Counselor I

Champions Recovery; Lemoore (CA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Champions Recovery in California seeks a SUD Counselor I to deliver treatment and case management to adults, conduct intakes and ASAM screenings, and assign clients to programs. You will maintain a caseload and facilitate evidence-based groups.

Work within a multi-disciplinary team, document thoroughly in our EHR, coordinate with local providers, and develop discharge plans. A valid California driver’s license and bilingual English/Spanish are required, with supervision and ongoing professional

Qualifications

• Certified SUD counselor with DHCS-approved certification.
• Registered within 2 weeks of hire date and maintain registration.
• Bachelor's or Associate degree with relevant experience in SUD/mental health.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake interviews; administer ASAM screenings and assessments.
• Plans and conducts group counseling sessions; develops case management plans with clients.
• Maintains caseload and provides comprehensive case management, addressing mental health, SUD, social, and employment needs.
• Documents timely in EHR and billing systems to enable program billing for services.
• Coordinates services with Champions staff and external providers; participates in meetings and trainings.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Strong communication skills

Group facilitation / counseling

Education

BA in Social Work or Psychology

AA in Social Work or Psychology

SUD Counselor Certification (DHCS approved)

Tools

EHR systems

Billing systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Under the supervision and direction of the Program Manager, the SUD Counselor I (SUDC-I) will provide SUD treatment and case management to adults and facilitate psychoeducational and life skills groups. The SUDC-I will be responsible for maintaining a caseload of individual clients for case management services and facilitating evidence-based curriculum in a group setting. Caseload responsibilities include completing intakes, ASAM screenings and assessments, case management, and referrals. This SUDC-I will operate in a multi-disciplinary team and will work independently but consult on all cases with their supervisor.Conducts intake interviews; administer ASAM screenings and assessments; obtains background and financial information; assigns clients to specific programs or counselors; observes client progress.Plans and conducts group counseling sessions; assesses and develops case management plans collaboratively with clients.Maintains a caseload of clientele for case management and provide active and comprehensive case management services ensuring all area needs are attended to, including mental health, SUD, social, physical, family, financial, employment, etc.Ensures appropriate and comprehensive up-to-date documentation within an electronic health record (EHR) system.Works collaboratively with Champions staff and internal programs, referring parties, and local service providers.Participates in staff meetings, to address client needs, program issues, and assist in the integration of services for clientele.Provides case management to link clients to various resources and coordinate services with other providers.Develops and provide discharge planning sessions with clients as treatment comes to closureDetermines appropriate services available through Champions programs and/or referral to other community agencies.Conducts urinalysis and breath testing of clients, as needed.Serves as the main point of contact for all clients and relay client needs to the appropriate channels.Participates in applicable meetings, trainings, conferences, etc. as required both internally and externally.Completes timely logs of SUD treatment and case management services in EHRs and billing systems to enable the program to bill for SUD and CalAIM services.Provides coverage of facility monitor and respite worker responsibilities when needed.Serves as a primary backup for the Medical Respite Lead Care Manager III when needed.Remains culturally humble and respectful in all client and staff interactions.Adheres to all client confidentiality requirements and standards, including updates of the shared Release of Information (ROI) to ensure that information is current and accurate.Comfortable performing various projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities.Ability to get along with diverse personalities, understanding, mature, and flexible.Possess strong judgment, problem-solving and reasoning abilities.Performs other duties as assigned, including conduct drug testing at Champions Outpatient Office for the CJTC Program.Certified as a SUD counselor by one of the DHCS-approved certifying organizations (OR)Must be registered by one of the DHCS-approved SUD counselor(s) certifying organizations within 2 weeks of hire date and maintain their registration throughout their employment. Will receive formal supervision from an on-site qualified staff as recognized by the State of California. Preference will be given to registrants that have completed required education toward SUDC certification.BA in social work, psychology, or related field plus 1 years of experience serving individuals with justice-involvement, SUD, and/or mental illness; or AA in social work, psychology, or related field plus 2 years of relevant experience; and/or 3 years of relevant experience may be substituted.Priority will be given to applicants with 1-2 years of work experience in a counseling or treatment setting with clients struggling with substance use, mental health, and criminal justice system involvement. Note: Personal lived experience may contribute to these years of experience. Examples of work experience that may count include but are not limited to: working in an outpatient or residential drug treatment setting, working at a sober living environment, working in jails, working in other peer-to-peer recovery programs, working in a DUI program or other psychoeducational program.Must have valid California Class C Driver’s License; maintain a good safety record (verified by DMV at hire and periodically) and a reliable vehicle; proof of comprehensive auto insurance if driving personal vehicle. Must be able to drive (when needed) their own vehicle for business purposes to other program locations in Kings and Tulare County.Must be drug tested prior to hire, with drug test results negative for illegal drug use and marijuana.Must pass background check (Live Scan Fingerprint - MANDATORY).Must maintain a waiver to provide treatment services with the CDCR STOP Program during employment with Champions.Must have TB clearance within 60 days prior to hire (MANDATORY).First Aid and CPR certifications obtained within 30 days of employment and maintain current thereafter.Ability to understand and interpret information, follow instructions, and manage workflow.Must be Bilingual (fluent in speaking, reading, and writing in English and Spanish)Basic knowledge and skills with computer keyboarding and computer programs. Advanced office management practices and operating procedures.Able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, apply professional judgement in solving difficult issues, and to communicate in a clear, precise, and professional manner. Strong Interpersonal skills: ability to work effectively with people in a constructive manner within a community-based treatment setting.Must have flexibility to work weekend hours during scheduled client activities.Recovering individuals must have a minimum two years clean, sober, and abstinent to be considered for employment.Must be free of probation or parole supervision for a minimum of one year. If less than one year, must provide a letter of recommendation from probation or parole.