Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 2 (9%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 5 (22%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 16 (70%)

• Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients' histories and progress, services provided, or other required information.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Attend training sessions to increase knowledge and skills.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Follow progress of discharged patients to determine effectiveness of treatments.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Develop client treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Plan or implement follow-up or aftercare programs for clients to be discharged from treatment programs.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Provide clients or family members with information about addiction issues and about available services or programs, making appropriate referrals when necessary.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Develop, implement, or evaluate public education, prevention, or health promotion programs, working in collaboration with organizations, institutions, or communities.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Counsel clients or patients, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Conduct chemical dependency program orientation sessions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Review and evaluate clients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Coordinate activities with courts, probation officers, community services, or other post-treatment agencies.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Modify treatment plans to comply with changes in client status.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Coordinate counseling efforts with mental health professionals or other health professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or social workers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Intervene as an advocate for clients or patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Interview clients, review records, and confer with other professionals to evaluate individuals' mental and physical condition and to determine their suitability for participation in a specific program.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Instruct others in program methods, procedures, or functions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Participate in case conferences or staff meetings.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Act as liaisons between clients and medical staff.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Train or supervise student interns or new staff members.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Counsel family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with, and supporting clients or patients.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Confer with family members or others close to clients to keep them informed of treatment planning and progress.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Supervise or direct other workers providing services to clients or patients.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors and AI