Counselor I- Master's Level

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC; Hawthorne (CA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC in Hawthorne, CA is seeking a Counselor I – Master’s Level to provide treatment and recovery services, assessment, and care planning for clients in a team setting. You will use evidence-based methods (CBT, MI, DBT, Seeking Safety), document progress, and coordinate with medical providers and community resources to support relapse prevention and aftercare.

This role requires counseling certification and 1–2 years of experience, with strong interpersonal skills and a

Qualifications

• Counseling certification is required.
• 1–2 years of counseling or mental health experience.
• Experience with diverse populations preferred.
• Knowledge of ethical and legal standards in counseling.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Provide evidence-based counseling services to clients.
• Monitor client progress and document progress notes.
• Coordinate with medical providers and community services.
• Respond to behavioral crises and emergencies within scope.
• Attend supervision and treatment team meetings.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Crisis intervention

Documentation

Team collaboration

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Counseling certification

Tools

Electronic health records

Job description

Statement of PurposeUnder the direct supervision of the Program Director/Supervisor, the Counselor I – Master's Level provides treatment and recovery services to participating clients, monitors, documents, and supports client treatment progress, maintains ethical and evidence-based care, and participates in treatment team activities.Major Tasks, Duties and ResponsibilitiesConduct comprehensive substance use screening, assessment, care planning, and treatment activities, inclusive of co-occurring disordersDevelop individualized care plans in collaboration with clients and treatment teamProvide evidence-based services (e.g., CBT, MI, DBT, Seeking Safety) to assigned group and/or individual caseloadSupport clients with relapse prevention, life and coping skills, discharge and aftercare planning, and recovery supportCoordinate with medical providers, social services, and other community resourcesMonitor client progress and maintain accurate and timely treatment records and progress notes (e.g., daily activities, service entries, intake and discharge documentation, etc.)Perform toxicology testing, take and record vitals as needed, chart relevant informationFor Counselors assigned to residential programs, make rounds every 30 minutes for 72 hours on withdrawal management clients, document and record withdrawal symptoms.For Counselors assigned to residential programs, observe and document client self- administration of medications.Ensure compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards, including but not limited to DMH, DHCS, SAPC, HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, CARF, etc.Assist clients with benefits, housing, vocational, and community reintegration needsRespond to behavioral crises, medical emergencies, suicidal ideation, overdose including administration of anti-overdose medications as needed, or acute intoxication safely, within scope of practiceOccasionally provide transportation for clients including DPSS appointments and other linkages.Report and record any changes observed in client condition or behavior, including unusual incidents. Identify, report, and assist with the management of emergencies.Participate in safety programming to promote client and staff safety. Maintain health and safety standards of facility.Attend supervision, clinical meetings, and continuing education to maintain credentials.Participate in treatment team meetings, case conferences, and program planning.Contribute to agency quality assurance and improvement initiatives.Maintain professional boundaries and standards. Treat clients with respect, care, and concern. Comply with confidentiality requirements at all times.Maintain familiarity with BHS policies and procedures and other applicable regulations; perform job duties accordingly. Represent BHS well in all contacts.Courteously answer phones, appropriately directing calls and taking messages. Facilitate client external communication as approved by supervisor.Attend meetings and trainings, and participate in committees as assigned.Other duties as assigned.Counselor I – Master's Level Competencies and Performance Expectations:Ability to complete the above major tasks, duties, and responsibilities.Ability to demonstrate professional judgment and decision-making, including the ability to recognize and seek out supervision and/or consultation when required.Ability to demonstrate familiarity with and practice of 12 core competencies for SUD counselors.Ability to demonstrate and apply knowledge of evidence-based practices, medications for addiction treatment, community resources, self-help support, and treatment philosophies, and advanced knowledge of co-occurring disorders.Ability to effectively document within the required note structures (e.g., SOAP, GIRP, etc.)Ability to recognize the symptoms and develop knowledge of appropriate treatment associated with substance use and co-occurring disorders (i.e., mental health, medical health, etc.)Ability to identify and respond appropriately to a crisis within scope of practice including but not limited to overdose, behavioral challenges, contraband protocol, emergency codes, etc.Ability to screen and/or assess for acute intoxication and withdrawal symptoms within scope of practice.Ability to meet productivity standards as assigned.Ability to recognize personal biases within diverse populations. Maintain cultural sensitivity at all times.Ability to adhere to professional standards.Required Education:Counseling certification.Required Experience:Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a counseling or mental health setting.Experience working with diverse populations and understanding of cultural sensitivities.Familiarity with behavioral health services and therapeutic practices.Required Skills and Abilities:Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.Ability to conduct assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.Proficient in crisis intervention and conflict resolution.Knowledge of ethical and legal standards in counseling practice.Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.Proficiency in using electronic health records and other relevant software applications.