Rehabilitation Counselor (A/B) - Recovery from Addictions Program

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Taunton, MA

About The Position

The Recovery from Addictions Program (RAP), operated by the Department of Mental Health in collaboration with the Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Addiction Services, is seeking two self-motivated Rehabilitation Counselors to provide rehabilitative services to clients. The work includes developing and implementing activities, establishing groups with treatment teams, and assessing and evaluating clients. The role requires compliance with federal regulations, including 42 CFR Part 2 and Part 8, the Confidentiality of Alcohol Abuse Policy, and HIPAA Regulations. RAP serves individuals civilly committed by the courts for substance use treatment for up to 90 days. Its program model provides acute detoxification and early clinical stabilization services, while helping clients develop community-based connections to outpatient supports and substance use disorder treatment providers. The program provides administrative, medical, clinical, and non-clinical services and is committed to quality client-centered care and recovery-oriented treatment. The position is scheduled for 40 hours per week, Sunday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with Friday and Saturday off. A criminal background check is required before hiring. Education, licensure, and certifications will be verified. The position is subject to state vaccination or mitigation requirements for COVID-19 and influenza.

Requirements

Knowledge of motivational enhancement and reinforcement techniques.
Knowledge of the principles and techniques of Therapeutic Recreation.
Knowledge of factors, trends, and problems in providing recreation services to special client groups, including people with mental or physical disabilities and older adults.
Knowledge of a variety of individual and group recreational activities.
Ability to interact with people under physical and/or emotional stress.
Ability to set limits and reinforce rules.
Understanding of boundaries and ethics.
Ability to de-escalate situations.
Ability to plan, assign, and coordinate activities.
Computer skills, including maintaining electronic case records and navigating and using software programs.
Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others.
Ability to communicate verbally and in writing in a professional manner and maintain accurate records and treatment-related information according to program policies, protocols, and procedures.
Ability to exercise group leadership and provide instruction and training to clients.
At least two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional or paraprofessional experience in social work, social casework, vocational counseling, employment counseling, rehabilitation counseling, or educational counseling, subject to the stated education and licensure substitutions.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience working with clients with primary substance use disorders.

Responsibilities

Provide groups that meet patients’ needs and goals.
Plan leisure activities as directed by a supervisor or department head, including scheduling, acquiring materials and supplies, and coordinating services with other hospital units and departments.
Publicize activities to enhance clients’ quality of life in the program.
Complete treatment notes for patients involved in groups and document progress related to person-centered goals.
Complete activity and vocational program schedules monthly.
Attend assigned meetings.
Complete confidential documentation and data entry accurately and promptly in accordance with established policies, protocols, and procedures.
Maintain and monitor rehabilitation areas and supplies for safety, security, and cleanliness.
Follow hospital-wide operational protocols and department procedures for rehabilitation areas, and report concerns or events promptly to a supervisor or designee.
Participate in scheduled supervision meetings to exchange feedback about assignments, requirements, performance needs, and developing knowledge in recreation and mental health.
Maintain person-centered approach practices.