Addictions Counselor

Addictions Counselor-(24141641)

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has a career opportunity within the Montana Chemical Dependency Center.

The Montana Chemical Dependency Center (MCDC) is the only in-patient chemical dependency treatment center administered by the State of Montana.This treatment center provides medically monitored detoxification and treatment services to individuals 18 years or older who have been diagnosed with substance use disorders.MCDC is licensed for 48 beds.

The behavioral health program at MCDC emphasizes the importance of educational, interactive, and skills based co-occurring treatment. The Mental Health Therapist facilitates evidence-based services in individual and group based settings in order to meet the needs of men and women who suffer from emotional disturbances, and chemical dependency addictions in accordance with ASAM criteria identified for 3.7 and 3.5 levels of inpatient care.

Why Join DPHHS

Our mission at DPHHS is to serve Montanans in their communities to improve and protect the health, safety, and well-being, and to empower independence. By joining our department, you will have the opportunity to perform meaningful work in public service to our state and its residents.

The State of Montana's comprehensive benefits package includes healthcare coverage, retirement plans, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, work/life balance, and eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. In addition, DPHHS is the largest state agency with a wide range of advancement opportunities whether you are joining the workforce or have several years of experience.

Qualifications for this Career Opportunity

Knowledge of chemical dependency treatment, therapeutic interventions, ASAM Criteria including placement criteria, continued stay and chemical dependency diagnoses. Knowledge of pharmacology and withdrawal syndromes, co-occurring mental disorders, family dynamics and abuse related issues. Effectively utilize knowledge and skills, and apply them to practical assessment and treatment modalities for patients. Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing with interdisciplinary team members. Knowledge of principles of human behavior, contemporary social, and economic conditions, needs, and problems relating to the patient family background, and principles of federal and state legislation pertaining to social welfare community resources. Meet minimum qualifications: Must have active Montana state license as a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), Professional Counselor Licensed Candidate (PCLC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW),or Social Worker Licensed Candidate (SWLC) upon hire. Must be eligible to be fully licensed within 1 year of hire. Dual licensure as Montana Licensed Addiction Counselor is preferred. One year of job related experience in direct clinical services preferred. Master’s degree in clinical, guidance, counseling, psychology, social work or closely related behavioral science fields with course work allowing for licensure in the State of Montana is preferred. Must have or willing to obtain prior to hire date a valid CPR/AED/FIRST AID certification card.

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