Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) - SAIOP ASAM Level 2.1

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) is responsible for providing substance use disorder counseling, treatment interventions, psychoeducation, and recovery support services to individuals enrolled in Richmond Therapeutic Health Services' Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (SAIOP), ASAM Level 2.1.

The CSAC works collaboratively with the Clinical Director, licensed clinical professionals, and interdisciplinary treatment team to deliver individualized, evidence-based services that promote recovery, relapse prevention, improved functioning, and long-term stability.

All services must be delivered within the CSAC's authorized scope of practice and in accordance with applicable Virginia Department of Health Professions (DHP), Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS), Medicaid managed care organization (MCO), and RTHS requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Direct Clinical Services

• Facilitate structured substance use disorder counseling groups and individual counseling sessions within the CSAC's authorized scope.
• Provide interventions addressing substance use, cravings, relapse triggers, coping skills, emotional regulation, and recovery planning.
• Utilize evidence-informed approaches, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral strategies, relapse prevention, and psychoeducation.
• Monitor client participation, treatment engagement, and progress toward individualized treatment goals.
• Recognize and promptly report clinical deterioration, withdrawal concerns, psychiatric instability, and safety risks to the appropriate licensed clinician.

2. Treatment Planning and Coordination

• Participate in the development, implementation, and review of individualized service plans under appropriate clinical oversight.
• Assist clients in identifying recovery goals, treatment barriers, and community support resources.
• Collaborate with licensed clinicians regarding continued treatment needs, appropriate levels of care, and discharge planning.
• Coordinate referrals for psychiatric care, medication-assisted treatment, peer recovery services, and other community resources as appropriate.
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings and case consultations.

3. Clinical Documentation

• Complete accurate, individualized, and timely progress notes for services provided.
• Document interventions, client responses, progress toward treatment goals, and plans for continued care.
• Maintain attendance records, treatment participation documentation, and other required clinical records.
• Ensure documentation supports the medical necessity and actual delivery of billed services.
• Complete documentation within RTHS-established deadlines and participate in chart audits and corrective action activities.
• Assist with service authorization documentation as assigned, subject to appropriate clinical review and approval.

4. Compliance and Professional Standards

• Adhere to applicable DBHDS licensing requirements, DMAS regulations, Virginia Medicaid provider manuals, MCO requirements, and CARF accreditation standards.
• Maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and applicable federal substance use disorder confidentiality requirements, including 42 CFR Part 2.
• Practice within the authorized scope of CSAC certification and applicable supervision requirements.
• Participate in required supervision, training, competency assessments, and quality improvement activities.
• Report suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, safety incidents, and other reportable events in accordance with applicable law and RTHS policies.

5. Client Engagement and Recovery Support

• Encourage consistent attendance and active participation in SAIOP services.
• Provide education on substance use disorders, recovery maintenance, relapse warning signs, and available community resources.
• Promote client self-determination, dignity, cultural responsiveness, and person-centered care.
• Assist clients in developing practical strategies to maintain recovery and improve daily functioning.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current Virginia certification as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) through the Virginia Board of Counseling.
• Education, training, and supervised experience meeting applicable Virginia CSAC requirements.
• Knowledge of substance use disorders, ASAM treatment principles, group counseling, and recovery-oriented services.
• Ability to maintain accurate clinical documentation and communicate effectively with clients and treatment team members.
• Ability to satisfy applicable background screening and employment requirements.
• Experience providing substance use disorder treatment in an intensive outpatient or comparable behavioral health setting preferred.

Supervision and Clinical Oversight

The CSAC shall work under the supervision and clinical oversight required by Virginia law, applicable licensing and Medicaid standards, and RTHS policies.

Clinical assessments, diagnostic determinations, medical necessity decisions, treatment plan approvals, and other functions requiring a licensed professional shall be completed or approved by appropriately qualified personnel.

The CSAC shall not independently perform functions outside the authorized scope of certification.

Performance Expectations

• Deliver assigned SAIOP services consistently and professionally.
• Maintain timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation.
• Demonstrate effective client engagement and professional communication.
• Participate in clinical supervision and required staff meetings.
• Maintain professional boundaries and ethical conduct.
• Support RTHS quality assurance, CARF compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

As a CARF-accredited behavioral health organization, RTHS is dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered mental health and substance use disorder services.

Company Description

As a CARF-accredited behavioral health organization, RTHS is dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered mental health and substance use disorder services.