SUD Counselor I

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision and direction of the Program Manager, the SUD Counselor I will provide SUD treatment and case management to adults and facilitate psychoeducational and life skills groups. The SUD Counselor I will be responsible for maintaining a caseload of individual clients for case management services and facilitating evidence-based curriculum in a group setting. Caseload responsibilities include completing intakes, ASAM screenings and assessments, case management, and referrals. This SUD Counselor I will operate in a multi-disciplinary team and will work independently but consult on all cases with their supervisor. Conducts intake interviews; administer ASAM screenings and assessments; obtains background and financial information; collects fees; assigns clients to specific programs or counselors; observes client progress. Plans and conducts group counseling sessions; assesses and develops case management plans collaboratively with clients. Maintains a caseload of clientele for case management and provide active and comprehensive case management services ensuring all area needs are attended to, including mental health, SUD, social, physical, family, financial, employment, etc. Ensures appropriate and comprehensive up-to-date documentation within an electronic health record (EHR) system. Works collaboratively with Champions staff and referring parties and service providers. Conduct intakes and assessments using the American Society for Addiction Medicine (ASAM) assessment. Participates in staff meetings, to address client needs, program issues, and assist in the integration of services for clientele. Facilitates psychoeducational groups and classes, as deemed appropriate by management. Maintains program data entry and attendance tracking. Provides case management to link clients to various resources and coordinate services with other providers. Provides integration of all service divisions of the program, specifically acting as a bridge between disciplines such as mental health, primary care providers, Child Welfare Services, and Probation. Develops and provide discharge planning sessions with clients as treatment comes to closure Develops and maintains cooperative work relationships with community agencies and partners, including client connections to outside agencies (i.e., court hearings, open CPS cases and requirements, etc.). Determines appropriate services available through Champions programs and/or referral to other community agencies. Conducts urinalysis and breath testing of clients, as needed. Serves as the main point of contact for all clients and relay client needs to the appropriate channels. Participates in applicable meetings, trainings, conferences, etc. as required both internally and externally. Remains culturally humble and respectful in all client and staff interactions. Adheres to all client confidentiality requirements and standards, including updates of the shared Release of Information (ROI) to ensure that information is current and accurate. Comfortable performing various projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities. Ability to get along with diverse personalities, understanding, mature, and flexible. Possess strong judgment, problem-solving and reasoning abilities. Performs other duties as assigned. Education and/or

Work Experience Requirements:

Certified as a SUD counselor by one of the DHCS-approved certifying organizations (OR) Must be registered by one of the DHCS-approved SUD counselor certifying organizations and maintain their registration throughout their employment. Will receive formal supervision from an on-site qualified staff as recognized by the State of California. BA in social work, psychology, or related field plus 1 years of experience serving individuals with justice-involvement, SUD, and/or mental illness; or AA in social work, psychology, or related field plus 2 years of relevant experience; and/or 3 years of relevant experience may be substituted. Priority will be given to applicants with 1-2 years of work experience in a counseling or treatment setting with clients struggling with substance use, mental health, and criminal justice system involvement.

Note:

Personal lived experience may contribute to these years of experience. Examples of work experience that may count include but are not limited to: working in an outpatient or residential drug treatment setting, working at a sober living environment or Aftercare housing, working in jails, working in other peer-to-peer recovery programs, working in a DUI program or other psychoeducational program. Must have valid California Class C Driver's License; maintain a good safety record (verified by DMV at hire and periodically) and a reliable vehicle; proof of comprehensive auto insurance if driving personal vehicle. Must be able to drive (when needed) their own vehicle for business purposes to other program locations in Kings and Tulare County. Must be drug tested prior to hire, with drug test results negative for illegal drug use and marijuana. Must pass background check ( Live Scan Fingerprint - MANDATORY ). Must maintain a waiver to provide treatment services with the

CDCR STOP

Program during employment with Champions. Must have TB clearance within 60 days prior to hire ( MANDATORY ). First Aid and CPR certifications obtained within 30 days of employment and maintain current thereafter. Ability to understand and interpret information, follow instructions, and manage workflow. Basic knowledge and skills with computer keyboarding and computer programs. Advanced office management practices and operating procedures. Able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, apply professional judgement in solving difficult issues, and to communicate in a clear, precise, and professional manner.

Strong Interpersonal skills:

ability to work effectively with people in a constructive manner within a community-based treatment setting. Must have flexibility to work weekend hours during scheduled client activities. Applicant must submit appropriate background check clearance and be able to pass Tulare County Sheriff jail clearance to provide in custody services for coverage needs. Recovering individuals must have a minimum two years clean, sober, and abstinent to be considered for employment. Must be free of probation or parole supervision for a minimum of one year.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to perform the essential job functions consistent safely and successfully with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards. Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs. Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone

Working Conditions:

Interfaces with all levels of management, staff, clients, residents, and families including community partners. Services may involve travel to offsite locations.