Addiction Counselor

Overview

Addiction Counselor

The Addiction Counselor is an integral member of the clinical team, responsible for managing a caseload of patients with substance use disorders. The Addiction Counselor provides individual counseling, facilitates and co-facilitates therapeutic groups, and uses a trauma-informed approach to support each patient’s recovery. Key duties include conducting assessments, screenings, intake, orientation, psychoeducation, and referrals, as well as completing sample swabs and participating in crisis intervention when needed. The counselor also collaborates with internal and external teams to coordinate care, helps patients access appropriate levels of treatment, and maintains accurate, up-to-date documentation. Depending on credentials and experience, this work may be co-facilitated with other staff members. 

Responsibilities

• Develops a treatment plan in concert with the Program Director or Clinical Supervisor that reflects an understanding of specialized Track issues related to the physical, medical, cognitive, and psychosocial needs and specific diagnosis.
• Uses a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to work collaboratively with patients and internal and external treatment team members to help support patients in their treatment and recovery.
• Provides clinical consultation to referral resources, Mentors, family members, and others to help support patients in their recovery.
• Works closely with patients to engage them in the decision-making process and help them understand the benefits of assessment and accessing the appropriate level of care as indicated.
• Collects and reviews referral information upon assignment of patients from the referral source and consults with others as needed to support coordination of services and scheduling of patient interviews.
• Based on assessments, make referrals to the most appropriate programs and agencies in an effort to help patients access the right level of care to best meet their treatment needs.
• Assists patients with scheduling an admission or first appointment date at the program or facility where they are referred.
• Monitors patient access to and involvement with treatment and other providers to help address barriers to treatment and the recovery process. 

Qualifications

Education and Experience  

Applicants without CASAC Credential 

• Minimum of a high school diploma (Bachelor’s or Master’s in Human Services or related field preferred)

• Strong interest in addiction treatment and willingness to receive training and become credentialed as a CASAC

• Knowledge or willingness to learn about:

  • Trauma-Informed Care

  • Co-occurring disorders

  • Client confidentiality and privacy laws 

Applicants with CASAC Credential 

• Minimum of a high school diploma (Bachelor’s or Master’s in Human Services or related field preferred) 

• At least one (1) year of experience working with individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUD) 

• Training and experience in:

  • Trauma-Informed Care

  • Co-occurring disorders

  • Relevant privacy and confidentiality laws 

Additional Requirements 

• Genuine interest in helping others recover from addiction

• Caring, patient, and understanding with a kind and respectful attitude

• Calmness in tough situations and ability to offer steady support

• Well-organized and dependable with a positive outlook 

Additional Information 

This is a full-time non-exempt role with an hourly rate of $27.47-$32.41 (annualized at 35 hours a week to $50,000-$59,000) with a full benefits package. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 25 days of paid time off, access to a retirement account with an employer to match, and tuition reimbursement. The compensation offered for this role is dependent on experience and credentials. 

This role is located in Richmond Hill, Queens and has a schedule of Sun-Thurs. or Tues.-Sat. 8-4pm or 1-9pm.

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