Independent Contractor Rutgers University Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Licensed Clinical Assessor is an independent contractor position. The Licensed Clinical Assessor is responsible for conducting Biopsychosocial assessments and evaluations for individuals experiencing mental and behavioral disorders. This role involves utilizing clinical expertise to identify client needs, develop individualized treatment plans, and provide recommendations for appropriate care. The Licensed Clinical Assessor collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to ensure holistic, client-centered treatment approaches.

Key Responsibilities:

• Clinical Assessment:
  Conduct in-depth clinical assessments to evaluate the nature and severity of substance use and co-occurring disorders. Utilize structured interviews, evidence-based tools, and collateral information to inform diagnosis and care planning.
• Diagnostic Evaluation:
  Apply current diagnostic criteria (e.g., DSM-5) to identify substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, ensuring clinical accuracy and compliance with professional standards.
• Treatment Planning:
  Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment outcomes, client history, and presenting needs. Collaborate with internal and external providers to create integrated care strategies.
  During quarterly treatment plan reviews, 1:1 counseling, assess client progress and current clinical diagnosis to determine the appropriate point for initiating discharge planning. Identify and document readiness for discharge, anticipated supports, and continued care needs to ensure a smooth transition from services.
• Documentation and Compliance:
  Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential clinical documentation, including assessments, diagnostic impressions, treatment recommendations, and progress notes, in accordance with organizational, legal, and ethical guidelines. Report any necessary compliance concerns for all service lines to the Clinical department.
• Client Counseling and Engagement:
  Provide brief interventions, psychoeducation, and motivational support to clients and families during the assessment process. Support clients in understanding disorder and treatment goals.
• Referral and Coordination:
  Provide referrals to appropriate services including medical care, mental health treatment, detoxification, peer support, and community-based resources. Communicate effectively with care teams to support continuity of care.
• Professional Development:
  Stay current on emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the fields of addiction counseling and behavioral health through ongoing education and training.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Licensure:
  Active and unrestricted license (or equivalent) as required by state regulations, in Illinois.
• Education:
  A Masters degree or higher that meets the behavioral science degree requirements or Nursing from an accredited school or university. Masters degree in nursing, counseling, psychology, social work, or a related behavioral health field.
• Experience:
  Demonstrated experience in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning preferred.
• Preference given to those clinicians with experience working with Peer Supporters and/or Supervisory credential to oversee Peer Supporters.
• Knowledge and Skills:
  
  • Strong understanding of mental and behavioral health disorders, and treatment modalities.
  • Proficiency in clinical documentation and diagnostic assessment tools.
  • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Well organized, adaptable, and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Sound clinical judgment, insight, and effective conflict resolution skills
  • Ability to pass a DCFS background check and applicable pre-employment screening.
  • Bilingual in Spanish a plus

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Contractor position, remote from home. Must be located in Illinois.
• May require flexible scheduling to accommodate client needs, including occasional evenings or weekends.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Leadership role with clinical supervision responsibilities
• CEU & professional development support
• Flexible scheduling options
• Supportive, mission-driven team culture