Counselor I- Masters Level

Statement of Purpose

Under the direct supervision of the Program Director/Supervisor, the Counselor I - Master's Level provides treatment and recovery services to participating clients, monitors, documents, and supports client treatment progress, maintains ethical and evidence-based care, and participates in treatment team activities.

Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive substance use screening, assessment, care planning, and treatment activities, inclusive of co-occurring disorders

• Develop individualized care plans in collaboration with clients and treatment team

• Provide evidence-based services (e.g., CBT, MI, DBT, Seeking Safety) to assigned group and/or individual caseload

• Support clients with relapse prevention, life and coping skills, discharge and aftercare planning, and recovery support

• Coordinate with medical providers, social services, and other community resources

• Monitor client progress and maintain accurate and timely treatment records and progress notes (e.g., daily activities, service entries, intake and discharge documentation, etc.)

• Perform toxicology testing, take and record vitals as needed, chart relevant information

• For Counselors assigned to residential programs, make rounds every 30 minutes for 72 hours on withdrawal management clients, document and record withdrawal symptoms.

• For Counselors assigned to residential programs, observe and document client self- administration of medications.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, including but not limited to DMH, DHCS, SAPC, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, CARF, etc.

• Assist clients with benefits, housing, vocational, and community reintegration needs

• Respond to behavioral crises, medical emergencies, suicidal ideation, overdose including administration of anti-overdose medications as needed, or acute intoxication safely, within scope of practice

• Occasionally provide transportation for clients including DPSS appointments and other linkages.

• Report and record any changes observed in client condition or behavior, including unusual incidents. Identify, report, and assist with the management of emergencies.

• Participate in safety programming to promote client and staff safety. Maintain health and safety standards of facility.

• Attend supervision, clinical meetings, and continuing education to maintain credentials.

• Participate in treatment team meetings, case conferences, and program planning.

• Contribute to agency quality assurance and improvement initiatives.

• Maintain professional boundaries and standards. Treat clients with respect, care, and concern. Comply with confidentiality requirements at all times.

• Maintain familiarity with BHS policies and procedures and other applicable regulations; perform job duties accordingly. Represent BHS well in all contacts.

• Courteously answer phones, appropriately directing calls and taking messages. Facilitate client external communication as approved by supervisor.

• Attend meetings and trainings, and participate in committees as assigned.

• Other duties as assigned.

Counselor I - Master's Level Competencies and Performance Expectations:

• Ability to complete the above major tasks, duties, and responsibilities.

• Ability to demonstrate professional judgment and decision-making, including the ability to recognize and seek out supervision and/or consultation when required.

• Ability to demonstrate familiarity with and practice of 12 core competencies for SUD counselors.

• Ability to demonstrate and apply knowledge of evidence-based practices, medications for addiction treatment, community resources, self-help support, and treatment philosophies, and advanced knowledge of co-occurring disorders.

• Ability to effectively document within the required note structures (e.g., SOAP, GIRP, etc.)

• Ability to recognize the symptoms and develop knowledge of appropriate treatment associated with substance use and co-occurring disorders (i.e., mental health, medical health, etc.)

• Ability to identify and respond appropriately to a crisis within scope of practice including but not limited to overdose, behavioral challenges, contraband protocol, emergency codes, etc.

• Ability to screen and/or assess for acute intoxication and withdrawal symptoms within scope of practice.

• Ability to meet productivity standards as assigned.

• Ability to recognize personal biases within diverse populations. Maintain cultural sensitivity at all times.

• Ability to adhere to professional standards.

Required Education:

• Counseling certification.

Required Experience:

• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a counseling or mental health setting.
• Experience working with diverse populations and understanding of cultural sensitivities.
• Familiarity with behavioral health services and therapeutic practices.

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to conduct assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Proficient in crisis intervention and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of ethical and legal standards in counseling practice.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in using electronic health records and other relevant software applications.