Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

Description Position Summary The Certified Substance Abuse Counselor is responsible for providing individual, group, and family therapy to individuals with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders under the supervision of the Clinical Director. This role includes clinical assessment, treatment planning, documentation, crisis intervention, collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, and adherence to regulatory and ethical standards. Clinicians at Wildwood Recovery Center deliver trauma-informed, person-centered, and recovery-oriented care while maintaining professional boundaries, cultural sensitivity, and compliance with Virginia licensing and billing requirements. Key Responsibilities Direct Clinical Services Maintain an active caseload of up to 12 clients, providing individual, group, and family counseling services in accordance with program requirements and level of care. Facilitate group therapy sessions using evidence-based, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented approaches. Complete biopsychosocial assessments, treatment planning, and discharge planning for assigned clients. Provide crisis intervention and clinical support as needed. Ensure clients receive appropriate clinical services consistent with treatment goals and level of care. Treatment Planning & Client Care Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients. Monitor client progress and adjust treatment interventions as clinically appropriate. Participate in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings and coordinate care with medical, residential, and case management staff. Ensure services align with ASAM level of care guidelines, evidence-based practices, and program policies. Support clients in developing coping skills, relapse prevention strategies, and long-term recovery plans. Documentation & Regulatory Compliance Complete all clinical documentation in a timely and accurate manner in accordance with DBHDS, Medicaid, Joint Commission, and payer requirements. Maintain complete and up-to-date client records including assessments, progress notes, treatment plans, and discharge documentation. Ensure documentation reflects medical necessity and supports the level of care provided. Participate in audits, chart reviews, and quality improvement activities as required. Report incidents, client concerns, or clinical issues in accordance with facility policy. Coordination & Communication Collaborate with the Medical Director, nursing staff, residential staff, and case management to ensure coordinated and integrated client care. Communicate effectively with admissions staff regarding clinical appropriateness of referrals and level-of-care determinations. Coordinate with external providers, referral sources, and community resources to support continuity of care. Maintain professional, ethical, and trauma-informed interactions with clients, families, and staff. Support a safe, structured, and recovery-focused treatment environment. Requirements Education and Experience Candidates must hold a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) active credential OR be actively working toward one with appropriate supervision for billing (CSAC-S). Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, Psychology, or related human services field preferred. Experience providing therapy for substance use and mental health disorders preferred. Training or experience in trauma-informed care, CBT, DBT, MI, or other evidence-based modalities preferred. Skills/Abilities Strong therapeutic and clinical assessment skills. Excellent verbal and written communication and documentation skills. Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Crisis management and de-escalation skills. Cultural humility and ability to work with diverse populations. Compassionate, ethical, and client-centered. Professional, reliable, and committed to high-quality care. Strong boundaries, self-awareness, and integrity in practice. #J-18808-Ljbffr