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Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Cover Letter Template

Professional template and example for Australian job applications

Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Cover Letter Example

Dear Hiring Manager, I’ve spent the last five years supporting clients through assessments and treatment planning in settings similar to [Company Name]. In that time I’ve learned how to balance listening with clear guidance, helping people move from admission to meaningful change. I’ve found that a practical, client centred approach matters most, and data from around 60 client sessions a month helps me stay focused on what’s working. I bring strong skills in conducting counselling interviews with individuals and families, and I’m comfortable coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to tailor rehabilitation plans. I keep my notes precise and my referrals timely, and I’m comfortable using standard intake tools and outcome measures. I’m confident in explaining options and supporting clients as they consider changes to attitudes and behaviours. One example sticks with me from a recent role at [Previous Company]. A client group project I led involved a mix of short and longer term cases, helping five participants move from denial to attending regular sessions within eight weeks. We looked at social needs, vocational factors, and community supports, and the overall engagement rate significantly improved. The conversations stayed focused on practical steps and small wins rather than labels. I’m available to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name] and support your clients with personalised, evidence informed care. I can start with a flexible schedule and am happy to meet for a coffee to talk through the role. Kind regards, [Your Name]

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What happens next: Our AI will match your skills to the job requirements, highlight relevant achievements, and create a compelling narrative that positions you as the ideal candidate.

Why This Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Cover Letter Works

Opening Paragraph

Hook with specific achievement + role alignment

Skills Match

Maps experience to job needs + company research

STAR Example

Situation-Task-Action-Result with numbers

Professional Close

Forward momentum + availability

Key Requirements for Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Roles

Essential Skills to Highlight

Make sure your cover letter demonstrates these key skills:

Needs AssessmentTreatment PlanningCounselling InterviewsInterpersonal SkillsBehavioural Change FacilitationAttitude and Behaviour GuidanceRehabilitation PlanningVocational AssessmentSocial Needs AssessmentCommunity EducationCall Centre CommunicationClient Centred Communication

Tip: Include specific examples of how you've used these skills in your STAR example paragraph.

Core Responsibilities to Address

Align your experience with these typical responsibilities:

  • Assess Client Needs for Treatment
  • Conduct Counselling Interviews with Individuals
  • Couples and Families
  • Assist with Understanding and Adjustment of Attitudes
  • Present Alternative Approaches and Discuss Potential for Change
  • ...and more

Tip: Reference 2-3 of these responsibilities when describing your relevant experience.

Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Cover Letter Best Practices

Structure (4 Paragraphs)

Opening (40-60 words): State the role and company, plus one compelling hook
Match (100-130 words): Map 2-3 achievements to their top requirements
Proof (80-100 words): One detailed STAR example with quantified results
Close (30-40 words): Confirm fit and invite discussion

Essential Requirements

  • • Length: 250-350 words (one A4 page)
  • • Australian English spelling and dates (DD/MM/YYYY)
  • • Address to specific person when possible
  • • No photos or personal details (DOB, etc.)

What Makes It Strong

  • • Specific achievements with numbers
  • • Company research in second paragraph
  • • Keywords from the job description
  • • Professional but personable tone

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • • Generic opening lines
  • • Repeating your CV chronologically
  • • Including salary unless asked
  • • Exceeding one page