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Job Description
At New Directions Northwest in Baker City, becoming a Drug and Alcohol Counselor isn't just a job-it's a calling. Every day, our counselors help change lives, restore hope, and strengthen our community. Addiction touches families, workplaces, and futures, but through compassion, skill, and commitment, our team helps individuals take their first steps toward recovery and long-term wellness. New Directions is proud to offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits , recognizing the importance of supporting those who dedicate their careers to helping others. We invest in our team's professional growth, provide a positive and supportive work environment, and ensure that our employees are valued both personally and professionally. If you're looking for a career where your work truly matters-and where you're rewarded for your dedication-there's no better place to make a difference than New Directions Northwest in Baker City. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. Client Services Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial and diagnostic assessments utilizing DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and ASAM Criteria to determine level of care and individualized treatment needs. Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized treatment and service plans per
OAR 309-018-0135
(2). Provide evidence-based individual and group counseling interventions (CBT, MI, DBT, relapse prevention, etc.). Facilitate psychoeducational and process groups supporting recovery, relapse prevention, and behavioral change. Engage family members or supports as clinically appropriate. Participate in discharge planning and aftercare coordination to ensure continuity of care and transition to community-based supports. 2. Documentation & Recordkeeping Maintain timely, accurate, and complete records per
OAR 309-018-0105.
Document assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharges within agency timelines. Ensure documentation for re-authorization processes is completed accurately and submitted promptly to maintain client continuity of care and reimbursement compliance. Safeguard all client information under HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2. Participate in internal chart reviews and quality improvement activities. 3. Urinalysis (UA) Administration Conduct urinalysis testing consistent with OAR 309-018 and agency protocol. Maintain integrity of the collection process, ensuring privacy and adherence to chain-of-custody procedures. Accurately document results and report abnormal findings to the supervisor. Store samples securely and maintain confidentiality and dignity throughout. 4. Medication Administration Support medication administration in collaboration with licensed medical staff per
OAR 309-018-0170.
Document all administrations, refusals, and side effects accurately in the Medication Administration Record (MAR). Verify counts, ensure secure storage, and report discrepancies immediately. Educate clients regarding medication adherence and related program policies. 5. Personal, Property, and Random Room Searches Conduct personal and property searches upon admission, re-entry, or as clinically indicated under
OAR 309-018-0135
(3)(h). Perform random room checks to maintain facility safety and compliance with program rules. Use trauma-informed, respectful, and gender-sensitive procedures at all times. Document all searches, findings, and resulting actions per agency policy. Preserve client dignity and privacy during all search activities. 6. Training & Competency Requirements Complete all orientation and continuing trainings per OAR 309-018-0125, including: Trauma-Informed Care Ethics & Boundaries (MHACBO-approved) Cultural Competency / DEI
HIPAA / 42 CFR
Part 2 Confidentiality Crisis Intervention & De-Escalation Suicide Prevention & Safety Planning Infection Control & Sanitation CPR / First Aid (if required by program) Receive regular clinical supervision with a CADC II or qualified supervisor per
OAR 309-018-0125
(4). Maintain active MHACBO registration or certification and required continuing education. 7. Professional Conduct & Ethics Follow the MHACBO Code of Conduct and Ethics at all times. Maintain clear ethical boundaries and strict confidentiality per OAR, HIPAA, and 42 CFR Part 2. Model integrity, accountability, professionalism, and cultural humility. Report ethical or clinical concerns promptly to supervision. 8. Safety, Compliance & Facility Support Maintain a safe, therapeutic environment consistent with
OAR 309-018-0200.
Enforce program rules, respond appropriately to crises, and document incidents accurately. Identify and report facility safety or maintenance concerns. Participate in emergency drills and follow all infection-control standards. 9. Attendance & BOLI Compliance Regular, in-person attendance is an essential function of this position. Arrive on time for assigned shifts, meetings, and trainings. Take all required meal and rest breaks under
BOLI OAR 839-020.
Approve timecards on schedule and communicate absences promptly. Request accommodations as needed per
ADA / ORS 659A.103. 10.
Collaboration & Communication Participate in multidisciplinary meetings, case reviews, and supervision. Communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and external partners. Foster teamwork, respect, and trauma-informed collaboration across disciplines. Work Environment Conducted in a licensed residential facility with 24-hour client supervision. Requires regular in-person attendance; may include weekends or holidays. Physical demands include walking, standing, lifting = 25 lbs, and light cleaning duties.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
New Directions Northwest specializes in helping people with alcohol, drug and gambling addictions, mental health, developmental disabilities and prevention services to individuals from Baker County, and throughout the state of Oregon. Serving Baker County since 1967.
