Assessment Counselor

Access Assessment Counselor

Under the direction and supervision of the AVP of Admissions, the Access Assessment Counselor provides the development and management of coordinated assessment, outreach and counseling services to ensure optimum care is provided to new admissions and existing clients while assisting with the administration of the Open Access Center/CCBHC.

Responsible for initial screening and biopsychosocial assessment of all new clients that present to the Access Center.

Utilization of screening tools to assess for the lowest level of clinical care; along with wrap around services.

Counsel clients on the various levels of clinical care and encourage participation to improve all life areas.

Work collaboratively with Intake Department to ensure continuity of care for all new admissions.

Work collaboratively with support staff to schedule and ensure completion of medical assessments and psychiatric evaluation appointments.

Screen incoming referral packets for program appropriateness.

Contact referents via email/phone to confirm referral packet was received.

Maintain documented record of all clinical assessment sessions.

Maintain monthly statistical reports to measure utilization review for all OASAS and OMH licensed programs.

Assist in agency outreach efforts to recruit new clientele.

Conduct presentations promoting VIP's services.

Participate in comprehensive interdisciplinary team treatment planning and activities as needed.

Collaborate with other disciplines in the field to screen and escort clients to the VIP treatment facilities.

Attend and present at health fairs, promotion events, community meetings, and all other participatory requirements.

Monitor the collection of urine specimens and toxicology results.

Manage telephone inquiries and provide program information, including information on alternative providers.

Maintain up to date database of referral information and resources.

Refer applicants to alternative services (e.g. Detoxification Units, Rehab Programs, etc.) as needed.

Pick up and transport clients and records to and from intra/outer agency facilities as needed.

Execute intra/outer agency warm handoffs to support consumers and ensure integrative care.

Interact with community members in a way which supports cooperation among agencies, recovery and wellness.

Provide support for persons with substance use/mental health diagnosis to engage positively and effectively advocate for resources beneficial to the client's recovery.

Conduct regular chart audits to ensure that client records are meeting all documentation requirements and that quality care is being delivered.

Perform all required documentation and data entry for assigned clients.

Maintain good working relationships with all staff, clients and visitors.

Perform all other duties as assigned by AVP.

Compiles and generates reports, letters and documents:

Collect, maintains and prepares statistical data and reports that contribute to the operation and management of the department.

Develops evaluations for staff to be reviewed by the Director.

Attends meetings and seminars as assigned:

Attends meetings as assigned.

Attends training as required or mandated.

Salary range is dependent on credentials and professional experience:

CASAC-T Counselor: $47,500- $53,000/yr

CASAC Counselor: $53,000-$60,000/yr

Requirements:

Job competency:

Associates degree in behavioral health or social sciences and two (2) to three (3) years related experience.

Excellent organization skills.

Computer literate.

Experience. CASAC, CASAC-T, LMSW, LMHC; must be a qualified health professional.

Mandated reporter.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to speak, read and write the English language, Spanish a plus.

Job requirements/settings:

Must possess sight and digital senses or prosthetics that will enable the essential functions of the job to be completed.

Note: This description reflects management's assignment of the essential functions. It does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Tasks are subject to change at any time due to any reasonable but necessary conditions.