Substance Use Counselor

Career Opportunities: Substance Use Counselor (34472) Requisition ID 34472 -Posted 10/19/2026 - COMM - Chicago - IL Alpharus Health is a national nonprofit behavioral health provider dedicated to helping people build healthier lives. For nearly 60 years, we have provided substance use and mental health treatment that helps individuals, families, and communities find healing, hope, and lasting wellbeing. Our mission is simple: We help people build healthier lives. By combining clinical expertise with a person-centered approach, we help people build the skills, resilience, and support systems needed to create meaningful, lasting change. Consider joining our team, where your impact can be truly meaningful. Our organization focuses on delivering high quality clinical services as a recognized leader in evidence-based treatment proven to get results. By joining our team, you'll be working for an organization that values you and aims to be an employer of choice. You can expect to be part of a vibrant culture that emphasizes teamwork and professional growth. When you join us, you have the opportunity to find both personal and professional fulfillment by aligning your career with your values. Location: 3828 W. Taylor Chicago, IL 60624 Work Schedule : Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30am - 7:00pm. Saturday shift is 9:00am-5:00pm. Shift schedule may be adjusted based on operational needs Residential Substance Abuse Counselors are responsible for: Participate in patient intake sessions and admission procedures Conduct patient searches upon arrival Assist patients with washing and drying clothing during intake Consent forms Authorization to release information Emergency contact information Gather and document substance use disorder (SUD) history Conduct diagnostic assessments to determine clinical diagnosis and appropriate level of care Perform safety screenings, including assessments for suicidal ideation Obtaining insurance coverage for incoming patients Contacting insurance representatives to coordinate initial approved days of treatment Assist in managing the detox unit environment and ensure timely development of individualized treatment plans within 24 hours of intake Administer drug screenings and blood alcohol content (BAC) tests Respond to incoming calls from the call center and answer center Schedule patients for the admission process based on availability and clinical criteria Job Requirements: High school diploma or equivalency required Minimum 6 months of previous experience in substance abuse or mental health counseling required Related work experience with a program specific population (adolescent/adult) in a residential treatment setting required Physical Requirements: Ability to walk and move about the facilities for up to two hours at a time, to monitor and interact with clients. Ability to speak with others in order to exchange information and provide counseling. Ability to record, proofread and check documents and files for accuracy on a regular basis. Ability to use a keyboard and video display terminal to receive, retrieve, and/or audit information and data on a regular basis. Ability to respond to telephones, and to hear and detect alarms and unusual noises. Ability to drive an automobile or van; remain alert to traffic conditions, and to identify and comply with traffic signals and signs Compensation: Range is between $19.23 - $24.47 per hour Starting rates are determined based on years of experience, qualifications, and relevant skills. Alpharus Health conducts annual performance reviews, with merit increase eligbility determined by employee performance and organizational financial performance. Benefits at Alpharus: Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums Employee assistance programs focused on mental health Financial Wellbeing: 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Alpharus Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Flexibility and Time Off: 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service 9 paid company holidays Work-life-balance Personal Development: Training & Development Programs Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance Alpharus Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here . #J-18808-Ljbffr Alpharus Health