there is no comprehensive data available on the percentage of drug and alcohol counselors who are in recovery or have been in recovery from substance abuse. The field of addiction counseling is diverse, and counselors come from various backgrounds and experiences.
Some counselors might have personal experience with addiction and choose to enter the field to help others based on their own recovery journey. Others may not have a history of addiction but are passionate about supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse.
It's worth noting that being in recovery can offer unique insights and empathy for clients going through similar challenges, but it is not a requirement for becoming a drug and alcohol counselor. Education, training, and professional competence are critical factors in the effectiveness of any counselor, regardless of personal history.
If you're interested in more current and specific data on this topic, I recommend reaching out to professional organizations or academic institutions in the field of addiction counseling to see if they have conducted any recent surveys or research on the demographics of drug and alcohol counselors.