SUD Counselor - Residential

McAlister Institute for Treatment & Education • Lemon Grove, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

McAlister Institute is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor to support clients in residential and other treatment settings. Reporting to the site Program Manager, the counselor provides individual and group counseling, conducts assessments, develops treatment plans, and supports clients through recovery. The role serves adult and/or teen programs and works with clients with diverse needs, including co-occurring conditions, chronic substance use, and mental health challenges.

The counselor delivers evidence-based, culturally competent, trauma-informed services and collaborates with a multidisciplinary team and community resources. This is an on-site, full-time position with a Monday through Friday shift from 3:30 PM to 12:00 AM. The listed pay range is $21.00–$30.00 per hour. Employment is contingent on the required pre-employment screening and other stated requirements.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Certified or registered SUD Counselor through CAADE, CADTP, or equivalent.
• At least two years of experience in behavioral health services.
• Experience working with adults in a counseling or therapeutic setting.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Empathy for and knowledge of the needs of clients with co-occurring conditions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in substance use treatment.
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and ability to apply it in counseling.
• Proficiency in maintaining confidential client records and case documentation.
• Knowledge of legal guidelines pertaining to EMTALA/COBRA and abuse/neglect reporting.
• Knowledge of harm reduction, trauma-informed care, patient-centered care, and motivational interviewing.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations, including impoverished and unhoused people and people experiencing chronic substance use and/or mental health challenges.
• Ability to communicate and adapt professionally, remain calm, and help defuse crisis or high-intensity situations with medical professionals, laypersons, clients, and families.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency with electronic health record systems such as Welligent or Smartcare.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, listen without interrupting, regulate emotions under stress, remain open to others’ ideas, and try new things.
• Valid, unrestricted California Driver’s License and a good driving record free of major infractions.
• Ability to pass pre-employment screening, including references, education verification, criminal background check, drug test, and negative TB test; at least one year clear of probation or parole.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application; visa sponsorship is not provided.
• Successful completion of required pre-employment checks, including fingerprinting and a pre-employment physical examination.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated success working with clients referred through agencies such as the Probation Department, Child Welfare Services, Dependency Drug Court, and the criminal justice system.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English.

Responsibilities

• Uphold and promote McAlister Institute’s mission, philosophy, values, and direction.
• Maintain an active caseload and provide individual and group counseling in adult and/or teen programs.
• Conduct comprehensive, individualized screening and assessments, including the ASI and ASAM PCC, to determine client needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Facilitate evidence-based, culturally competent, trauma-informed treatment programs and interventions tailored to the population served.
• Collaborate with social workers, therapists, case managers, medical professionals, and other multidisciplinary team members.
• Educate clients and their families about recovery and available resources.
• Coordinate with community resources and provide referrals when necessary.
• Perform other assigned duties as needed.
• Comply with agency and contract requirements related to training, public health, certifications, and reporting.

Benefits

• 13 paid annual holidays, including the employee’s birthday.
• 12 paid vacation days.
• Paid sick leave.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
• 403(b) retirement plan with up to 6% employer match.
• Health insurance available the first of the month following 30 days of employment (Sharp).
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: High school or GED