Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counselor 1

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Job Location (Full Address):

601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

500133 Psychiatry SMH Crisis

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URC 207 H

Compensation Range:

$22.45 - $30.31

Responsibilities:

The CASAC 1 assigned to the CPEP provides counseling, crisis intervention, harm reduction and referral services to patients as a member of an interdisciplinary treatment team in an acute care setting for individuals dealing with mental health and/or substance use issues. Provides support and guidance for other CPEP staff in serving individuals with substance use issues. Fosters and enables a positive work environment by modeling the I CARE values.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Performs substance use evaluations by direct interview of persons presenting to CPEP.  Assesses chemical use history, including type, quantity, frequency and pattern of use and history of treatment efforts. Assesses patients for symptoms of psychological dependence, motivation for change, personal resources. Gathers family historical data concerning drug and alcohol usage. Completes written documentation in the CPEP record accordingly, and provides oral report to the interdisciplinary team as indicated.  Adheres to established rules of confidentiality and laws concerning rights of patients.
• Functions as a consultant and subject matter expert on Substance Use issues for the interdisciplinary CPEP Team.  Informs, educates and guides co-workers as indicated in appropriate assessment and discharge planning for such patients.  When necessary, provides direct services needed for appropriate discharge planning such as completing the LOCADTOR. 
• With latitude for clinical judgement and knowledge / understanding of CPEP regulations regarding discharges for CPEP;  assists or directs, as indicated, discharge planning from CPEP for those patients dealing with substance use issues, to help ensure safe discharge planning.  Relatedly, maintains a working knowledge of, and develops and maintains positive relationships with, local and regional services and agencies for individuals dealing with substance abuse issues.
• May include safety planning with patient/family, making referral for outpatient follow-up or securing outpatient follow up as indicated and available.
• Subscribes to the departmental goal of creating a culturally competent environment by treating patient, families, trainees, and co-workers in a sensitive manner with appropriate attention to cultural differences. Participates in available cultural competency events and training appropriate to job duties.
• Participates in monthly CPEP Staff meetings and periodically contributes to content materials for staff meetings.  Maintains continuing education in knowledge and skills affecting the discipline of chemical dependency counseling, including attendance at in-service meetings. Reports to clinical supervisor regularly for supervision of all clinical activity.  As needed, acts as a liaison with physicians, staff and others in community health, social and government agencies.
• Supports inpatient service CASACs as indicated by supervisor. Other duties as assigned.
• Teaching: Assists with onsite training and support to new staff who are onboarding in CPEP or inpatient acute services.  May offer in-service training for CPEP and other acute services staff.  May offer learning experiences for psychiatric residents,  medical students, and other interns rotating through CPEP.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to human services and 1 year of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience required
• Prior experience working in substance use treatment preferred
• Prior experience working in a crisis or psychiatric care setting preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to provide SU assessments/evaluations and interventions in a crisis setting required.
• Knowledge of legal rights and societal attitudes toward the substance using person in and out of treatment required
• Excellent organization, communication skills and attention to details. Demonstrates ability to function independently and effectively, with minimal direction within a diverse workplace required.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Programs required
• Ability to think strategically and operationally at the same time required
• Ability to think critically and systematically required
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with individuals at all levels of the organization required
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines required.
• Dedication to delivering a team-based integrated model of care required
• Demonstrates cultural humility and anti-racism values and works toward ensuring all patients, staff and visitors feel welcome required.
• Experience with electronic medical records required

LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS

• CASAC Certification upon hire strongly preferred

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive and welcoming culture to advance the University’s Mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law (Protected Characteristics). This commitment extends to non-discrimination in the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates, for all persons consistent with our values and based on applicable law.