Registered​/Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

Overview

The Registered or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor will provide dynamic counseling services to minority and low-income women, including pregnant and postpartum women, alongside their children, within a residential drug treatment program. Upholding an exceptional standard of care in line with Substance Abuse and Prevention Control (SAPC) and Drug Medi-Cal (DMC) program guidelines, the Counselor champions the JWCH mission to elevate the health status and well-being of underserved communities in Los Angeles County.

Demonstrating proficiency in Medication Assisted Treatment knowledge and harm reduction strategies, the Counselor ensures vibrant and effective approaches to substance abuse treatment.

• Manage a caseload of up to 15 clients with professionalism and an upbeat attitude.
• Ensure compliance with all SAPC service and documentation requirements.
• Identify and address immediate barriers to treatment, including external factors hindering progress.
• Conduct weekly individual counseling sessions with each client, ensuring post-session scheduling.
• Develop and regularly update treatment plans (Problem List) for each client.
• Conduct weekly care coordination sessions with clients to support their treatment journey.
• Make referrals for medical, psychiatric, and dental needs as necessary.
• Implement daily retention strategies for caseload clients, utilizing positive clinical approaches.
• Demonstrate knowledge of harm reduction and medication-assisted treatment for the R95 population.
• Utilize appropriate clinical skills to engage and support challenging clients.
• Integrate mindfulness and meditation interventions into group and individual sessions.
• Provide trauma-responsive care across all aspects of treatment.
• Manage crisis situations with new admissions to ensure client retention.
• Collaborate with therapists to coordinate strategic responses to mental health crises.
• Facilitate weekly Substance Abuse Education, Relapse Prevention, and Seeking Safety groups, as well as other assigned groups.
• Introduce clients to the principles of 12 Step recovery.
• Ensure timely documentation of all provided services within 24 hours.
• Submit weekly productivity logs to the evaluator for review.
• Conduct ASAM assessments within 72 hours of client admission and coordinate with the therapist to finalize medical necessity notes for assigned clients.
• Participate in weekly Case Review meetings and client touch bases.
• Track client services and ensure compliance with program requirements.
• Collaborate with a diverse, multi-disciplinary team of professionals to enhance client care.
• Complete required training hours as assigned by SAPC and JWCH Med Trainer.
• Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate respect and compassion in all interactions.
• Initiate and present positive solutions to challenges as they arise.
• Foster effective teamwork to achieve organizational goals.
• Adapt to changing priorities and accommodate workplace requirements.
• Adhere to departmental guidelines regarding absences and breaks.
• Project a positive professional image and adhere to organizational dress code.
• Provide coverage for other groups and activities as needed.
• Discuss patient information only with appropriate program personnel in relation to care.
• Maintain confidentiality of all patient identifier information.
• Ensure cleanliness and organization in workstations and communal areas.
• Fulfill any additional duties as assigned.
• Adhere to all organizational safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
• Participate in required safety and compliance trainings and apply learned practices in daily work activities.
• Identify, report, and help mitigate unsafe conditions, incidents, or hazards in the workplace.
• Use equipment, tools, and supplies safely and responsibly in accordance with organizational and regulatory standards.
• Maintain awareness of infection control, occupational health, and emergency preparedness procedures appropriate to the role.

Tuesday – Saturday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

• Registered or Certified Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor:
  Certification from NCCA-accredited agencies like…