Counselor I

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
• Gather relevant client information though screening, assessments and the taking of case histories; evaluate informational findings to determine client treatment and intensity needs.
• Formulate an individualized program structure that systemically addresses client treatment needs.
• Based on assessed needs, refer clients to other substance use treatment/supportive needs services, such as medically based providers and other treatment arenas and/or support groups.
• Conduct individual and group substance use counseling sessions as appropriate to licensure level and within the guidelines of the Department's clinical structure.
• Provide treatment oriented educational-based group facilitation following guidelines and protocols consistent with the Department's chosen treatment modality.
• Initiate and maintain accurate case files; document notes relevant to provided care; maintain record of referrals and related forms.
• Prepare documents for presentation; prepare detailed client progress reports as required.
• Maintain ethical standards of practice, professional competence, conduct and integrity, confidentiality, responsibility to clients and responsibility to the profession per New Mexico occupation and professional licensing board standards.
• Maintain client caseload from outpatient clinic and detention center
• Attend staff meetings and team conferences as assigned.
• Additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned by Clinical Manager and/or Director
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education:
• Current and valid New Mexico licensure as a Licensed Substance abuse Advisor (LSAA) or Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC).
o OR a current provisional license from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department in any of the above-mentioned license types may conditionally serve to satisfy the licensure requirement. The provisional license shall only serve in meeting the licensure requirement for as long as it remains valid. Failure to maintain an active licensure status shall violate the
Counselor I - Health & Wellness - Job Specs Page 2
conditional employment.
• Three (3) years of experience in alcohol/substance abuse treatment.
Experience:
• Knowledge of alcohol in substance abuse theory and treatment; knowledge of a range of treatment modalities used in treating substance abuse; knowledge of community-based service programs utilized in treating substance abuse clients.
• Knowledge of operations and activities of an addiction treatment program.
• Knowledge of legal and ethical issues related to clients' rights.
• Ability to develop, implement, evaluate and modify therapeutic program services based up the clients' needs.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to write reports containing technical information.
• Ability to utilize discretion and independent judgment; must be able to maintain strict confidentiality of client records.
• Skilled in the use of computers to general reports and maintain records.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working interactions with management, coworkers, County officials and the general public.
• Bilingual (English and Spanish) desirable.
Certifications, Skills and Licenses:
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing in English.
• Valid New Mexico driver's license.
• Computer literacy required; knowledge of word processing and database management software strongly preferred.
• Licensed at the minimum level of a Licensed Substance Abuse Associate required (see experience requirements above for additional options).
• Knowledge of or ability to learn computer-assisted DWI treatment programs.
• Ability to comply with all HIPAA requirements.
• Good communications and public relations skills required