Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Title of Position: AOD Counselor
Location: Gateways Substance Use Disorder Programs
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt
Union/ Non-Union: Non-Union
Supervisor: Program Supervisor


Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center's Outpatient Healing and Addiction Recovery program is a newly certified program. Candidates will have the opportunity to be a part of an exciting start up phase that will include outreach and engagement of new clients, establishing community partnerships with other county providers and participating in program development. We are looking for highly motivated, energetic and qualified individuals who can help us establish our new program and bring much needed services to a vulnerable population of clients in our community. We invite you to consider joining our team and be a part of an exciting phase of expansion and growth for Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center!

SUMMARY OF POSITION
Reporting to the Program Supervisor, the Registered Alcohol and Drug (AOD) Counselor provides case management services, conducts assessments and screenings, coordinates care, and provides individual/family and group counseling to the adolescent and adult outpatient clients. The Registered AOD Counselor will support integrating other services within the client's treatment plans, such as housing, legal, educational, and vocational services.

Higher compensation is provided for Certified AOD Counselors, with a base pay increase available upon achieving certification.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

• Conducts Initial Screening, Assessment, Service Authorization Requirements, Treatment Plan, Group Counseling, Patient Education, Individual Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Family Counseling, Collateral Services, and Discharge Services.
• Evaluate the client's needs and determine if referrals to other programs or facilities are needed.
• Ensure all client care, treatment, and incident documentation is completed promptly, clearly, and concisely.
• Accurately documents all work with the client and/or family and/or relevant persons, per regulatory agency and Gateways' requirements, and as measured by QA standards and peer review audit results.
• Interfaces with such agencies as the Department of Mental Health, Department of Adult Protective Services, criminal justice services, public health, and other related community agencies
• Participates in case conferences, staff meetings, community meetings, and supervision or consultation.
• Coordinate service provision with external case managers, school staff, probation officers, county workers, etc.
• Establishes and maintains rapport and effective working relationships with clients, families, and community; works effectively within the agency and the community.
• Maintains confidential information regarding clients, families, and agency operations.
• Maintains a professional relationship with clients, staff, and outside stakeholders.
• Exercises good judgment in the performance of duties and responsibilities.
• Attends all required staff training sessions following agency and state licensing requirements and develops counselor skills through seminars, workshops, or other forms of training and education.
• Higher compensation provided for Certified AOD Counselors, with a base pay increase available upon achieving certification
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATES

Minimum Education Required:

• High school diploma (or GED) or AA degree.
• Registered (RADT) in one of the state-approved certification agencies for substance abuse. Certification is preferred.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS

• One year experience in a related social service/mental health or substance use environment.

REQUIREMENTS

• Must pass Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI)
• Valid California Driver's license.
• TB clearance.
• Driving record acceptable for coverage by Gateways insurance carrier.

As you consider taking the next step in your career, these are some of the exciting and competitive benefits we offer:

• Student loan forgiveness qualifying employer
• Alternative work schedule
• Medical and dental insurance
• PTO for vacation, sick time, bereavement, and personal holidays
• Bilingual bonus pay, when applicable
• Work alongside a talented, collaborative, and compassionate interdisciplinary team
• Receive professional development support from a supportive management team, and more!