Substance Use Specialist

Substance Use Specialist

Under the direction of the ACT Team Leader and Designee, the Substance Use Specialist will be responsible for providing services to older adults with serious mental illness as part of an ACT team. This role focuses on ensuring consumer success in community living and psychiatric stabilization by providing Integrated Dual Disorder Treatment (IDDT) to consumers with dual mental health and substance abuse issues. The Substance Use Specialist provides and coordinates assessment, treatment, planning, and services for substance use based on the needs of the individual. Evidence-based approaches are a focus, with demonstrated knowledge in Motivational Interviewing and Harm-Reduction approaches.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Provide direct services and/or facilitate access to community support services (medical, mental health, substance abuse, social/recreational services, housing, entitlements) within an interdisciplinary team
• Manage caseload of up to 15 seniors with serious mental illness, ensuring comprehensive coordination of care, rehabilitation and wrap-around support to enhance independence, community connection, and goal achievement
• Conduct screenings, intakes, and bio-psychosocial assessments; assist in developing Individualized Service Plans (ISPs).
• Provides and coordinates assessment, treatment, planning, and services for substance use based on the needs of the consumer.
• Maintain accurate charting and documentation as per requirements.
• Provide crisis intervention, including emergency hospital admission support.
• Actively participate in program activities and team meetings, including daily clinical meetings.
• Be able to work flexible hours, including evenings/weekends as needed.
• Rotate coverage of the ACT Emergency Phone with other members of the team, which will include 24/7 coverage of possible outreach from clients or treatment providers.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Demonstrated training and/or experience in delivering evidence-based practices, such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proficient in computer literacy.
• Multitasking efficiently on a regular basis.
• Manages their own task list with minimal supervision.
• Bilingual/bicultural preferred.

Required Qualifications

• Graduate-level degree with a focus in Mental Health Services required (MSW, MHC, or related degree; professional license by NYSED preferred, but not required)
• CASAC certification preferred
• 1-2 years of experience with individuals diagnosed with serious mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders.

Physical Requirements

• This position requires robust physical activity, coordination and stamina.
• Comfort in commuting with public transportation, constant exposure to outdoor conditions.
• Comfortable meeting with consumers inside their homes.