Drug & Alcohol Assessor

Reports To: Director of Behavioral Health and Drug & Alcohol Services

Job Summary

The Drug and Alcohol Assessor is responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments of individuals experiencing substance use disorders. The assessor evaluates clients' treatment needs, recommends appropriate levels of care, and coordinates referrals to treatment and support services. This role requires adherence to all applicable laws, regulations, ethical standards, and confidentiality requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct drug and alcohol assessments using approved screening and assessment tools.
• Interview clients to gather information regarding substance use history, mental health, medical background, family dynamics, employment, and social functioning.
• Determine the severity of substance use disorders and identify co-occurring mental health conditions.
• Develop clinical recommendations and treatment plans based on assessment findings.
• Provide referrals to appropriate treatment programs, recovery services, and community resources.
• Prepare and maintain accurate, timely, and confidential documentation.
• Complete assessment reports for courts, employers, probation departments, child welfare agencies, or other referral sources as required.
• Monitor client progress and update recommendations when necessary.
• Educate clients and families regarding substance use disorders, treatment options, and recovery resources.
• Collaborate with counselors, healthcare providers, social workers, probation officers, and other community partners.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and organizational policies, including HIPAA and confidentiality standards.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development activities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of substance use disorders and recovery principles.
• Knowledge of ASAM criteria and levels of care.
• Assessment and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to establish rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage confidential and sensitive information.

Working Conditions

• Work may be performed in outpatient clinics, treatment centers, hospitals, correctional facilities, community agencies, or court settings.
• Regular interaction with individuals experiencing addiction, mental health challenges, or crisis situations.

Required Qualifications

• Master degree preferred; Bachelor's degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Addiction Studies, or a related field.
• State-specific certification or licensure as a Substance Abuse Counselor, Alcohol and Drug Counselor, or equivalent credential.
• Knowledge of addiction assessment tools, treatment modalities, and recovery support services.
• Strong interviewing, crisis intervention, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate documentation and professional boundaries.
• Proficiency with electronic health record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience conducting substance use assessments in clinical, community, correctional, or court-related settings.
• Training in motivational interviewing and evidence-based practices.
• Experience working with diverse populations and co-occurring disorders.
• Additional work may be assigned

Salary : $20 - $22