Licensed Addictions Counselor I - Full Time - Behavioral Health

Hackensack Meridian Health•Montgomery, NJ

About The Position

The Licensed Addictions Counselor I provides individual, family, and group therapies, as well as case management, to individuals with substance use disorders. The position is based out of Carrier, with travel to other hospitals as needed to meet with patients. The counselor conducts intake assessments, provides evidence-based counseling to inpatient and/or IOP clients, collaborates with families and treatment teams, and maintains required clinical documentation. The role also includes supervision, ongoing professional development, participation in departmental activities, and collaboration with utilization management on peer-to-peer reviews and appeals.

Requirements

Master's degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or a related field.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proficient computer skills, including possible use of Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite.
BLS AHA Basic Health Care Life Support HCP Certification and Handle W/ Care certification within 90 days of entering the position.
Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, New Jersey Licensed Social Worker, or Associate Counselor License.
Must be working toward the Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LCADC) credential if not already licensed.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of ASAM criteria.
Knowledge of Trauma Informed Care.

Responsibilities

Complete patient intake assessments, including biopsychosocial assessments, ASAM LOC, ASI (Addiction Severity Index), and other related documents.
Obtain collateral information and engage family members, significant others, and referral sources.
Provide evidence-based substance use counseling to inpatient and/or IOP clients through individual, group, and family modalities.
Communicate patient participation and progress to the treatment team.
Identify relevant goals, objectives, and interventions for the Master Treatment Plan in the patient's chart.
Document patient progress, including group and individual progress notes, ASAM notes, NJ SAMS, and other required documentation.
Interact professionally with patients, visitors, and staff; maintain confidentiality and a courteous, cooperative, and positive attitude.
Attend weekly group supervision and regular individual supervision, and comply with applicable professional licensing board regulations.
Maintain current knowledge in the field through in-service programs, conferences, or continuing education in accordance with department policy.
Participate in departmental meetings, safety huddles, problem-solving teams, in-services, and other meetings as requested by supervisory staff.
Handle and dispose of infectious and hazardous materials according to policies and procedures.
Model the 5 Cs standards of behavior and comply with organizational ethics, codes of conduct, competencies, and standards of behavior.
Perform other related duties as assigned or requested and meet or exceed the expectations of patients, the hospital, and staff.
Work with the utilization management team to complete peer-to-peer reviews and initiate appeals.
Develop and implement specialized groups to meet the needs of the current population.