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Shift Counseling Services
Mental Health and Substance Use Counselor
Career Insights for Mental / Behavioral Health Counselor
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Based on Colorado data
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What they do
A Mental or Behavioral Health Counselor works with patients to treat mental health problems. Assesses patients and assists with diagnosis, counseling and crisis intervention. Consults with nurses, doctors and psychiatrists. May work with specific populations, such as youth, senior citizens or substance abusers, in group settings, facilities or hospitals.
$39,805 / year median in Colorado
+15% projected growth
Job Description
Overview Join our dedicated team as a Mental Health and Substance Use Counselor, where you will play a vital role in providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health and addiction care. In this dynamic position, you will assess, treat, and support individuals facing behavioral health challenges, including co-occurring disorders, with a focus on fostering recovery and resilience. Your expertise will help empower clients to achieve their mental wellness goals while ensuring compliance with clinical standards and confidentiality regulations. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in diverse communities through innovative therapeutic practices. Duties Conduct comprehensive client assessments using diagnostic tools such as DSM-5 criteria and ICD coding to develop personalized treatment plans. Deliver individual and group therapy sessions utilizing evidence-based practices including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques. Provide specialized counseling for substance use disorders, including addiction medicine and recovery support strategies. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate case management, home & community care, and hospital-based services for clients with complex needs. Maintain accurate clinical documentation adhering to medical documentation standards, HIPAA regulations, and electronic health records (EHR/EHR) management protocols. Engage in ongoing research and data collection efforts to improve treatment outcomes and support clinical decision-making. Experience Proven experience working with individuals with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or co-occurring disorders in clinical settings such as hospitals, community clinics, or behavioral health programs. Demonstrated expertise in psychotherapy modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), applied behavior analysis (ABA), and client assessment in therapy. Familiarity with medical terminology, mental health diagnostic evaluation tools, CPT coding, ICD coding (ICD-9/ICD-10), and working within clinical documentation standards. Experience working with diverse cultural backgrounds and adapting treatment approaches accordingly. Knowledge of HIPAA compliance, maintaining patient confidentiality, and managing electronic health records (EHR) systems effectively. Additional skills in social work principles, patient care strategies, addiction counseling techniques, and working with children & families are highly valued. Join us to be part of a passionate team committed to transforming lives through compassionate mental health and substance use counseling!