What are the responsibilities and job description for the Substance Abuse Counselor position at Behavioral Health Group - BHG?
Substance Abuse Counselor - Master's Level
Behavioral Health Group (BHG) is the largest network of Joint Commission-accredited treatment centers and the leading provider of opioid addiction treatment services. We are dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders through a full continuum of care, including Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT). With over 110 locations across 22 states, our team of more than 1,900 employees serves over 42,000 patients nationwide.
Job Summary
The Counselor provides support to patients by helping them identify strengths and align them with social, educational, and vocational goals. This role also assists patients in preparing for and maintaining a drug-free lifestyle, offering both emotional and practical support. Counselors report to the Counselor Supervisor or Program Director and are responsible for patient services, adherence to schedules, program policies, and applicable regulatory standards. Duties are carried out within the scope of the Counselor’s license or certification.
Essential Responsibilities
The Counselor must hold one of the following:
In Addition, Candidates Should Demonstrate
BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.
Behavioral Health Group (BHG) is the largest network of Joint Commission-accredited treatment centers and the leading provider of opioid addiction treatment services. We are dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders through a full continuum of care, including Opioid Treatment Programs (OTP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and Office-Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT). With over 110 locations across 22 states, our team of more than 1,900 employees serves over 42,000 patients nationwide.
Job Summary
The Counselor provides support to patients by helping them identify strengths and align them with social, educational, and vocational goals. This role also assists patients in preparing for and maintaining a drug-free lifestyle, offering both emotional and practical support. Counselors report to the Counselor Supervisor or Program Director and are responsible for patient services, adherence to schedules, program policies, and applicable regulatory standards. Duties are carried out within the scope of the Counselor’s license or certification.
Essential Responsibilities
- Provide individual and group counseling sessions as required by state regulations and treatment plans.
- Conduct patient orientations and collect social, educational, economic, and vocational information for assessments.
- Develop and update individualized treatment plans within required timelines.
- Maintain accurate, complete, and timely patient records, including documentation of all patient contacts and team member services.
- Make appropriate referrals and follow up through case management.
- Participate in treatment team meetings and provide input on patient progress.
- Deliver crisis intervention and supportive counseling as needed.
- Coordinate care with community providers and prepare inter-agency reports as required.
- Support new program implementation as directed by the Program Director.
- Provide intake/readmission services and follow-up counseling for new patients.
- Perform OBOT (Office-Based Opioid Treatment) services as required.
- Attend and contribute to staff trainings, in-services, and conferences.
- Participate in community outreach and public relations activities when assigned.
- Maintain current knowledge of addiction, recovery, and opioid treatment trends.
- Comply with all federal, state, local, and accrediting body regulations.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and supportive environment for patients and team members.
- Demonstrate professionalism, sound judgment, and confidentiality in all interactions.
- Work independently, handle multiple tasks under pressure, and make effective decisions.
- Mentor and train colleagues in counseling best practices.
- Commit to ongoing professional development.
- Must comply with federal and state regulations regarding certification, licensure, and degree.
The Counselor must hold one of the following:
- LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor)
- LADAC I (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor I)
- LADAC II (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor II)
- LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
- LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker)
In Addition, Candidates Should Demonstrate
- High integrity, reliability, and efficiency
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency with basic computer programs and office equipment
- Knowledge of human behavior, substance use disorders, and treatment planning
- Ability to support the rehabilitation and recovery of patients
- Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous paid time off, holidays, and personal needs. Benefit from flexible schedules with early in/early out hours, no nights, and no Sundays.
- Investment in Your Growth: Prioritize your development with role-based training and advancement opportunities.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Choose from three benefits programs, including health, life, vision, and dental insurance. Enjoy tuition reimbursement and 401K plan with discretionary match.
- Recognition and Rewards: Experience competitive pay, quarterly bonuses, and incentives for certifications or licenses.
- Employee Perks: Access exclusive discounts on various services and entertainment options, and benefit from our Employee Assistance Program and self-care series.
BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.