Counseling Assistant

National Capital Treatment and Recovery•Arlington, VA

About The Position

SUMMARY: This position is responsible for assisting the counseling center staff in performing appropriate clinical functions in order to facilitate client movement between counseling center programs and/ or completing clients from the programs. This position presents education lectures, facilitates counseling groups (under the direct oversight of the primary counselor or clinical supervisor), conducts substance abuse testing, assist with case management, and assists in documentation. The counseling assistant will assist with completing new client orientations as well as assist with discharge planning. This is a full-time, hourly position with full benefits. The schedule is Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 1pm-9:30pm, and Tuesday and Friday 9am-5pm.

Requirements

Associates degree in human services field or equivalent years working in addiction treatment field preferred
Certification as a substance abuse counselor (CSAC-A, CAC, CSAC) or able to obtain within one year
Certification in CPR, First Aid,
Familiarity with 12-step recovery programs
Possess valid driver’s license and safe driving record
Ability to prepare and maintain required documentation
Ability to comply with state and federal regulations regarding confidentiality
Knowledge of recreation therapy, family therapy and behavior management techniques
Ability to work and communicate with others
Ability to maintain appropriate boundaries with clients
Possess a thorough knowledge of various treatment methods and experience working with diverse populations.
General computer knowledge and skills, including, but not limited to use of email and basic timekeeping
Good written and verbal skills

Responsibilities

Responsible for assisting in orientation sessions for clients and documenting appropriate movement between phases
Monitors client supervision, including taking vitals, urine drug screen and breathalyzers.
Assist primary counselors with documentation and chart compliance
Assist staff and clients in maintaining adherence to posted schedule
Co-Facilitates groups as scheduled or as needed
Coordinate information communication to ensure smooth transitions and dissemination of appropriate information
Attend appropriate meetings, assembling information for staff and reporting any issues observed with the milieu
Oversee communication of client’s medical concerns with the nurse and medical consultants
Assist counselors in contacting clients, referral sources, and parent (if applicable) about any client change in status
Present education lectures as assigned and facilitate counseling groups as needed.
Provide crisis intervention as needed
Responsible for assuring program systems are employed according to Program’s policies and procedures
Conducts Urine drug screens and random breathalyzes
Document the Electronic Medical Record, all significant client interactions, changes in behavior, medical or psychiatric interventions
Complete Incident Reports as needed
Contact referral sources and document in client medical records in cases of ATAs, AWOLs, and discharges
Develop, implement and maintain leisure, social and spiritual program goals, objectives and actions to address areas of the whole person affected by addiction
Assist Program Manager to develop dynamic leisure, social and spiritual component to treatment
Responsible for maintaining/monitoring activities and education schedule for clients and family
Ensure that client informational boards are appropriate and current
Maintain ethical standards and continued professional growth, including a. Abide by Program and NCTR policy and procedures. Oversees staff understanding and compliance. b. Ensure all CARF standards are instituted and maintained c. Promote, in public and private contacts, the quality standards and ethical practices of NCTR staff. d. Continue professional growth by attending workshops, trainings and staff In-service trainings to increase skill and knowledge and to set appropriate example for staff Maintain current licensure/certification including CES, CPR, First Aid, and Medication Management. e. Maintain professional boundaries with staff and clients f. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor