Counselor I/ II

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC•Los Angeles, CA

2d•$24 - $29

About The Position

The Counselor I/II provides substance use screening, individualized care planning, and treatment services to clients. The role includes delivering evidence-based individual and group services, supporting recovery and discharge planning, coordinating with medical providers and community resources, monitoring client progress, and maintaining accurate treatment documentation. Counselors may also perform toxicology testing and take and record vital signs as needed. For counselors assigned to residential programs, responsibilities include conducting rounds every 30 minutes for 72 hours for clients receiving withdrawal management, documenting withdrawal symptoms, and observing and documenting clients’ self-administration of medications. The role requires compliance with applicable regulatory, accreditation, privacy, and agency standards; responding safely and within scope to crises and emergencies; supporting clients’ practical needs; and contributing to facility safety, treatment planning, and quality improvement. Counselor I requires enrollment in or registration with a state-recognized substance use counselor certification program and at least six months of substance abuse experience. Counselor II requires certification through a state-recognized substance use counselor certification body and at least two years of substance abuse experience. Both levels require at least a high school diploma or equivalent and good-standing registration or certification, as applicable.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Counselor I: Registration and/or enrollment in a state-recognized substance use counselor certification program.
Counselor I: Six months of substance abuse experience.
Counselor I: Completion of the required 80 hours of continuing education in accordance with AB 2473 when applicable.
Counselor I: Maintain registration in good standing.
Counselor II: Certification by a state-recognized substance use counselor certification body.
Counselor II: At least two years of substance abuse experience.
Counselor II: Maintain certification in good standing.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive substance use screening, care planning, and treatment activities.
Develop individualized care plans in collaboration with clients and the treatment team.
Provide evidence-based services, including CBT, MI, DBT, and Seeking Safety, to assigned group and/or individual caseloads.
Support clients with relapse prevention, life and coping skills, discharge and aftercare planning, and recovery support.
Coordinate with medical providers, social services, and other community resources.
Monitor client progress and maintain accurate, timely treatment records and progress notes, including daily activities, service entries, and intake and discharge documentation.
Perform toxicology testing, take and record vital signs as needed, and chart relevant information.
For residential assignments, conduct rounds every 30 minutes for 72 hours for withdrawal management clients and document withdrawal symptoms.
For residential assignments, observe and document client self-administration of medications.
Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, including DMH, DHCS, SAPC, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and CARF requirements.
Assist clients with benefits, housing, vocational, and community reintegration needs.
Respond safely and within scope of practice to behavioral crises, medical emergencies, suicidal ideation, overdose, including administration of anti-overdose medication as needed, and acute intoxication.
Occasionally provide transportation for clients, including DPSS and other linkages.
Report and record observed changes in client condition or behavior, including unusual incidents; identify, report, and assist with managing emergencies.
Participate in safety programming and maintain facility health and safety standards.
Attend supervision, clinical meetings, continuing education, meetings, and trainings; participate in committees as assigned.
Participate in treatment team meetings, case conferences, and program planning.
Contribute to agency quality assurance and improvement initiatives.
Maintain professional boundaries and standards, treat clients with respect and concern, and comply with confidentiality requirements.
Maintain familiarity with BHS policies, procedures, and applicable regulations, and perform job duties accordingly.
Represent BHS well in all contacts; courteously answer phones, direct calls, and take messages.
Facilitate client external communication as approved by a supervisor.
Perform other duties as assigned.