Street-Based Substance Use Outreach Counselor

Community Human Services; Monterey (CA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 71,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bilingual bonus (5% extra)

Job summary

Community Human Services is seeking a field-based outreach counselor to engage homeless individuals with substance use disorders. You will provide street-based outreach, counseling, assessments, and referrals to treatment, housing, and supportive services, coordinating with Homeless Services teams to link clients to needed care.

The role requires trauma-informed, client-centered approaches, strong documentation, and the ability to work in varied field conditions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with 2+ years in outreach or related field; bachelor’s pref.
• Current registration or certification as an/addiction counselor or ability to obtain.
• Knowledge of addiction treatment, recovery supports, and community resources.
• Ability to work with diverse population including homeless individuals and families.
• Maintain boundaries and professional relationships in field settings.
• Work independently and in teams under supervision.
• Basic computer skills and data systems proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Conduct street-based outreach and informal counseling.
• Educate clients on substance use and harm reduction.
• Coordinate referrals to treatment, housing, and supportive services.
• Develop outreach plans aligned with program goals and contracts.
• Collaborate with Homeless Services teams across regions.
• Provide crisis intervention and timely referrals.
• Assist with transportation and client navigation.
• Maintain confidential documentation per HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
• Attend meetings and participate in program planning.
• Support staff training on SUD identification and referrals.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Counseling

Client relations

Documentation

Social work principles

Communication (oral)

Communication (written)

Transport coordination

HIPAA compliance

Self-management in field

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor’s degree in counseling/psychology/social work (preferred)

DHCS-certified alcohol and other drug counselor registration (or ability to obtain)

Tools

Avatar EMR

Homeless Management Information System

Coordinated Assessment and Referral System

Job description

Community Human Services is seeking a field-based outreach counselor to engage homeless individuals with substance use disorders. You will provide street-based outreach, counseling, assessments, and referrals to treatment, housing, and supportive services, coordinating with Homeless Services teams to link clients to needed care.

The role requires trauma-informed, client-centered approaches, strong documentation, and the ability to work in varied field conditions.