Bernalillo

CorrHealth•Albuquerque, NM

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The LADAC provides professional substance use counseling and support services to incarcerated individuals within a correctional healthcare environment. This role focuses on assessment, treatment planning, group and individual counseling, relapse prevention, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary healthcare and custody team. The LADAC promotes recovery, rehabilitation, and reentry readiness while ensuring compliance with professional, ethical, and legal standards. The ideal candidate will show strong understanding of substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, trauma-informed care, and cultural competence in working with diverse populations.

Requirements

Current state licensure as a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) or equivalent credential required
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field preferred
Minimum 1–2 years of clinical experience in substance use disorder treatment required; correctional or forensic experience strongly preferred
Experience with evidence-based practices for substance use disorders
Clear and effective verbal and written communication with all coworkers, supervisors, jail administration, and patients
Excellent verbal and written comprehension
Excellent deductive reasoning and problem-solving abilities
Excellent organizational skills
Ability to use a computer and use/learn a variety of software, including site-specific computer programs
Must demonstrate ability to appropriately and safely use standard medical equipment
Ability to respect the dignity and confidentiality of inmates
Must maintain all certifications, educational requirements, licensing, etc. for this position
Must have current TB test (taken within one year)
Must adhere to all facility policies and procedures as well as the policies and procedures listed in the Employee Handbook
Willing to assist coworkers in the job duties and work overtime if required; may act as a resource to other coworkers
Maintains confidentiality, dignity, and security of health records and protected health information in compliance with HIPAA requirements
Must undergo security training and orientation on facility safety policies and procedures
Ability to both remain stationary and move/traverse throughout the facility, including up and down flights of stairs
Ability to position oneself in different spaces
Ability to convey and discern information in a conversation, frequently communicate with patients; must be able to exchange accurate information.
Ability to identify and detect objects and assess situations from a variety of distances
Ability to stay calm in stressful and demanding situations
Frequently transports objects up to 50 pounds
Must be able to pass a background check and pre-employment drug test (as applicable)

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive substance use assessments, screenings, and evaluations in accordance with state licensure requirements and facility policy
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans that address substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health issues, and criminogenic needs
Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions using evidence-based practices (e.g., CBT, Motivational Interviewing, relapse prevention)
Provide education on substance use, recovery, coping skills, and community resources
Document all clinical interactions, assessments, and progress notes accurately and in compliance with correctional healthcare standards, HIPAA, and state requirements
Collaborate with medical, mental health, and custody staff to coordinate comprehensive care
Support continuity of care by actively collaborating with discharge planer to ensure referrals, and linkage to community-based treatment programs are in place upon release
Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, case reviews, and staff training
Maintain professional boundaries and uphold ethical standards while working in a correctional environment
Respond to emergencies, crises, and acute behavioral health needs as required