Counselor

Buffalo Plains Recovery; Rapid City (SD); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Buffalo Plains Recovery in Rapid City, SD seeks a full-time Counselor to provide individual and group therapy, assessments, and treatment planning for clients in recovery. The role emphasizes ethical practice, confidentiality, and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to support lasting wellness.

The ideal candidate has strong counseling skills, experience with assessment and planning, and licensure or eligibility to obtain SD credentials.

Qualifications

• Strong individual and group counseling skills with active listening and motivational interviewing.
• Experience with assessment and treatment planning, including substance use evaluations.
• Excellent case management and coordination with medical and community providers.
• Proficient documentation and maintaining accurate clinical records.
• Knowledge of evidence-based addiction treatment and relapse prevention.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to engage diverse clients and families.
• Licensure or eligibility to obtain SD credentials (LAC/LPC/LCSW or equivalent).
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field.
• Strong boundaries, confidentiality, and ethics in practice.
• Experience in residential or intensive outpatient settings preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions.
• Complete assessments and develop person-centered treatment plans.
• Monitor client progress and document clinical notes.
• Coordinate care with multidisciplinary team members.
• Provide crisis intervention when needed.
• Deliver psychoeducation on addiction and recovery.
• Engage families or support systems as appropriate.
• Participate in case reviews and uphold ethical standards.

Skills

Counseling skills

Active listening

Motivational interviewing

Trauma-informed approaches

Assessment & treatment planning

Case management

Documentation

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Evidence-based practices

Communication with diverse clients

Licensure eligibility (SD)

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field

Job description

Company Description

Buffalo Plains Recovery is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for individuals working to overcome drug and alcohol addiction. Rooted in the resilience and spirit of the Black Hills region, the organization focuses on helping clients reclaim their lives and restore their physical, emotional, and mental health. Care plans are tailored to support long-term recovery, emphasizing dignity, respect, and personal empowerment. Team members collaborate to create a supportive environment where clients can build sustainable skills and connections for lasting wellness.

Role Description

The Counselor is a full-time, on-site role based in Rapid City, SD. This position involves conducting individual and group counseling sessions, completing assessments, and developing person-centered treatment plans for clients in recovery. The Counselor will monitor progress, document clinical notes in accordance with regulatory and organizational standards, and coordinate care with multidisciplinary team members. Day-to-day responsibilities include providing crisis intervention when needed, delivering psychoeducation on addiction and recovery, and engaging families or support systems as appropriate. The role also includes participation in case reviews, adherence to ethical and confidentiality guidelines, and ongoing professional development to maintain best practices in addiction counseling.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated skills in individual and group counseling, including active listening, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Experience with assessment and treatment planning, including substance use evaluations, goal setting, and progress monitoring.
• Strong case management and coordination skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with medical, psychiatric, and community support providers.
• Proficient documentation and organizational skills, including maintaining accurate clinical records and managing caseloads efficiently.
• Knowledge of evidence-based practices in addiction treatment, relapse prevention strategies, and recovery support services.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with diverse clients and families.
• Relevant licensure or certification (e.g., LAC, LPC, LCSW, or equivalent) or eligibility to obtain appropriate credentials in South Dakota.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related behavioral health field.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries, uphold confidentiality, and follow ethical and legal standards of practice.
• Previous experience in substance use treatment or behavioral health settings is strongly preferred; experience in residential or intensive outpatient programs are a plus.