Counselor

Job Description

Under the direction of leadership, the counselor is responsible for maintaining charts on his/her caseload. The counselor is responsible for the treatment of those clients assigned to their caseload, providing all necessary services and referral services. The counselor is responsible for getting authorization for each client as needed in NJSAMS. This position supports organizational goals by providing quality customer service, participating in performance improvement efforts and demonstrating a commitment to teamwork and cooperation.

Assessing the counseling needs of the clients. Assessing clients using the ASI or other standardized clinical interview tool, and determining the appropriate level of care according to ASAM Criteria. Obtaining previous records that are relevant to the current treatment episode. Collaborating with the client to develop a written treatment plan that includes goals and measurable objectives, and is client centered, recovery oriented. Providing the substance use counseling services specified in the client treatment plan. Reviewing clients throughout the treatment episode according to the ASAM Criteria, to determine the need for continued services, transfer, or discharge/transfer. Reviewing and, where necessary, revising the client treatment plan to address ongoing problems. Developing a client discharge/transfer plan to ensure movement to the appropriate levels of care. Contact, case consultation if necessary, and coordination with referral sources, (for example, mental health treatment providers, criminal justice agencies, schools, employers, DCPP). Participating as a member of a multidisciplinary team for assigned clients. Providing active case consultation. Documenting all counseling and education services, assessments, reassessments, referrals and follow-up in the client's clinical record, and providing appropriate signatures and dating of such entries, including those made in electronic records within 24 hours of the service provision. Responsible for completing the ASI (or other assessment tool), TPR, authorizations and progress notes in accordance with OPMM policy and grant requirements. Conducts individual/group counseling sessions as required by grant requirements. Participates in training and education workshops, both internal and external; as directed by the supervisor and clinical director. Communicates regularly with the unit supervisor and keeps them up to date, informing supervisor of any unusual incidents and completes appropriate documentation. Responsible for gathering current materials and relevant information for the purpose of conducting educational/didactic lectures. Maintains departmental records and ensures confidentiality of departmental and client records in accordance with state, federal and HIPPA regulations. Knows and adheres to policy and procedures of JBRC and the unit. Follows departmental procedures for use of time records and reporting absences. Assists with monitoring U/A specimens for clients and external referral sources. Establishes and maintains a positive and cooperative working relationship with outside agencies. Performs other related duties as assigned by Clinical Supervisor and other management as required. Responsible for being a member of the multidisciplinary team as assigned to caseload.

Qualifications

Education: High School diploma or equivalent required

License/Certification: CADC, LSW or LAC. Annual CPI required within 90 days of hire or transfer. American Heart Association BLS (BLSHCP) and HSFA required within 90 days of hire or transfer.

Experience: Knowledgeable in addiction terminology required. Ability to multitask required. Excellent time management skills required.

Performance Expectations Demonstrates the technical competencies as established on the Assessment and Evaluation Tool.

Work Environment This position requires repetitive motion, hearing, pushing, reaching, and reading, seeing, speaking, sitting, standing and walking a majority of the time. Spends time with such equipment as a computer terminal, fax machine, copier, and telephone. Essential functions of this position are listed on the Assessment and Evaluation Tool.

Reporting Relationship This position reports to department leadership.