What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intake Counselor position at Hour House?
We are seeking to hire an Intake Counselor to join our team.
Job Title: Intake Counselor
The Intake Counselor serves as the first point of contact for individuals seeking substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. This role is responsible for handling incoming calls, conducting preliminary screenings and assessments, providing treatment recommendations, and ensuring a compassionate, professional experience for all callers. The Intake Counselor also collaborates with internal teams, external providers, and legal entities to coordinate appropriate care and facilitate timely admissions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Respond to inbound calls, emails, and online inquiries from potential clients, families, referral sources, and community partners
- Conduct initial screenings and biopsychosocial assessments to determine client needs, substance use history, and level of care appropriateness
- Provide informed recommendations for treatment services (e.g., detox, residential, outpatient, medication-assisted treatment) based on clinical criteria and organizational offerings
- Deliver exceptional customer service by demonstrating empathy, professionalism, and active listening in all interactions
- Verify insurance benefits and explain coverage, costs, and financial options clearly to clients or responsible parties
- Coordinate admissions by gathering required documentation and scheduling intake appointments or assessments
- Communicate with legal entities (e.g., courts, probation officers, attorneys) regarding client status, compliance, and treatment recommendations, in accordance with confidentiality regulations
- Collaborate with clinical, medical, and administrative staff to ensure smooth transitions into care
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in electronic health records (EHR)
- Follow up with prospective clients to support engagement and admission completion
- Stay informed on available resources, referral networks, and levels of care to ensure appropriate placement
- Adhere to all ethical standards, privacy laws (e.g., HIPAA), and organizational policies
Qualifications:
- Associate's Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field
- Experience in substance use disorder treatment, behavioral health intake, or crisis response preferred
- Knowledge of ASAM criteria and levels of care strongly preferred
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and de-escalation skills
- Ability to handle high call volumes while maintaining quality and empathy
- Experience working with insurance verification and healthcare systems is a plus
- Familiarity with legal and criminal justice systems related to treatment referrals preferred
- Proficiency with EHR systems and standard office software
Core Competencies:
- Empathy and client-centered approach
- Clinical judgment and decision-making
- Organization and attention to detail
- Multitasking and time management
- Professional communication (verbal and written)
- Collaboration and teamwork
Salary: $20.00 Hourly
Why Join Hour House?
Be part of a committed team working to make a positive impact in our communities. We offer a supportive work culture and the opportunity to contribute to a long-standing organization that values integrity, compassion, and service.
Hour House is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law.
Salary : $20