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Correctional Counselor
Career Insights for Substance Abuse Counselor
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Based on Georgia data
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What they do
A Substance Abuse Counselor counsels people struggling with addictions to alcohol, drugs or other substances. Assists clients in dealing with personal and professional problems related to substance abuse. Collaborates with other health care and mental health care professionals to coordinate services for clients, and works with families of substance abusers. May work in a clinic, health care facility or community based program, or work with clients referred through the criminal justice system.
$25,776 / year median in Georgia
+23% projected growth
Job Description
- Provide counseling services : Deliver individual and group counseling to meet the unique needs of offenders, including behavioral health, substance use, and reentry planning.
- Case management : Coordinate services such as MH/MR case management, residential substance abuse treatment, and special needs programs.
- Risk and needs assessment : Conduct assessments to determine offender risk levels and tailor interventions accordingly
- Program management : Oversee cognitive behavioral programs, peer evaluation, and specialized reentry initiatives
- Specialized offender support : Address needs of Special Needs offenders, those with histories of abuse, and those requiring residential substance abuse treatment
Documentation :
Maintain accurate records, including intake, treatment plans, discharge summaries, and program participation logsCollaboration :
Work with other divisions (e.g., Health Services, Education, Reentry Services) and external agencies to ensure continuity of careCompliance :
Follow GDC SOPs, ACA standards, and applicable state statutes (e.g., O.C.G.A. §§ 19-13-1, 42-5-20) Training and Development- Complete Initial Correctional Counselor Training within the first 12 months of employment, even if rehired.
- Participate in ongoing staff development to maintain and improve service delivery skills. Supervision and Quality Assurance
- Participate in peer evaluations and competency assessments for cognitive behavioral programs.
- Ensure program delivery agreements are met and that services align with offender needs.