Substance Use Counselor
Position Overview
The Substance Use Counselor is responsible for the development and implementation of strategies for client change utilizing individual and group counseling as the major tools to assist the individual’s growth in the intrapersonal, interpersonal and social development areas.
As the primary counselor in a multi-discipline treatment setting, the Counselor must be attuned, aware and informed as to program member participation and progress (e.g., medical, social services, educational vocational and activities, external referrals, etc.) in other aspects.
Responsibilities
- Facilitate individual and group sessions for substance use/ mental health/ co-occurring disorders/ medication management/ and other outlying subjects related to this population
- Work with clients to improve life choices and maximize benefits of program
- Display sensitivity to cultural and linguistical needs of clients served
- Participates in weekly multidisciplinary team meetings
- Attends weekly supervision with 822 Program Director or Clinical Supervisor and follow through on any
directives - Completes notes, assessments, treatment plans and discharge planning in a timely manner
- Conduct intakes, admission screening and assessments to referred clients
- Participate in comprehensive service planning for each assigned client in collaboration with other
agencies - Collaboratively develop individualize recovery plans and monthly updates for each individual
- Enforce policies, procedures, rules and regulations at all times in a consistent manner and in keeping
with their intent regarding the delivery of services to the residents in care - Identify and assess clients at risk and provide crisis intervention for individuals as needed
- Adhere to the organizations Code of Ethics
- Supervise toxicology as needed
- Maintain up-to-date information/ reports in electronic medical records system
- Assist social workers to build, coordinate and lead programs supporting individuals with substance use
and co-occurring disorders - Ability to utilize the 12 step, self-help recovery services, harm reduction, motivational interviewing and
other models/ approaches as needed
Position Qualifications
- CASAC-T certification or higher
- Demonstrates organizational and communication skills which would enable effective interaction with
fellow team members, individuals/ clients/ families and the community. - Critical thinking and sound judgment skills are necessary.
- Candidate should possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral or Social Sciences and one (1) year
experience in drug rehabilitation or related service delivery system.
– OR –
Candidate should possess an Associate’s Degree in Behavioral or Social Sciences and two (2) years’ experience in substance abuse treatment or related service delivery system.
– OR –
High School Diploma and three (3) years paid experience in drug rehabilitation or related service delivery system.
Reporting Structure
The Counselor reports directly to the Clinical Outpatient Program Director
How to Apply
If you are interested in working at Reality House, please forward your resumé with cover letter indicating desired position and salary expectations via email only to employment@rhiny.org.