Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

JOB TITLE:
Credentialed Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)

DEPARTMENT:
Supportive Housing

FLSA:
Non-exempt

REPORTS TO:
Program Director

LOCATION:
Briarwood (Queens)

SALARY:
$50,000.00-$60,000.00

SUMMARY:

The role involves delivering counseling, case management, and various chemical dependency services aimed at addressing the social and emotional requirements of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. This position also entails coordinating local agency housing and community services to assist participants in maintaining permanent housing. Proof of COVID-19 vaccinations is mandatory.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage an individual caseload of single adult participants.
• Provide supportive counseling services.
• Conduct counseling sessions for patients enrolled in Chemical Dependency Services, applying current knowledge and skills in addiction treatment.
• Engage in the formulation of treatment plans, establishing both short-term and long-term objectives.
• Facilitate connections with community resources, offer daily life skills training, and ensure compliance with program documentation requirements.
• Incorporate team feedback into treatment plans.
• Participate in clinical team meetings to review individual cases and overall client progress.
• Communicate with all relevant agencies to ensure participant adherence to service plans.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation, including progress notes, treatment plans, and discharge summaries, ensuring timely submission.
• Identify program needs and propose recommendations.
• Provide crisis intervention and stabilization as necessary, which may include after-hours follow-up for emergencies.
• Perform additional related tasks as assigned.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Must possess current NYS certification as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor. A Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field is preferred, along with two years of experience in a similar environment or with substance abuse, mental health, and homeless populations. Bilingual Spanish is advantageous. Flexibility to work some evenings and occasional weekends is required. Strong writing and oral communication skills are essential. Proficiency in computer software applications for document drafting, data management, and tracking is necessary. Experience in crisis intervention techniques and strength-based approaches is also required. A valid driver's license and personal vehicle are mandatory.

AGENCY PROFILE & EMPLOYEE EXPECTATIONS:

Westhab is a leading community development organization dedicated to providing housing and supportive services to over 10,000 of the most vulnerable individuals in our community annually. Our team comprises dedicated professionals committed to our mission of Building Communities and Changing Lives. Working at Westhab presents challenges, and we maintain high expectations for all staff members. We believe that the individuals and communities we serve deserve our utmost effort every day. Our organization is results-driven, focusing on empowerment and impactful outcomes.

OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA):

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for ensuring safe and healthful working conditions for employees by establishing and enforcing standards, as well as providing training, outreach, education, and assistance. Westhab adheres to all applicable OSHA standards, rules, and regulations, ensuring our workplaces are free from serious recognized hazards.

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