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.
Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. The Therapist is responsible for providing specialized individual and group therapies for those clients whose diagnosis includes the presence of mental health, co-occuring, and SUD. He or she could be also responsible for conducting Chemical Dependency Evaluations and working closely with other treatment team members to address the client's alcohol/drug issues. He/she functions under the guidance of their licensure, registration and/or certification and in accordance with the regulations, rules, and requirements of State of Massachusetts and Federal government and accrediting organizations. Responsibilities Demonstrates knowledge of chemical dependency and addictions and utilizes knowledge and skills to access and meet the client's treatment needs and requirements. Documents on a regular basis within the electronic medical record - client chart. Facilitates team interaction for discharge planning regarding client chemical dependency issues and needs. Shares pertinent information with the treatment team as obtained from client, client's family members, or significant others. Participates as a team member in all treatment team meetings and provides input regarding clients and chemical abuse and dependency treatment needs and requirements. Discusses with clients relapse warning signs and relapse prevention techniques and strategies and develops plans accordingly. Documents bio psychosocial, ASAM, Master Treatment Plan in a clear, concise, timely manner. Documents provided services in progress notes in a clear, concise, timely manner. Assist the client(s) in developing measurable chemical dependency related discharge goals and objectives. Provides pertinent client information based on chemical dependency evaluation, and group and individual session interactions, to assist in the client treatment process. Assists in developing chemical abuse and dependency aspects of treatment plans and treatment plan updates in collaboration with other treatment team members. Acts as a liaison to community agencies providing chemical dependency and abuse services. Provides community awareness education and in-services on behalf of the agency. Knowledge of program policies and procedures. Shares pertinent information with the team as obtained from clients or family throughout the program. Collaborates with the medical staff to provide chemical dependency treatment services. Documents client progress/regression according to established policies and procedures Continues with educational courses and in-services training, per policies and procedures Updates knowledge of community resources on a continuous basis. Maintains CPR certification. Conducts chemical dependency group and individual counseling sessions. Ability to work as a team member, demonstrating maturity under stress and objectivity. Performs in a professional manner and role models a positive image of mental health. Reports abuse of clients' rights immediately. Participates in obtaining the client's informed consent for procedures, treatments, and research, as appropriate. Participates in Performance Improvement monitoring and evaluating activities. Acts decisively and effectively in managing staff, clients, and other employees during emergency situations. Recognizes and acknowledges and treats co-occurring issues by helping clients to adhere to medication management as well as established protocols for different diagnoses. Perform Case Management duties in absence of Case Manager Minimum Education & Experience Master's Degree in Human Service related field w/ minimum of 1 yr experience, Bachelor's Degree in related field w/ minimum of 2 yr experience, Or a recognized certification or licensure including 4,000 hours of clinically supervised counseling of individuals with substance use disorders including at least 220 documented hours of supervision. LICSW or LMHC is required, with a strong background in Mental Health at least 2 years experience is preferred. Merrimack Valley Behavioral Health is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability or any other protected category. Women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
