Primary Therapist

Caron Treatment Centers; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in mental health treatment is seeking a dedicated Primary Therapist to join their team in Arlington. This full-time position emphasizes a supportive environment and professional growth, focusing on trauma-informed care for clients dealing with substance use and mental health disorders. The therapist will conduct group and individual therapy, perform assessments, and coordinate patient care, all while adhering to ethical standards. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while working within a collaborative and holistic outpatient program.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in counseling or related field required.
• Virginia licensure or pre-licensed status necessary.

Responsibilities

• Conduct group therapy and individual counseling for clients.
• Perform assessments to determine treatment eligibility.
• Document clinical activities accurately and timely.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Knowledge of substance abuse

Professionalism and ethical conduct

Computer literacy (Microsoft Office)

Empathy and objectivity

Education

Master’s degree in counseling or related field

Virginia licensure (LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Encore Outpatient Services is seeking a dedicated Primary Therapist to join our team in Arlington, Virginia, serving the Greater Washington, D.C. area and Northern Virginia. We specialize in treating substance use and mental health disorders, focusing on trauma, addiction interaction disorders, and process addictions. Our comprehensive outpatient program includes holistic therapies, family education, medication management, and community integration, all from a trauma-informed perspective.

We offer a supportive environment emphasizing professional growth, competitive benefits, and a culture of well-being and connection.

Position Details: Full-time (32 hours), working Monday-Thursday, 1-9pm at our Arlington office.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct group therapy and individual counseling to help clients meet treatment goals.
2. Perform assessment activities, including level of care evaluation and biopsychosocial interviews, to determine treatment eligibility and develop diagnostic summaries.
3. Lead family sessions, assess family dynamics, and recommend ongoing family therapy as needed.
4. Coordinate patient care, including communication with referral sources and progress assessments.
5. Plan and assess aftercare needs, set goals, and coordinate follow-up referrals.
6. Oversee collection of urine drug screens and breathalyzer tests, relaying results to patients.
7. Document all clinical activities accurately and timely, including treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries.
8. Participate in training programs, community speaking engagements, and organizational committees; assist in staff training and provide treatment consultations.
9. Adhere to ethical standards and organizational policies in all clinical activities.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work extended hours and deliver presentations.
• Lift up to 20 lbs and climb stairs.
• This is a safety-sensitive role.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in counseling or a related field.
• Virginia licensure (LCSW, LMFT, LPC, PsyD) or pre-licensed status.
• Experience with group therapy and addiction recovery preferred.
• Knowledge of trauma and PTSD treatment; recovery experience is a plus.
• Two years of sobriety if in recovery is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of substance abuse, trauma, and dual diagnosis.
• Professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
• Computer literacy with Microsoft Office and clinical documentation skills.
• Empathy, objectivity, and capacity for professional growth.

Encore is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants will be informed of their rights under federal employment laws, including the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.