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.
Job Overview We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Substance Abuse Counselor to join our dynamic behavioral health team. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive counseling services to individuals struggling with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and related behavioral challenges. Your expertise will guide clients through recovery, foster resilience, and promote lasting positive change. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of incarcerated populations while working within an evidence-based, client-centered framework. You will be instrumental in conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and delivering therapeutic interventions that adhere to clinical standards and confidentiality protocols. Duties Conduct thorough client assessments utilizing diagnostic tools such as DSM-5 criteria and ICD coding to evaluate substance use and co-occurring disorders Develop individualized treatment plans incorporating evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and behavioral therapy techniques Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions focused on addiction medicine, substance abuse counseling, and relapse prevention strategies Perform crisis intervention and crisis management to support clients experiencing acute distress or emergencies Provide case management services to support holistic recovery efforts within a prison environment Maintain accurate clinical documentation adhering to medical documentation standards, HIPAA regulations, and electronic health records (EHR/EHR) management protocols Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate patient care, conduct diagnostic evaluations, and ensure compliance with clinical documentation standards Qualifications Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, substance abuse counseling, or a related field; Master's degree preferred Valid licensure or certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor (e.g.,CIT, RAC, CAC, LAC, PSS ) or equivalent credential recognized by state licensing boards Proven experience working with individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions Strong knowledge of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, ICD coding (ICD-9/10), and evidence-based practices in addiction counseling Proficiency in clinical documentation standards, medical terminology, EMR/EHR systems, and HIPAA compliance Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds Experience in crisis intervention, crisis management, and behavioral health treatment planning is highly desirable Join our team if you are passionate about empowering individuals on their path to recovery! We value energetic professionals committed to making a difference through compassionate care and innovative treatment approaches. This paid position offers the chance to grow your skills in a supportive environment.
