Certified Addiction Counselor (40 Hour)

State of Connecticut • Middletown, CT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is hiring a Certified Addiction Counselor for the Addiction Services Division at Connecticut Valley Hospital in Middletown. The position provides specialized counseling services to clients in a behavioral health treatment program, supporting recovery and coordinating care for individuals with alcohol and drug dependence. Connecticut Valley Hospital provides trauma-informed, gender-responsive treatment intended to help individuals manage recovery, improve quality of life, and return to the community.

The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, on the first shift, Tuesday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. A comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening, is required after a conditional offer. The role may involve moderate lifting or restraining of patients and exposure to communicable or infectious diseases and risk of injury from assaultive or abusive patients. A medical and/or psychiatric examination may be required before appointment.

Requirements

• Certification from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor and three years of experience involving risk-reduction education and counseling to assist individuals with alcohol and drug dependence.
• Licensure from the Connecticut Department of Public Health as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor may substitute for the general experience requirement. For state employees, three years of experience as a Certified Addiction Counselor Trainee may also substitute for the general experience requirement.
• Knowledge of the physical, psychological, social, family, and economic effects of substance abuse; counseling principles and techniques; community resources; confidentiality provisions; and infectious diseases.
• Considerable interpersonal skills and oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to gather, analyze, and evaluate information pertinent to treatment, diagnosis, and rehabilitation.
• Must retain the required certification and/or licensure.
• Individuals recovering from addiction to alcohol or drugs must have two years of substance-free time to be considered for a position in a substance abuse program.
• May be required to speak a foreign language or be fluent in American Sign Language.
• May be required to possess and retain a valid driver's license and to travel.
• A comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening, is required following a conditional offer of employment; a medical and/or psychiatric examination may also be required prior to appointment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with a multidisciplinary team in a hospital or behavioral health residential setting providing care and treatment to clients with substance use and mental health disorders.
• Experience with evidence-based practice, standardized measurable outcomes, and research-supported approaches.
• Experience utilizing community resources and supports to connect individuals with appropriate services.
• Experience in case management.
• Connecticut Department of Public Health licensure as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
• Active driver's license for transporting clients.

Responsibilities

• Provide counseling services to clients with alcohol and drug dependence.
• Screen clients for program eligibility and assess their strengths, needs, and treatment goals.
• Orient clients to the treatment program.
• Participate in treatment planning and provide individual and/or group counseling.
• Perform case management activities.
• Provide crisis intervention in response to emotional or physical distress.
• Refer clients to outside or other programs for medical or psychological intervention.
• Maintain confidential reports and records of client data.
• Represent the program at community events and seminars.
• Educate clients about substance use issues and available resources.
• Consult with service providers to support comprehensive, integrated care.
• May escort clients, provide coverage duties, and collect urine for drug screening.
• Perform related duties as required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive state employee benefits; available options are described in the State Employee Benefits Overview.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• Commitment to promoting a healthy work/life balance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed