Outpatient Substance Use Counselor I

Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department; Tacoma (WA); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department seeks an entry-level Substance Use Disorder Professional I to provide counseling and case management in an outpatient clinic, handling a caseload and coordinating with clinical staff.

The position offers 4x10 hour days (5:00am–3:30pm) or 5x8 hour days, with a starting hourly wage of $29.23–$31.30 and a comprehensive benefits package. This is an on-site role with opportunities for growth through the SUDP series.

Qualifications

• Intermediate knowledge of standard Microsoft Office programs.
• Knowledge of ASAM assessment, intervention, and consultation principles and practices.
• Understanding of harm reduction practices and trauma informed and patient-centered care.
• Pharmacology knowledge for commonly used drugs and treatment modalities for drug addiction.
• Knowledge of community-based agencies and departmental programs involving health care and social services for client referral.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to substance use treatment programs.
• Informed on public health issues as they relate to specific social science disciplines.
• Knowledge of interviewing and assessment methods for a diverse patient population.
• Active listening skills.
• Data entry and analysis skills.
• Skilled in maintaining sensitive and confidential data and using discretion when sharing information.
• Knowledge of communication methods and ability to convey ideas clearly.

Responsibilities

• Manages a caseload of assigned patients, acts as primary counselor, and facilitates treatment and education groups.
• Gathers protected health information to build a comprehensive client file, collaborating with clinical and medical staff on goals and services.
• Assists in oversight of clinic waiting area to ensure a safe and clean environment.
• Documents patient information including session notes, progress notes, recommendations, and treatment plans.
• Coordinates patient care with other institutions and attends program and medical team staff meetings.

Skills

ASAM knowledge

Active listening

Microsoft Office

Communication

Data entry and analysis

Harm reduction

Pharmacology knowledge

Regulatory knowledge

Public health

Assessment methods

Education

Associate Degree in Social and Human Services or related field

Clinical experience in addiction recovery/MAT preferred

Current State of Washington SUDP Certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department seeks an entry-level Substance Use Disorder Professional I to provide counseling and case management in an outpatient clinic, handling a caseload and coordinating with clinical staff.

The position offers 4x10 hour days (5:00am–3:30pm) or 5x8 hour days, with a starting hourly wage of $29.23–$31.30 and a comprehensive benefits package. This is an on-site role with opportunities for growth through the SUDP series.