiction Counselor Interview Questions and Answers
What motivated you to decide upon making a career out of addiction counseling?
I have always felt very strong about drug abuse issues, and even as a teenager, I volunteered my services several times to help people combat their drug addiction issues, on a one on one basis, and with communities. This led to further interest in this field, leading me to train in this arena, and work towards contributing to the society.
What is the one thing that you feel is absolutely necessary before you begin a counseling session?
I believe that earning clients’ trust is of the utmost importance before you begin evaluating them.
And how do you earn your clients’ trust?
Each client is different, which means that I have to deal with each one of them in a separate manner. To earn their trust, I resort to many tactics, including being the silent listener, or a storyteller.
What inherent skills do you believe one needs in order to become successful addiction counselor?
I believe that compassion and kindness come first. You have to be non-judgmental when you are dealing with clients, who are already going through a bad time. Being patient is also important, and it is imperative to be a great listener and communicator as well.
What has been your most difficult case until now?
I was once asked to provide counseling to a 7-year-old girl who was a victim of passive drug smoking – and was addicted to it. When social services pulled her out and brought her to me, it took all the expertise that I had to free her from the torment of withdrawal. This I believe was the most difficult case that I have handled.
How do you manage not getting emotionally attached to your clients?
It’s an everyday struggle that I have managed to master somewhat, and I am working to master what is left. It is natural to feel an affinity for the clients that you spend so much time with, but I have managed to stay detached till now.