Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Job Category: Counseling Requisition Number: SUBST004972

Posted: June 4, 2026

Full-Time On-site 1320 Marion Barry Ave SE Washington, DC 20020, USA

Description

Requirements: Bachelor's or Master's in human services or related field + CAC l, CAC ll, LGPC, LGSW, LICSW, or LPC in Washington, DC

Pay Range: $30 - $32 per hour + potential quarterly bonus

(**Hiring Incentive Bonus $1,000**)

Behavioral Health Group (BHG) is the largest network of Joint Commission-accredited treatment centers and the leading provider of opioid addiction treatment services. We are dedicated to helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. With over 116 locations in 24 states, our team of more than 1,900 employees serves over 42,000 patients.

Job Summary:

As a Counselor at Behavioral Health Group (BHG), you will assist patients in identifying and leveraging their strengths to achieve social, educational, and occupational goals. You will help patients prepare for and adjust to a drug-free life, providing emotional and physical support for various challenges. Reporting to the Counselor Supervisor or Program Director, you will ensure adherence to schedules, program policies, and all regulatory requirements, performing duties within the scope of your license or certification.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct regular alcohol and drug abuse counseling sessions and group sessions as required.
• Orient patients to treatment program operations and procedures.
• Collect and assess social, educational, economic, and vocational information.
• Develop and revise patient treatment plans, maintaining comprehensive records.
• Make appropriate referrals and perform necessary follow-ups.
• Assist in implementing new programs and advise on caseload management.
• Provide in-service training to staff and hold a basic understanding of addiction.
• Conduct intake/readmission services and provide supportive follow-up counseling.
• Provide crisis intervention and inter-agency documentation.
• Coordinate care with community providers as needed.
• Participate in and provide in-service training required by federal, state, local, and accrediting agencies.
• Attend conferences, meetings, and training programs.
• Schedule and attend regular in-service training.
• Perform OBOT services and report any work-related issues immediately.
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisory team.
• Comply with all federal, state, and local regulatory agency requirements.
• Adhere to accrediting agency standards.
• Participate in community and public relations activities as assigned.
• Demonstrate a commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's in human services or related field. CAC l, CAC ll, LGPC or LPC required.
• Experience in behavioral health preferred, not required.
• In addition to meeting the qualifications, the ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics and possess the knowledge, skills and abilities listed below:
• Ability to make decisions and use proper judgment with confidential and sensitive issues
• Ability to deal appropriately with patient and team members in stressful or other undesirable situations and to seek direction from supervisors when necessary
• Must be able to react quickly and make effective decisions
• Ability to demonstrate sufficient knowledge and understanding of human behavior to show potential for rehabilitating drug dependent patients
• Knowledge of the substance abuse population, treatment planning and the field of human social services to work toward the rehabilitation of the patient community
• Compliance with federal and state regulations regarding certification, licensure, and degree.

Why Join BHG?

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous paid time off, holidays, and personal needs. Benefit from flexible schedules with early in/early out hours, no nights, and no Sundays.
• Investment in Your Growth: Prioritize your development with role-based training and advancement opportunities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Choose from three benefits programs, including health, life, vision, and dental insurance. Enjoy tuition reimbursement and 401K plan with discretionary match.
• Recognition and Rewards: Experience competitive pay, quarterly bonuses, and incentives for certifications or licenses.
• Employee Perks: Access exclusive discounts on various services and entertainment options, and benefit from our Employee Assistance Program and self-care series.

At BHG, we thrive on the greatness of our people. Join us and become part of a community that values excellence, integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others.

BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.

Starting Pay Range: $30-$32 per hour

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.