Substance Abuse Counselor

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provide direct intervention and assessment services to individuals, groups, and families. Provide substance abuse treatment services and will include, among others, substance abuse education, screening and assessment for appropriate treatment using appropriate co-occurring disorder screening tools and the Addiction Severity Index (ASI), diagnosis using the current DSM, placement in the appropriate treatment setting using the Level of Care Instrument (LOCI), and outpatient drug and alcohol treatment. Provide services to individuals suffering from the effects of drug abuse/addiction and include planned intervention strategies for affected family members or significant others as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, focusing on individual growth and development with the goal of achieving healthy lifestyles. Responsible for maintenance of client and program records for clients to ensure that services are provided and documented in accordance with DOH and Medicaid Standards. Provide consultation, education, and training when requested and as needed. Work with Director of Clinical Services to develop and implement specialized programming for target populations. Must participate in the assessment process with each client and utilize this information in the development of an individualized treatment plans. Must serve as a member of the Crisis Intervention Team which includes serving on beeper duty on a rotating basis. Ensure that all billing and recording functions are conducted in compliance with all ethical and legal standards. Maintain confidentiality for all information regarding clients, staff, physicians, and GCLC obtained as a result of employment at GCLC. It is the policy of the Guidance Center of Lea County to design and deliver services that focus on hope, healing, and quality of life and to enhance and build protective factors in the clients we serve through programs that serve adolescents and adults. All services provided are to be culturally sensitive and incorporate recovery and resiliency values into all service interventions. All other duties as assigned by the Director of Clinical Services.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Bachelor’s degree in human service field and LSAA licensure. Two years of experience working with the target population is preferred. Employee is responsible for obtaining continuing education to maintain appropriate licensure and to attend in-service training sessions designed to provide training in accordance with GCLC, DOH and Medicaid Standards. Knowledge of family systems model and various treatment modalities is mandatory. New Mexico License and clear Criminal Records Check are required. Bilingual (English/Spanish) ability is preferred but not required.