Improving the Recruitment and Retention of Counselors in Rural Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs

While access to drug treatment has increased in recent years, there is still a shortage of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment counselors in the United States, especially in rural areas. This study examined recruitment and retention issues for counselors in rural substance use disorder treatment programs. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 26 program, clinical, and/or human resource directors of SUD treatment programs. Almost all interviewees had problems recruiting high-quality counselors although only a small number saw retention as a significant issue. Improving educational opportunities and training related to addictions counseling could result in more people entering the SUD treatment field. Strategies for improving retention of counselors include more supportive and inclusive management practices. The stigma of SUD also contributed to recruitment and retention problems.

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Work Title Improving the Recruitment and Retention of Counselors in Rural Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs
Access
Open Access
Creators
  1. Jennifer Murphy
Keyword
  1. Counselors
  2. Recruitment
  3. Retention
  4. Stigma
  5. Substance use disorder treatment
License In Copyright (Rights Reserved)
Work Type Article
Publisher
  1. Journal of Drug Issues
Publication Date March 4, 2022
Publisher Identifier (DOI)
  1. https://doi.org/10.1177/00220426221080204
Deposited July 25, 2022

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Version 1
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  • Created
  • Added Improving_recruitment_and_retention_JDI_2022.pdf
  • Added Creator Jennifer Murphy
  • Published
  • Updated Keyword, Publication Date Show Changes
    Keyword
    • Counselors, Recruitment, Retention, Stigma, Substance use disorder treatment
    Publication Date
    • 2022-07-01
    • 2022-03-04
  • Updated