Substance Abuse Counselor

Tule River Indian Health Center Inc•Porterville, CA

8d•$30 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

The Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) reports to the Behavioral Health Director and is responsible for coordinating outreach, screening, assessment, client transportation, and referrals for various services including mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence, and vocational counseling. The SAC provides treatment in collaboration with behavioral health clinicians for patients in chemical dependency programs, acting as a liaison between patients, families, medical staff, outside agencies, and employers. The role also involves tracking patient progress, assisting clients in re-entering the workforce, and demonstrating sensitivity to the needs of the Indian community and TRIHCI's goals.

Requirements

Maintains knowledge of medical terminology; medical processes, and medical/mental health procedures sufficient to perform routine patient care.
Must exercise good communication skills, be able to effectively communicate with diverse populations, and be willing to convey responsibilities to patients.
Demonstrates the ability to work independently in carrying out assignments while remaining reliable and dependable.
Demonstrates professional competency in office and healthcare abilities, including the maintenance of Client confidentiality.
Possess basic computer and database software operation knowledge and demonstrate a working knowledge of routine office hardware and equipment (e.g. printers, copiers, fax machines, etc.).
Must demonstrate the ability to maintain accurate records and preparing clear and accurate reports for informational, auditing, and operational use, including capacities for attention to detail and for reviewing and verifying accuracy of data.
Possess the ability to organize and follow one’s own work schedule (e.g. setting priorities, being available during work hours, and meeting critical deadlines).
Possess the ability to perform well in group problem-solving situations and use reason even when dealing with highly emotional topics.
Possess the ability to become knowledgeable of health needs and services provided to the Indian community both on and near the reservation.
Demonstrate the competency and integrity to maintain the confidentiality of organizational, employee, and client records.
Possess the ability to deliver effective training and presentations on technical subjects to large and/or small groups of various educational and cultural backgrounds.
Possess knowledge of federal, state and local laws and regulations governing public health, principles of mental health. laws and regulations relating to the practice of medicine and counseling.
Maintains knowledge of causes, means of transgression, and methods of control of communicable disease, principles and practices of diagnosis and treatment of common medical problems, child growth, and development.
Must be conscientious and maintain a neat and organized work area.
Maintains the ability to construct a complete care plan, perform assessments, identify problems, establish and maintain effective working relationships and provide appropriate interventions.
High school graduate or equivalency is required for this position.
Two (2) years of verifiable experience as a Clinical Dependency Counselor (CDC) or Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CDAC) is also required.
Current certification as a CDC or CDAC in the State of California is required.
Valid California driver's license and be insurable through TRIHI’s insurance agency.
Active BCLS certification are also required for this position.

Nice To Haves

Employees must demonstrate a minimum of one (1) year of sobriety to be eligible for this position.
Four (4) years of verifiable experience as a Chemical Dependency Counselor (CDC) or Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CDAC) is also preferred.

Responsibilities

Maintains and integrates current knowledge of healthcare/social services programs or operations procedures.
Coordinates referrals and services between Tribal TANF and other community organizations.
Screens individuals for mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence issues.
Develops treatment plans for Substance Abuse Counselor program's clients.
Transports individuals to county welfare or Tribal TANF programs to apply for services.
Determines other related service needs at client request.
Transports and/or accompanies clients to mental health and/or substance abuse treatment or evaluations.
Provides individual or group substance abuse counseling/treatment.
Ascertains the need for follow-up on incoming calls, correspondence, contracts, and grants.
Maintains all active and inactive program files per program funding guidelines.
Assists the CalWORKs coordinator with CalWORKs grant contracts, assuring grant compliance and procedural adherence.
Participate in all required staff meetings including any necessary trainings.
Perform general office duties or other responsibilities as needed and assigned.