Substance Use Counselor
About The Position
This exciting new position builds upon Fortune’s decades-long partnership with the NYC Department of Correction (DOC) and NYC Health + Hospitals/Correctional Health Services to offer vital services to persons in custody (PICs) on Rikers Island, and facilitating referrals to community supports post-release. Reporting to the CASAC Supervisor, the Substance Use Counselor will be responsible for conducting evidence-based therapeutic groups and screening non-classed individuals within the general population to identify those who may struggle with substance use disorder and refer them, as appropriate, for a higher level of assessment. Substance Use Counselors may engage in the occasional individual counseling session, though they will not carry a caseload or conduct regularly scheduled treatment visits with PICs. Individuals in this role will work closely with their respective supervisors to provide accurate, timely documentation of group services and screening outcomes which may often identify individuals who might qualify for additional services through Correctional Health Services (CHS). Core Competencies: Mission Fit The ideal candidate(s) will demonstrate an interest in, and talent for, working with people with criminal justice system involvement within the NYC jail environment. The successful candidates will understand the impacts that exposure to the criminal justice system may have had, and continues to have, on clients and demonstrate commitment to providing support. Candidates will also have demonstrated a commitment to using respectful, constructive means of communication when interacting with clients and colleagues. Individuals within this role must also utilize a strengths-based, person-centered approach and endorse the concept of looking for the best in people, rather than judging them by their worst decision(s). Clinical Expertise The ideal candidates will demonstrate an understanding of all substance use disorder (‘SUD’) diagnostic categories, and the general criteria and theoretical frameworks for treatment. The successful candidates will have knowledge of, and experience with, the administration of evidence-based screening tools (such as SMAST, DAST-10, PCL-9). Substance Use Counselors will have practical experience treating individuals with SUD and co-occurring diagnoses through evidence-based individual and group therapy practices. Deep awareness of the principles and techniques of motivational interviewing (‘MI’) and the incorporation of a harm reduction approach is also required. Time Management & Documentation This position requires solid time management skills as the person must manage multiple groups in more than one NYC jail housing unit, keeping to schedules that can change on short notice, completing paperwork accurately, and staying current with various ancillary tasks. The position also requires good computer skills, familiarity with using an electronic health record (EHR) system, and solid typing skills to facilitate completing all documentation correctly and in a timely manner.
Requirements
- CASAC-T/CASAC required; experience in dealing with either psychiatric issues, trauma or incarceration is strongly preferred
- Ability to secure NYC DOC volunteer services clearance
- Must have demonstrated experience with counseling individuals with substance use histories
- Ability to work independently with off-site supervision required
- Excellent client-engagement and counseling skills
- Excellent clinical documentation and time management skills
- Strong computer skills, particularly with reporting in electronic health records (EHRs)
Nice To Haves
- Bilingual Spanish-speaking preferred
- We seek talented, dedicated individuals from all walks of life who possess a strong commitment to this mission. Relevant personal experience is a plus.
Responsibilities
- Spend up to five days a week providing substance use treatment services on Rikers Island, conducting up to four groups per day, with the occasional 5th day occurring on a rotational Saturday
- Provide evidence-based therapeutic groups, 12-step meetings, harm reduction education, standalone supportive group sessions, and occasional individual counseling sessions that align with agency and DOC-approved curricula
- Conduct client assessments via evidence-based screening tools and accurately report results to the CASAC supervisor to determine next steps
- Appropriately document client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed therapeutic services with clients
- Complete all group and individual contact notes, as well as enhanced substance use screening determinations within 48 hours of interaction
- Create, prepare, and submit tracking sheets for individuals attending group to monitor for curriculum completion
- Provide individuals completing groups with appropriate certificates
- Maintain on-going clinical communication with supervisor while also maintaining productive communication with DOC, CHS, and other Fortune staff members on-site
- Appropriately advocate for needed services, and support individuals with resources and internal or external referrals
- Participate in case conferences and clinical supervision meetings
- Participate in training opportunities to engage in professional development
- Perform other duties as assigned
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
251-500 employees
