Behavioral Health Counselor

Open Health Care Clinic•Eunice, LA

About The Position

The Behavioral Health Counselor functions under the supervision and guidance of the Behavioral Health Manager. The Behavioral Health Counselor will conduct patient assessments, implement therapeutic interventions, complete individualized treatment plans, provide patient education, and complete referrals as necessary. The counselor works collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to support integrated care in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) environment.

Requirements

Active LCSW (Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners) or LPC (Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners) required.
Master’s degree in Social Work or Counseling required.
Minimum one (1) year post‑graduate, paid clinical experience in mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment preferred.
Knowledge of evidence‑based practices, including trauma‑informed care and treatment for co‑occurring disorders.
Experience working with individuals experiencing co‑occurring mental health and substance use disorders preferred.
American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers required.
Knowledge of evidence‑based practices, including trauma‑informed care, cognitive‑behavioral therapies, and interventions for co‑occurring disorders.
Familiarity with FQHC practice standards, integrated care models, and multidisciplinary care coordination preferred.
Working knowledge of DSM and ICD diagnostic frameworks and ability to assign accurate diagnostic codes.
Ability to perform comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, formulate diagnoses, and create individualized treatment plans.
Strong crisis intervention skills, including suicide risk assessment, safety planning, and de‑escalation.
Proficiency in electronic health records (EHRs) and ability to complete documentation within required timeframes.
Knowledge of confidentiality standards, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
Understanding of community resources, social determinants of health, and referral processes.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to work effectively in a diverse, multicultural environment.
Demonstrated professionalism, ethical judgment, and ability to maintain appropriate boundaries.
Strong organizational and time‑management skills, including ability to manage caseload and meet deadlines.
Ability to comply with infection control and safety protocols, including PPE use and incident reporting.
BLS for Healthcare Providers required.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, if travel between sites is required.

Nice To Haves

Minimum one (1) year post‑graduate, paid clinical experience in mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment preferred.
Experience working with individuals experiencing co‑occurring mental health and substance use disorders preferred.
Familiarity with FQHC practice standards, integrated care models, and multidisciplinary care coordination preferred.