Primary Therapist

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Primary Therapist to join our clinical team at a premier luxury drug and alcohol treatment center in Malibu. The ideal candidate will provide individualized and group therapy to clients struggling with substance use disorders, chronic pain, co-occurring mental health conditions, and trauma-related challenges. This role requires a compassionate, skilled clinician who is committed to evidence-based care and a holistic approach to recovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs.
• Provide individual therapy sessions, utilizing modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness-Based Interventions.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions focused on relapse prevention, trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and other clinically relevant topics.
• Coordinate and collaborate with psychiatrists, medical staff, case managers, and family therapists to ensure comprehensive client care.
• Maintain detailed and timely clinical documentation (progress notes, treatment plans, discharge summaries) in compliance with regulatory standards.
• Provide crisis intervention and support clients in developing coping strategies for emotional regulation and relapse prevention.
• Participate in weekly clinical team meetings, case consultations, and interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance client outcomes.
• Educate and support families through family therapy sessions and psychoeducational programming as needed.
• Stay up to date on best practices in addiction treatment and incorporate innovative therapeutic techniques into client care.
• Uphold ethical standards, confidentiality, and professional boundaries in accordance with state licensing requirements and facility policies.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Master’s or Doctorate in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.
• Licensed or license-eligible in California as an LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, or Psychologist (PhD/PsyD).
• Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in substance use disorder treatment, dual diagnosis, or behavioral health settings.
• Proficiency in evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care.
• Familiarity with polyvagal-informed approaches or a willingness to incorporate somatic and nervous system regulation techniques into therapy.
• Strong clinical assessment, case conceptualization, and treatment planning skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document clinical work professionally and timely.
• Experience working in residential or inpatient treatment settings preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced treatment environment.
• Passion for working with individuals in recovery and dedication to providing compassionate, client-centered care.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary (commensurate with experience)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
• Continuing education opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative work environment in a luxury treatment setting