Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA)

Dove Recovery•Cleveland, OH

38d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) supports the delivery of substance use disorder treatment services under the supervision of a licensed clinical professional. The CDCA plays a critical role in client engagement, group facilitation, documentation, care coordination, and maintaining compliance with OhioMHAS and payer requirements. This position requires professionalism, strong boundaries, timely documentation, and a client-centered approach aligned with recovery-oriented care.

Requirements

Active CDCA certification through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board (OCDPB)
Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, or a related field.
Experience utilizing ASAM criteria for client assessment, placement, and level of care determination.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain individualized treatment plans and complete accurate, timely clinical documentation.
Knowledge of and experience applying de-escalation techniques to safely manage challenging client situations while maintaining a therapeutic environment.
High school diploma or GED
Ability to work under clinical supervision and within defined scope of practice
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Basic computer skills and EMR experience preferred
Ability to maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards

Nice To Haves

Experience in outpatient, IOP, PHP, or residential SUD treatment
Familiarity with OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and managed care requirements
Group facilitation experience
Trauma-informed care experience
Prior experience with co-occurring disorders

Responsibilities

Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions appropriate to scope of CDCA practice
Assist with individual sessions, treatment planning, and progress reviews under supervision
Support client engagement, attendance, and participation in programming
Observe and document client behaviors, progress, and barriers to treatment
Assist with crisis de-escalation and behavioral interventions as needed
Coordinate with case managers, housing staff, and medical providers as appropriate
Complete timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation in the EMR
Ensure documentation supports medical necessity and level-of-care requirements
Follow OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and payer documentation standards
Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance at all times
Participate in chart audits and corrective action as directed
Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, staffing, and supervision
Communicate professionally with supervisors and clinical leadership
Support program structure, schedules, and group flow
Assist with admissions, discharges, and transitions of care when assigned
Uphold center policies, procedures, and professional standards