Intake Therapist

The Intake Counselor is responsible for completing the clinical intake and assessment process for individuals seeking admission into the program. This position conducts screenings, assessments, and evaluations to determine appropriate placement and level of care. The Intake Counselor may conduct initial telephone screenings with prospective clients, family members, and referral sources, as well as complete in-person clinical evaluations. The role requires the ability to assess individuals presenting with substance use disorders, mental health concerns, and co-occurring conditions and collaborate with the multidisciplinary treatment team to make appropriate recommendations for admission, placement, and level of care. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Conduct initial telephone and in-person screenings for prospective clients. Complete intake assessments, clinical evaluations, and other required admission documentation. Assess presenting substance use, behavioral health, and co-occurring needs. Evaluate client needs and assist in determining the appropriate level of care and program placement. Identify potential safety concerns, medical needs, or behavioral health concerns requiring additional evaluation or intervention. Collaborate with clinical, medical, admissions, and other members of the multidisciplinary treatment team. Communicate professionally with prospective clients, families, referral sources, and other stakeholders throughout the intake process. Maintain accurate, timely, and complete documentation in accordance with organizational policies and applicable regulatory requirements. Maintain client confidentiality and comply with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and other applicable confidentiality requirements. Support client rights, dignity, privacy, and appropriate professional boundaries. Recognize potential medical or behavioral health emergencies and follow established emergency procedures. Maintain knowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, recovery principles, and available levels of care. Participate in required meetings, trainings, and professional development activities. Perform other duties related to the intake, admissions, and clinical functions of the program as assigned. Education Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited college or university required. Degree in counseling, psychology, social work, behavioral health, human services, or a related field preferred. Experience Knowledge of substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health treatment required. Previous experience conducting screenings, assessments, intake evaluations, or working within a behavioral health or substance use treatment setting preferred. Experience working as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team preferred. Licensure/Certification Professional clinical licensure is not required unless otherwise required by applicable state regulations or the specific duties assigned to the position. CPR and First Aid certification may be required based on facility requirements. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of substance use disorders, addiction, recovery, and co-occurring mental health conditions. Understanding of the physical, emotional, behavioral, social, and family impacts of alcohol and other substance use. Familiarity with recovery-oriented treatment approaches, including 12-Step principles. Strong assessment, interviewing, communication, and documentation skills. Ability to recognize potential medical or behavioral health emergencies and follow appropriate procedures. Knowledge of confidentiality, patient rights, and professional boundaries. #J-18808-Ljbffr