Clinical Counselor

ENCOMPASS COMMUNITY SERVICES•Santa Cruz, CA
•$27 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

The Clinical Counselor at Encompass Community Services’ Santa Cruz Residential Recovery program provides counseling and related services to Drug Medi-Cal-eligible residential participants. The role supports stabilization of clients’ substance use disorders and mental health through evidence-based practices, including motivational interviewing, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. The counselor works collaboratively with residential counseling staff to provide whole-person care and coordinate treatment services. Clinical Counselors either manage a caseload of up to ten clients throughout treatment or facilitate and train evidence-based groups to fidelity. The position also involves assessments, crisis intervention, coordination with external care providers, and compliance with confidentiality, documentation, and agency policies. The role requires five years of experience in substance use disorder treatment and certification with a recognized AOD certifying agency. The employee must be able to meet OSHA mask-fitting requirements; facial hair must be trimmed or shaved to ensure a proper seal. Encompass offers full-time employees medical and dental insurance, acupuncture and chiropractic benefits, a 403(b) retirement plan, 11 vacation days, 15 additional paid holidays, and 12 sick days. Benefits are prorated for part-time positions.

Requirements

  • Five years of experience in substance use disorder treatment.
  • Knowledge of CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and other evidence-based practices.
  • Certification with a recognized AOD certifying agency.
  • Ability to meet OSHA mask-fitting requirements; facial hair must be trimmed or shaved to ensure a proper seal.
  • Effective communication skills and ability to use or learn current technology, including electronic health records for case notes, assessments, treatment plans, and case management.
  • Demonstrated skills and understanding of effective addiction treatment and recovery.
  • Organizational ability to maintain accurate records.

Responsibilities

  • Provide individual therapy, case management, and/or group therapy in accordance with funder requirements, agency policies, and evidence-based practices.
  • Manage a caseload of up to ten clients throughout treatment or facilitate and train evidence-based groups to fidelity.
  • Conduct client assessments, including ASAM, biopsychosocial, and risk assessments as needed.
  • Provide crisis intervention and counseling.
  • Maintain communication with external providers, coordinators, and other entities involved in client care or funding.
  • Protect client confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR regulations.
  • Use motivational interviewing to support a client-centered approach with people from diverse and underserved backgrounds.
  • Participate in clinical supervision provided by Encompass for interns.
  • Follow Encompass personnel, facility, and expense policies.
  • Report consistently at scheduled times and avoid canceling client appointments.
  • Complete Medi-Cal documentation and assignments accurately, thoroughly, and on time.
  • Follow instructions, respond to management direction, remain accountable, and keep commitments.
  • Maintain clear professional and personal boundaries.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance for full-time employees.
  • Dental insurance for full-time employees.
  • Acupuncture and chiropractic benefits.
  • 403(b) retirement plan.
  • 11 vacation days.
  • 15 additional paid holidays.
  • 12 sick days.
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