SUD Counselor

Life Care Inc. is a trusted Mental Health Provider and Certified Core Service Agency serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region. Accredited by the Joint Accreditation Commission, Life Care Inc. offers diverse, person-centered programs, including therapeutic services, housing support, and employment assistance. With a dedicated team of licensed professionals, the organization is committed to promoting mental well-being and providing resources to help individuals thrive. Each program is designed to address unique client needs and preferences, aiming to enhance the quality of life for those served.

Job Summary:

Focusing on providing counseling, assessment, and support to individuals with substance use disorders. They develop treatment plans, conduct individual and group therapy, and facilitate relapse prevention. Key responsibilities include outreach, crisis intervention, referral services, and collaboration with other professionals.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Duties/Responsibilities:

Client Assessment & Evaluation

· Conducts intake interviews and substance use assessments.

· Evaluates physical and mental health impacts of substance use.

· Identifies co-occurring disorders and risk factors.

Treatment Planning

· Develops individualized treatment plans based on client needs.

· Sets short- and long-term recovery goals in collaboration with clients.

· Adjust plans as clients progress or face setbacks.

Counseling & Support

· Provides individual and group counseling sessions.

· Uses evidence-based approaches (e.g., CBT, Motivational Interviewing).

· Offers relapse prevention strategies and coping skills training.

Case Management

· Coordinates with medical, mental health, and social service providers.

· Refers clients to detox, inpatient, outpatient, or community programs.

· Monitors client progress and documents treatment outcomes.

Education & Advocacy

· Educates clients and families about substance use and recovery.

· Advocates for client needs within the healthcare and legal systems.

· Facilitate workshops or support groups on addiction and recovery.

Crisis Intervention

· Responds to clients in crisis, including overdose or relapse situations.

· Develops safety plans and connects clients to emergency services.

Compliance & Documentation

· Maintains accurate and confidential records.

· Making sure notes are documented 24-48 hours

· Ensure compliance with legal, ethical, and organizational standards.

· A minimum of 26 Billable Clinical Documentation is needed on a weekly basis.

Outreach

· Building Networking Partnership with CSOSA, Behavioral Health Justice Department, Clinics in the District of Columbia and other SUD related agencies.

·UA (Urinalysis/Drug Testing)

· Administers and collects urine samples in accordance with clinical and legal standards.

· Ensures chain of custody procedures are followed to maintain integrity of test results.

· Conducts random and scheduled drug screenings as part of treatment monitoring.

· Explains testing procedures to clients to reduce anxiety and encourage compliance.

· Accurately records and reports results in client files within required timeframes.

· Communicates positive test results to treatment team and incorporates findings into treatment planning.

· Provides feedback and counseling to clients regarding test outcomes, emphasizing accountability and recovery goals.

· Coordinates with external laboratories when confirmatory testing is required.

· Maintains confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA and organizational policies during all testing procedures.

Education:

Qualified Personnel; The following professionals are eligible to serve as counselors within this role:

• LGSW – Licensed Graduate Social Worker

• LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor

• CACI – Certified Addiction Counselor I

• CACII – Certified Addiction Counselor II

• LICSW – Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker

While a bachelor's degree in counseling is beneficial, degrees in related fields like social work, psychology, or human services can also be accepted.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Empathy and compassion

Professionalism

Patience

Organization

Flexibility

Listening skills

Time management

Observation skills

Motivation

Self-management

Excellent communication skills

Positive and cheerful attitude

Ability to work in a team

Ability to work independently

Discretion

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.