What are the responsibilities and job description for the Substance Abuse Counselor - In Training (SAC position at Family Health Center?
JOB SUMMARY
The Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training (SAC-IT) is a key member of the interdisciplinary care team, providing treatment, support, and follow-up services to patients with substance use disorders. This role operates under the supervision of a Clinical Supervisor and adheres to departmental and organizational policies related to documentation, billing, and ethical standards. The SAC-IT position is a training role designed to provide the supervised experience necessary for advancement to a fully credentialed Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) or Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC). The Clinical Supervisor provides oversight in all areas of counselor development, performance evaluation, and professional responsibilities.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
- Performs all job functions under the supervision and direction of the Clinical Supervisor, with responsibilities determined based on demonstrated competency.
- Conducts and documents clinical evaluations, including diagnostic impressions and patient-centered services that address the intellectual, psychosocial, physical, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.
- Develops and maintains comprehensive treatment plans for substance use and co-occurring disorders, including initial planning, ongoing care, discharge planning, and relapse prevention.
- Delivers addiction treatment services through both group and individual sessions, using various therapeutic modalities to meet the diverse needs of the patient population.
- Maintains accurate documentation and clinical records in compliance with clinic protocols, and state and federal regulations.
- Collaborates with patients, families, clinicians, referral sources, and other team members to develop and implement integrated, individualized, and outcomes-driven treatment plans within a Recovery-Oriented System of Care.
- Submits accurate and timely billing information to support the financial performance of the service line.
- Educates patients, families, colleagues, and community members on substance use issues and treatment options to promote improved community health.
- Participates in the ongoing education and training of colleagues and team members to support high-quality patient care and team effectiveness.
- Engages in continuing education and training to enhance professional knowledge and improve the quality of services provided.
- Maintains strict adherence to scheduled work hours with regular and reliable attendance.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Completion of the DSPS-required curriculum for the Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training (SAC-IT) certificate, including a minimum of 100 hours of specialized education in assessment, counseling, case management, patient education, and professional responsibility, as outlined in SPS 161.
- Minimum of clinical experience gained through counselor training and education, such as clinical labs, internships, or related volunteer work.
- Preferred Associate degree in counseling, psychology, sociology, human services, or a related field.
CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES
- Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training (SAC-IT) certificate, or eligibility to obtain SAC-IT certification at the time of hire, as awarded by the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) required. Note: The SAC-IT credential may only be renewed twice. Required supervised experience for SAC certification must be completed within the original certification period plus two renewals. Failure to obtain SAC certification within this timeframe results in ineligibility to remain in the position.
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification at time of hire, or within three-months of employment.
- Valid Wisconsin Driver’s License required with an acceptable motor vehicle record (MVR), per FHC guidelines.
Equal Employment Opportunity