The state is spending$ 3 million in an effort to recruit and retain more substance abuse counselors amid a surge in drug abuse and overdoses that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Counselors have been in short supply as the need has grown, according to state officials.... Francis in Joliet, said counselors face a number of challenges, from figuring out appropriate treatments to changing the mindsets of people with addiction.“ The problem with drugs and alcohol is that it’s chemical-based....