Assessment Counselor (50852)

WESTCARE INC•Jessup, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

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. Essential Job Functions are below:

Requirements

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.
Internet skills.
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.
Ability to obtain and maintain clearance from Maryland Department of Corrections.
Valid drivers license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCares vehicle insurance is required.
Must be able to obtain and maintain OIG and NSOPW Clearance
Must possess at a minimum an associate degree in Human Services or Substance Abuse is required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual (fluent in English and Spanish) preferred.
Experience consisting of one (1) year of providing direct substance abuse counseling services to the criminal justice population preferred.

Responsibilities

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
Must Embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation; and
Perform all other duties as assigned.