Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor/Lead

VIACARE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER•Los Angeles, CA

1d•$26 - $31•Onsite

About The Position

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other addictions, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs. Population is largely Spanish-speaking, low-income immigrant adults and children. Provides a range of psychosocial assessments, diagnostic, therapeutic and case management services for individuals, couples, groups, children and families, as appropriate to the specific expectations of the position.

Requirements

Minimum of 1 year experience as a Substance Abuse or Behavioral Disorder Counselor in community mental health;
SUD Counselor (CADCA) – Requires a Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor Associate registration number;
Bilingual in Spanish and English (Required);
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions.
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Knowledge of group dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling Certificate, proof of valid driver’s license and insurance

Responsibilities

Counsel patients, individually and in groups, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, and making changes.
Maintain accurate records regarding the patients' histories and progress, services provided, and other required information.
Develop client treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories.
Review and evaluate clients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans.
Interview clients, review records, and confer with other professionals to evaluate individuals' mental and physical condition, and to determine their suitability for participation in a specific program.
Intervene as advocate for clients or patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
Provide clients or family members with referrals and information about addiction issues and available services and programs
Modify treatment plans to comply with changes in client status.
Coordinate counseling efforts with mental health professionals and doctors, nurses, and social workers.
Plan and implement follow-up and aftercare programs for clients to be discharged from treatment programs.
Conduct chemical dependency program orientation sessions.
Counsel family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with, and supporting clients or patients.
Participate as an IBH team member, and participate in case conferences and staff meetings.
Coordinate activities with courts, probation officers, community services and other post-treatment agencies.
Confer with family members or others close to clients to keep them informed of treatment planning and progress.
Follow progress of discharged patients to determine effectiveness of treatments.