Program Counselor

Reporting Relationship(s):
Position reports to the Prevention Program Manager FLSA Classification:
Non-Exempt

General Summary

Prevention Counselors provide evidenced based programing (EBPs) in classrooms, groups and individual sessions with students/youth at risk for substance use in school-based settings. They provide time-limited, prevention-focused individual and group counseling, classroom education, consultation, and referral services to adolescents and families participating in a school-based substance use and problem gambling prevention and early intervention program. Services include initial screening, risk/protective factor assessment, referral, and service planning. Prevention Counselors support student mental health and well-being, promote informed decision-making, and collaborate with school staff and community providers. Services are not clinical treatment or therapy and do not serve individuals with an existing diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or Problem Gambling Disorder.

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Provide prevention counseling services to individuals, groups, and families, with attention to developmental and cultural appropriateness.
2. Conduct screenings and assessments using OASAS-approved tools to evaluate risk and protective factors related to substance misuse and/or problem gambling.
3. Determine service eligibility and admission criteria; refer students who fall outside prevention scope to appropriate treatment or support services.
4. Develop and implement short-term individualized service plans with specific, time-limited goals based on assessment findings.
5. Monitor and document participant progress toward service plan goals; ensure timely disposition and discharge planning.
6. Collaborate with school personnel, community providers, and families to coordinate services and support student needs.
7. Serve as a mental health/substance use prevention consultant to school staff; participate in school support teams and behavioral intervention meetings.
8. Design and implement educational groups, awareness campaigns, and prevention activities for students, staff, families, and the broader school community.
9. Provide crisis support in schools when needed.
10. Maintain clear, accurate, and confidential participant records according to OASAS documentation as applicable.
11. Ensure all records conform to 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and agency data privacy protocols.
12. Participate in peer consultation, case reviews, and professional development activities.
13. Complete all required program and/or funder training and all agency required training such as NYS Mandated Reporter and Sexual Harassment.
14. Report incidents in compliance with OASAS regulations.
15. Participate in school and/or community functions such as Family Nights, Open House, Resource Fairs.
16. Participate in staff meetings, agency meetings and events.

Education and Licensure Requirements

Bachelors degree in social work, Counseling, Public Health, Psychology, Human Services, or a related behavioral or social science field.
NYS licensure preferred, including LMSW, LCSW, LMFT, or LMHC.
NYS Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) preferred.
Experience in substance abuse, mental health, or prevention services preferred.
Related experience in counseling, school based and working with youth may be considered in lieu of certain credentials.

Previous Experience Requirement

Minimum of one (1) year experience providing mental health or substance use counseling to youth (ages 1221) in a school or community-based setting preferred.

Knowledge and Skills Needed to Perform Effectively in this Position

Strong knowledge of OASAS prevention models, public health frameworks, and evidence-based practices.
Strong facilitation skills with experience delivering presentations and trainings to diverse audiences.
Proficiency in data entry, program evaluation, and outcome reporting; familiarity with WITNYS and EMR systems preferred.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in dynamic school environments.

Additional Requirements

Must submit to and pass background checks by the Office of Mental Health, the NYS Justice Center, the NYS Department of Education, and educational verification if required.
Flexible schedule required, including some evening and weekend hours.
Ability to travel and work at different school sites and community settings.
Recognize and value diversity within the work environment. Be an effective team player, value and be respectful of individual differences.
Access to reliable daily transportation to travel to school and community sites as needed.
Follow School Services Attendance and PTO policies and procedures.

Physical Dimensions (Job-related physical abilities an individual needs to possess in order to perform the job in a satisfactory manner)

Regular walking, driving, and the ability to lift up to 20 pounds.
Reasonable accommodation will be made for individuals with disabilities.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Note: This position description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the program. This document does not constitute a contract of employment, implied or otherwise. Employment remains at-will.

Contact Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.

Compensation details: 33-36 Hourly Wage

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