Substance Use Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Substance Use Counselor – Elite Healthcare
Full-Time and Part-Time Opportunities Available

Position Summary
Elite Healthcare is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Substance Use Counselor to provide high-quality care to individuals experiencing substance use disorders. Under general supervision, the counselor delivers comprehensive services including screening, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, and ongoing support. This role plays a key part in helping clients achieve and maintain recovery through evidence-based practices, while ensuring all documentation and services meet regulatory and ethical standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct screenings and assessments to determine client eligibility and level of care for substance use treatment. 
• Complete comprehensive biopsychosocial evaluations to inform individualized treatment planning. 
• Develop, implement, and update person-centered treatment plans based on client progress and clinical needs. 
• Facilitate Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) group sessions and provide individual counseling focused on recovery and relapse prevention. 
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including progress notes, group notes, treatment plans, and discharge summaries. 
• Document all services in the electronic health record (EHR) system in compliance with state, federal, and organizational requirements. 
• Coordinate care and referrals to community resources, including medical, psychiatric, and social support services. 
• Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and relapse prevention strategies as needed. 
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to support integrated, client-centered care. 
• Ensure compliance with confidentiality laws (HIPAA) and client rights regulations. 
• Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development to maintain and enhance credentials. 
• Complete all assigned responsibilities within required timeframes. 

Qualifications

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in substance use disorder or chemical dependency counseling. 
• Active Maryland certification in good standing as one of the following: ADT, CSC-AD, CAC-AD, or LCADC (required). 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of substance use disorders, including diagnostic criteria (DSM) and ASAM placement criteria. 
• Experience with evidence-based practices such as relapse prevention, motivational interviewing, and cognitive-behavioral interventions. 
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to substance use treatment. 
• Familiarity with community resources and recovery support systems. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including strong clinical documentation abilities. 
• Ability to build rapport and maintain professional, ethical relationships with diverse populations. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced clinical environment. 

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a clinical setting with frequent interaction with clients, staff, and the public. 
• Role may involve managing crisis situations and working with clients experiencing emotional or behavioral distress. 
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. 

Additional Information

• Performs other duties as assigned to support program operations and client care.