Substance Use Counselor

Counselor

Job Summary

Counselors provide intake, assessment, and therapeutic services for individuals with substance use disorders or co-occurring mental health disorders and their families. This role involves developing individualized treatment plans, offering counseling sessions, and ensuring timely documentation of all client interactions. The counselor works collaboratively with staff and community stakeholders to support client recovery while adhering to ethical standards and maintaining compliance with agency policies and regulations. Regular participation in staff meetings and professional development is essential for continued excellence in service delivery.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Develops and manages intake and admission procedures tailored to meet the needs of clients across all programs.
• Collaborates with clients to assess individual problem areas, develop treatment plans, and provide appropriate counseling services, including individual, family, or group therapy.
• Completes client charting and documentation in a timely, professional, and accurate manner, ensuring legibility and adherence to agency standards.
• Meets and maintains established expectations for direct client interaction, ensuring optimal use of time for therapeutic interventions.
• Ensures compliance with office policies and procedures, including client billing practices.
• Actively participates in peer reviews, utilization reviews, agency staff meetings, and in-service trainings to maintain clinical excellence.
• Builds strong rapport with clients, families, staff, and community stakeholders, projecting a positive public relations image for the agency.
• Upholds professional ethics and client confidentiality, including knowledge of client rights and grievance procedures.
• Works professionally with peers and other staff in a team-based approach to client care.
• Maintains up-to-date licensure and certification in accordance with professional requirements.
• May transport residential clients as assigned by supervisor. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a human services field required; Master’s degree in Counseling or Social Work preferred.
• Must hold appropriate licensure such as CDCA, LPC, LPCC, LSW, LISW, or LICDC. (condition of employment)
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in substance use disorder (SUD) counseling, including assessment, treatment planning, and individual, family, and group counseling.
• Strong understanding of substance use disorder, family illness models, community resources, and treatment modalities.
• Proficiency in computer literacy required.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, with strong organizational skills.
• Minimum 2 years in a personal recovery program, if applicable.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and off-site as required.

Working conditions

In this role you may work with or be exposed to individuals experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. The environment may involve interacting with clients who exhibit a range of behaviors associated with their conditions, including emotional distress, unpredictability, and challenges in communication.