What are the responsibilities and job description for the SUD Counselor position at Beyond Addiction?
Job Title: Primary Counselor
Department: Clinical
Reports To: Clinical Director / Chief Clinical Officer
Location: Beyond Addiction
Position Summary:
The Primary Counselor is responsible for providing comprehensive counseling and case management services to individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The counselor ensures that each client receives high-quality, person-centered care through evidence-based practices, ongoing assessment, and collaboration with the multidisciplinary treatment team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct intake assessments, biopsychosocial evaluations, and develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients.
- Facilitate individual, group, and family therapy sessions in accordance with clinical and regulatory standards.
- Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including progress notes, treatment plan reviews, and discharge summaries, in compliance with agency and state standards.
- Provide case management and advocacy services, including coordination with external agencies, probation/parole officers, family members, and healthcare providers as appropriate.
- Participate in treatment team meetings, clinical supervision, and multidisciplinary case reviews.
- Utilize motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches to support clients in achieving recovery goals.
- Monitor client progress and adjust treatment plans based on individual needs and ongoing assessments.
- Provide crisis intervention and support as needed, ensuring client and staff safety.
- Maintain compliance with HIPAA, confidentiality regulations, and ethical guidelines as outlined by licensing bodies.
- Assist with discharge planning and ensure a smooth transition to appropriate aftercare or continuing support services.
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives and uphold agency standards for clinical excellence.
Qualifications:
- Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
- Licensure/Certification:
- CADC, CAADC, LPC, LSW, LCSW, or related Pennsylvania state certification/license (or eligible for licensure).
- Experience:
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in substance use disorder and/or mental health counseling preferred.
- Skills:
- Strong clinical assessment, communication, and documentation skills.
- Ability to maintain professionalism, empathy, and boundaries.
- Proficient in electronic health record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Work Environment:
- This position operates in a clinical setting and requires frequent client interaction.
- Must be able to maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful or emotionally charged situations.
- Some evening or weekend hours may be required based on program needs.
Core Competencies:
- Ethical and Professional Conduct
- Client-Centered Approach
- Team Collaboration
- Documentation and Time Management
- Cultural Competence and Sensitivity