Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Qualifications

• Ability to understand a variety of models including cognitive behavioral therapy, theories of addiction and dynamics related to substance use and other criminogenic risk factors
• Knowledge of offender populations, criminal subcultures, and cultural differences, substance abuse assessment tools, therapeutic community concepts
• Ability to know and comply with program documentation requirements, applicable ethical and professional standards of conduct
• Ability to conduct initial clinical assessments and/or evaluations which serve as the basis for diagnosis and treatment
• Ability to provide services appropriate to the personal and cultural identity and language of the participant
• Ability to tailor helping strategies and treatment modalities to the participant's stage of dependence, change or recovery
• Ability to interact in a professional manner in both individual and group counseling settings
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in word processing programs, preferably MS Word, and spreadsheet programs, preferably MS Excel
• Ability to work independently
• High level of initiative
• Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality
• Professional appearance and demeanor
• Must be able to obtain and maintain OIG and NSOPW Clearance and
• Must possess at a minimum an associate degree in Human Services or Substance Abuse is required Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT): ADT status is not a certificate or a license

Responsibilities

• This position is responsible for the administration of the standard risk assessment and diagnostic testing instruments with the participants
• Interviews participants, reviews files and testing scores and prepares assessment reports
• The Counselor also determines the level of care for the participant
• Administer, score, and interpret all required screening and assessment tools including but not limited to the TCU Drug Screen, Treatment Assignment Protocol and the URICA
• May also use other assessment and substance abuse evaluation tools to support level of care ASAM placement
• Conducts screenings and assessments during the intake process and back-end screenings for standing populations
• Conducts post testing for participants as they go through the program
• Interviews participants to collect additional data not covered by above assessment tools
• Reviews DOC (Department of Corrections) files
• Scores and interprets results of assessment and testing tools
• Prepares written reports based on results of assessment and testing tools
• Will screen and assess patients for mental, chemical, and other factors to determine next steps
• Report on interactions and escalate serious cases
• Identify appropriate resources and connect clients to assistance
• Work with clients over the phone, virtually or in person to determine the crisis and immediate needs
• Participate in staffing regarding participants with other team members
• Work is primarily performed in a correctional institution setting

POSITION INCLUDES $500 SIGN ON BONUS