Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)

Rising Ground, Inc.•New York, NY

11d•$60,000 - $65,000•Hybrid

About The Position

In this new Clinical Support Program, Rising Ground will embed licensed professionals specializing in mental health, substance misuse, and intimate partner violence directly into child protective work in Brooklyn. These clinicians will collaborate closely with ACS staff and families to assess needs, provide tailored service recommendations, and ensure families are connected to appropriate supports. By integrating clinical expertise into frontline decision-making, Rising Ground will play a vital role in enhancing child safety and strengthening family outcomes across the borough. The full-time CASAC is responsible for assessing substance use in families referred to ACS Child Protective Services unit. The CASAC determines the impact of substance use on child safety and recommends appropriate treatment, support or harm reduction services. This position requires regular in-person presence at an ACS field office in Brooklyn or within the community. Occasional travel to other agency sites or meetings may also be required.

Requirements

Valid CASAC Credential required (CASAC-T and CASAC-P are not accepted at this time)
High School diploma or GED considered; Bachelor’s degree preferred
Experience and comfort with Evidence Based Models such as Motivational Interviewing and multiple substance use assessment measures
Authorized to work in the U.S.
Ability to travel to other Rising Ground sites (if required)
Ability to travel and work in ACS field office in Brooklyn
Ability to travel within the community

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Connections and PROMIS databases preferred

Responsibilities

Conduct substance use assessments using clinical interviews, screenings, and standardized tools.
Using EBMs such as motivational interviewing, assess readiness to change.
Contribute to CPS teams’ decision making, highlighting areas of concern related to child safety due to substance misuse.
Participate in case conferences and enrich the CPS teams’ understanding of substance use dynamics in family systems.
Refer families to community-based services and suggest appropriate levels of care based on assessment findings.
Educate CPS staff on substance use trends, treatment options, and best practices for engaging families.
Ensure that internal and external referrals are individualized and tailored to meet families’ needs, working collaboratively with our Access and Referral Department.
Ensure that warm handoffs occur in making referrals.
Participate in all relevant internal and external meetings.
Provide after-hour coverage for consultation, as needed.
Other duties as required.