Addiction Counselor

The Addiction Counselor plays a critical role in supporting individuals struggling with substance use disorders by providing comprehensive mental health and behavioral health services. This position focuses on guiding clients through the recovery process using evidence-based psychotherapy and counseling techniques tailored to their unique needs. The counselor collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement personalized treatment and discharge plans that promote sustained recovery and well-being. Crisis intervention is a key component of the role, requiring the counselor to respond effectively to urgent client needs and stabilize situations. Ultimately, the Addiction Counselor aims to empower clients to achieve long-term sobriety and improved quality of life through compassionate support and therapeutic interventions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Holds a CAADC credential through the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB) or is licensed as an LMFT, LPC, or LCSW.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related discipline.
• Experience working in diverse clinical settings such as inpatient, outpatient, or community-based programs.
• Training in evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Motivational Interviewing (MI).
• Familiarity with co-occurring mental health disorders and integrated treatment approaches.
• Bilingual skills or experience working with culturally diverse populations.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough assessments to evaluate clients' mental health, addiction severity, and behavioral health needs.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans incorporating psychotherapy, group therapy, and addiction recovery strategies.
• Provide crisis intervention and support during acute episodes to ensure client safety and stabilization.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions to foster peer support and enhance coping skills among clients.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and family members to coordinate care and develop effective discharge plans.
• Maintain detailed and confidential client records in compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Monitor client progress and adjust treatment approaches as necessary to optimize recovery outcomes.

Skills:

The required skills are essential for delivering effective mental health and addiction counseling services on a daily basis. Mental health and behavioral health expertise enable the counselor to accurately assess client needs and tailor interventions accordingly. Psychotherapy and group therapy skills facilitate individual and collective healing processes, while crisis intervention capabilities ensure client safety during emergencies. Developing and managing discharge plans requires organizational skills and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to support clients’ transition to community resources. Preferred skills such as advanced therapeutic techniques and cultural competence enhance the counselor’s ability to address complex cases and serve a diverse client population with empathy and professionalism.