Substance Use Counselor

Core Responsibilities

• Conduct substance use and mental health assessments using ASAM Criteria and IM-CANS.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings and client goals.
• Provide ASAM Level 1 (Outpatient) and Level 2 (Intensive Outpatient) services, including individual and group counseling.
• Utilize Motivational Interviewing (MI) and other evidence-based practices to engage and support clients.
• Incorporate harm reduction strategies and support Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) as part of treatment.
• Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic groups focused on recovery, relapse prevention, and coping skills.
• Collaborate with internal and external providers to coordinate care and ensure continuity of services.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with agency, state, and federal standards.
• Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing professional development.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge

• ASAM Criteria and levels of care for substance use treatment.
• Principles of harm reduction, recovery-oriented care, and integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders.
• Evidence-based counseling approaches, including Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
• Medication-Assisted Recovery (MAR) and its role in substance use treatment.
• State and federal regulations related to behavioral health and substance use services.

Skills

• Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills using ASAM and IM-CANS tools.
• Ability to engage clients in a nonjudgmental, culturally competent manner.
• Proficient in facilitating individual and group counseling sessions.
• Effective communication and collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills using electronic health records.

Abilities

• Build therapeutic relationships that foster trust and recovery.
• Adapt interventions to meet diverse client needs and stages of change.
• Manage crisis situations calmly and effectively.
• Maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards.
• Commit to ongoing learning and application of best practices in substance use treatment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in human service field + ability to obtain certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) within two years of employment
• Graduate degree in counseling, clinical psychology, social work, or other human service fields + ability to obtain certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), LPC, or LSW, within two years of employment
• Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), LPC, or LSW required within 24 months of employment
• Minimum of 21 years of age
• A valid driver’s license, reliable means of transportation, and proof of automobile insurance.

Heritage also offers the following with this position

• Generous
• Time
• Off: Vacation, sick, personal, and holiday leave
• Wellness
• Benefits: Every other Friday off paid, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and fitness reimbursement
• Insurance: Health, dental, vision, flex spending accounts (healthcare, dependent care), and additional life insurance. Health insurance includes substantial agency contributions toward the cost.
• Retirement: 401k and Roth
• Professional
• Growth: Tuition assistance and continuing education opportunities
• Loan
• Forgiveness: Eligible through the National Health Service Corp

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and join a team that cares about your well-being as much as the individuals we serve!

Hospice Social Worker / LCSW / PRN