SUD Counselor

Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Counselor Job Code:

SUD - 114

Revision Date:

January 15, 2026

Starting Salary :

$21.52 hourly; $44,768 annually

FLSA :

Non-Exempt Overview We are an agency committed to innovative behavioral health services in trauma-informed care that promote healing and recovery to instill a sense of empowerment and foster a lifelong sense of resilience. General Description SUD Counselor is responsible for delivering comprehensive, client-centered care to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. This role includes conducting screenings, assessments, intakes, treatment planning, counseling, and discharge planning. The LCDC or Counselor Intern evaluates the severity of clients' substance use and assesses psychosocial, emotional, behavioral, and environmental factors affecting recovery. The counselor provides both individual and group counseling services, facilitates the development of personalized treatment goals, and utilizes evidence-based interventions techniques. The position also involves coordinating referrals to clinical, medical, psychiatric, and community support services to ensure continuity of care. The counselor collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as necessary, and support clients throughout their recovery journey . Duties and Responsibilities The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary. Conduct comprehensive substance use screenings and diagnostic assessments. Complete intake documentation and develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients. Facilitate individual, group, and family counseling sessions using approved therapeutic methods. Monitor client progress and revise treatment plans as needed to address evolving needs. Develop and implement discharge and aftercare plans to support long-term recovery. Provide crisis intervention and support as necessary. Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in compliance with regulatory standards. Collaborate with case managers, healthcare providers, probation/parole officers, and other relevant stakeholders. Educate clients and families about substance use, recovery, and relapse prevention strategies. Assist clients with navigating access to community resources, such as housing, employment, mental health services, and support groups. Participate in case conferences, staff meetings, training, and professional development activities. Ensure compliance with ethical, legal, and professional standards of car Performs other duties as assigned. Minimum Education and Experience Requirements Requires an Associate's Degree in Health or Human Services, Social Services, Rehabilitation, Emergency Management or related field, supplemented by one (1) year of experience as a chemical dependency or mental health counselor or closely related field; or possession of any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities. Requires to be certified. Required Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of trauma-informed theories, principles, and practices (includes multi-faceted understanding of concepts such as community trauma, intergenerational and historical trauma, parallel processes, and universal precautions), preferred. Physical Demands Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations. Unavoidable Hazards (Work Environment) Involves routine and frequent exposure to: Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen. Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions. Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife. Vibration; Fumes and/or noxious odors. Traffic; Moving machinery. Electrical shock; Heights. Radiation; Disease/pathogens. Toxic/caustic chemicals; Explosives; Violence. Other extreme hazards not listed above. Special Certifications and Licenses Requires a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) registered in the state of Texas. Must possess and maintain a valid state Driver's License with an acceptable driving record. Must be able to pass a TB, criminal background and drug screen. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Emergence Health Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires Emergence Health Network to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management. Other Job Characteristics Staffing requirements, including criteria that staff have diverse disciplinary backgrounds, have necessary State required license and accreditation, and are culturally and linguistically trained to serve the needs of the clinic's patient population. Credentialed, certified, and licensed professionals with adequate training in person-centered, family centered, trauma informed, culturally-competent and recovery-oriented care. Responsible for adhering to the EHN common purpose and service framework to continuously provide exceptional care to all constituents.

Note:

This Class Description does not constitute an employment agreement between the Emergence Health Network and an employee and is subject to change by the Emergence Health Network as its needs change.