Addictions Counselor

EDGEWATER HEALTH•Gary, IN

About The Position

The Addictions Counselor works daily in partnership with the Clinician and the Director of Crisis Services to monitor clients while they are participating in the Rapid Access Center (RAC) programs including the Crisis Receiving and Stabilization and/or the Sub-acute Detox Program. The position will support existing services and will help to develop new ways to address the issues surrounding this population including the Mobile Crisis Response Team , Crisis Hotline and Crisis Stabilization Center. The Addictions Counselor is responsible for providing direct support, treatment, and guidance to individuals struggling with substance use disorders (alcohol, drugs, etc.) and other addictive behaviors. Their role is to help clients understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and work toward recovery and healthier lifestyles. The Addictions Counselor does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.
A valid and current Indiana state license/certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and/or the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselor (NAADAC).
Strong clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with a healthcare team and communicate effectively with patients.
Ability to work independently.
Must have the ability or flexibility to work any shift, as mutually agreed.
Must have adequate knowledge of behavioral health and substance abuse clientele, de-escalation techniques and must understand, have compassion for and offer empathy to those served.
Must possess excellent written and verbal skills.
Must be able to maintain professional rapport with clients that are in crisis and connected support systems, including relatives and community partners.
Must have the ability to remain patient and resilient.
Customer-focused philosophy of doing business.
Excellent organizational skills to prioritize workload and coordinate activities with others.
Knowledge of computers including the Microsoft Office products and of working with the Internet to perform research related to their role.
Understanding various addiction treatment methods, including 12 step programs, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivation interviewing, is vital.
Ability to attend required in-house and/or out-of-town training.
A valid and current Indiana state license/certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and/or the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselor (NAADAC).
Valid driver’s license in accordance with EH motor vehicle policy.
CPR Certification required.
CPI Certification required.
Must be able to lift fifty pounds.
Prolonged periods of sitting at desk, standing at events, and driving within service area
Frequent lifting and setting up for events.
Prolonged periods of working on the computer – typing, designing etc.
Completion of tuberculin screening no later than three days prior to first day of employment and annually thereafter.
Completion of MMR, Varicella, influenza, and coronavirus vaccine
Completion and successful passing of a pre-employment drug screening and completion of post-employment drug or alcohol tests upon reasonable suspicion of use.
Completion of orientation and ALL required paperwork prior to reporting for work
Demonstrated computer literacy through successful completion of pre-employment testing may be required.
Completion of HCI Quality training, Trauma Informed Care, and e-learning.
Successful completion of New Employee Department Checklist within 90 days of employment
Attendance at all mandatory staff development and training.
Successful completion of a six-month on-the-job orientation period.
Adherence to all policies, procedures, rules, and regulations set forth by Edgewater Health.
Participation in payroll electronic deposit
Adherence to Compliance Program Plan
Satisfactory reference and background investigation checks.

Nice To Haves

Experience in the specific clinical field (e.g., primary care, mental health, emergency medicine) preferred.
Experience with electronic medical records (EMR) systems preferred.

Responsibilities

Patient Assessment and Evaluation:
Assess client’s physical, mental, and emotional health, as well as the severity of the addiction, to create a tailored treatment plan.
Assess history of substance abuse, treatment and recovery to further define needs and to aid in the development of a plan of care and discharge plans for implementation once stable.
Treatment Planning:
Based on the assessment, counselors develop individualized recovery plans. These plans may include therapy, behavioral interventions, and referrals to additional resources like medical care or social services.
Counseling and Therapy:
Provide one-on-one or group therapy sessions to help clients understand their addiction, develop coping mechanisms, and address any co-occurring mental health disorders (like anxiety, depression, or trauma).
Educate:
Educate clients and their families about addiction, its effects, and the recovery process. They may also provide guidance on relapse prevention.
Support:
Offer emotional and psychological support throughout the recovery journey, helping clients stay motivated and focused on their goals.
Crisis Intervention:
In situations of relapse or severe withdrawal, addiction counselors are trained to manage crises and provide immediate support.
Collaboration and Communication
Work closely with multidisciplinary team including physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated patient care.
Compliance and Continuous Learning
Adhere to all healthcare regulations, laws, and ethical standards.
Participate in ongoing professional development and stay current on best practices in healthcare.
Follow organizational protocols and contribute to continuous improvement in patient care processes.
Ensure all documentation is entered into the EHR and it is both accurate and timely, meeting the guidelines set forth for this service.
This position may be responsible for performing other duties as assigned and/or at other locations.