Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) provides direct counseling and case management services to adolescents and families enrolled in the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). This role is responsible for conducting assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, facilitating therapy sessions, engaging families in the recovery process, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The LCDC promotes a safe, structured, and recovery-oriented environment that supports adolescent clients in achieving their treatment goals.

Chemical Dependency Counseling

• Conduct individual and group therapy utilizing evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and relapse prevention strategies.
• Provide therapeutic leadership in group counseling sessions, fostering a structured and supportive environment for client engagement.
• Deliver family counseling and education to enhance communication, strengthen support systems, and promote recovery within the family unit.
• Assess co-occurring mental health disorders and coordinate referrals to psychiatric or medical services when appropriate.
• Provide crisis intervention and supportive counseling for clients experiencing acute distress, suicidal ideation, or withdrawal symptoms.
• Educate clients and families on substance use disorders, the recovery process, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Encourage peer support and involvement in recovery-oriented community groups.
• Act as a liaison between clients and external agencies, including hospitals, probation offices, child protective services, and community-based recovery resources.
• Complete discharge planning and follow-up contacts to support continuity of care post-treatment.
• Support Continuing Education Unit (CEU) improvement initiatives by collecting and analyzing treatment outcome data.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Assessment and Treatment Planning

• Conduct comprehensive chemical dependency assessments, including psychosocial evaluations, medical history reviews, and risk assessments.
• Complete all required intake documentation (consents, releases, client forms) in compliance with Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) regulations.
• Develop individualized, person-centered treatment plans within required timeframes, with client participation and signature verification.
• Review and update treatment plans at least every 30 days to reflect client progress, setbacks, or adjustments in care.
• Utilize assessment tools such as ASAM Criteria, DSM-5 diagnostics, suicide risk assessments, and trauma screenings.
• Provide community education on substance use disorders, recovery models, and harm reduction strategies.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR), in compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) regulations.
• Ensure client records are complete, up to date, and organized to support quality assurance and audit readiness.
• Complete discharge summaries and transition plans within seven (7) days of client discharge.
• Participate in quality assurance, utilization review, and compliance audits to maintain licensing and accreditation standards.

Requirements: