MIDDLEBURY — The Counseling Service of Addison County (CSAC) recently announced increases in base wage rates and current employee compensation as part of recruitment and retention efforts for employees doing critical work supporting thousands of Addison County residents. 

Wages for direct entry staff now start at $17 per hour or higher. Clinicians start at $51,000 – $59,000 annually. CSAC is especially focused on the recruitment and retention of direct care professionals, emergency services clinicians, residential program staff, school-based staff, and mental health clinicians. 

“We have faith that CSAC’s decision to increase base wages will attract those who find themselves drawn to meaningful careers focused on helping others,” said CSAC Executive Director Rachel Lee Cummings. “Many people are called to work in social services but just haven’t been able to make ends meet given the low rates of pay.”

Cummings also noted that staff who live and work in Addison County also shop here. With CSAC being one of the largest employers in the county, the agency’s $1.7 million investment in salaries will benefit the local businesses and economy. 

“Staff at CSAC have performed incredible work over the last two years, keeping our doors open during the pandemic, providing in-person services under extremely difficult conditions, and delivering top-notch mental health, substance use, and developmental services,” she said. “We are proud of this investment in staff pay.”  

To learn more call CSAC at 802-388-6751.