Substance Abuse Counselor

DESCRIPTION 

The Substance Abuse Counselor will provide counsel and support to patients suffering from drug or alcohol dependency, educate families in the best ways to help in the recovery process, and work with both inpatient clients and those participating in outpatient programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Meets with clients to obtain personal information and medical histories and consults with other professionals to get a clear picture of the patient's status and extent of problems.
• Designs a program of treatment and rehabilitation tailored to patient's individual situation based on knowledge of alcohol and drug dependency and counseling and treatment methods.
• Uses a combination of individual and group counseling sessions to help clients and observes their attitudes and readiness to accept help and guidance.
• Meets with family members to educate them on the roles they can play in the recovery process.
• Educates patients about community-based organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and social and employment services that may help restore them to productive roles in the community.
• Maintains case histories and progress reports. Modifies treatment programs based on observation.
• Assists patients with coping with family problems and recommends appropriate social services as support for the entire family unit.
• All other duties as assigned by the Director of Clinical Services.  

LEVEL AND DEGREE OF SUPERVISION

Supervised by the Clinical Services Program Manager.  Supervision includes two hours per week clinical supervision, participation in monthly general staff meetings, and support staff team meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Associate’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, or other Behavioral Health related field.
• Current licensure in New Mexico as a Licensed Substance Abuse Associate (LSAA).
• At least two years of experience working with drug or alcohol abusers under close supervision.
• Employee is responsible for obtaining continuing education to maintain appropriate licensure. 
• Must pass NMCYFD fingerprint clearance check to maintain employment. 
• Maintain a valid and unrestricted NM Driver’s License
• Must be able to use personal vehicle over course of employment.
• Maintain valid and sufficient personal automobile insurance. 
• Must pass and maintain a Driving Record clearance in accordance with GCLC policies and procedures.

Preferred 

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, or other Behavioral Health related field.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) both verbal and written is preferred, but not required. 

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of family systems model and various treatment modalities is mandatory.  Empathetic manner to deal with clients who may have multiple problems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.