Substance Abuse Counselor

Contra Costa County; California (MO); On-site; USD 60,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Contra Costa County Health Services Department seeks a Substance Abuse Counselor to support the Alcohol and Other Drugs Unit within the Behavioral Health Division. The role covers counseling for individuals, families and groups, crisis intervention, and community outreach to reduce substance abuse impacts.

A strong candidate will have a background in psychology, sociology or counseling, plus AOD certification and a valid CA driver license.

Qualifications

• Requires ability to provide individual and family counseling and education.
• Ability to communicate effectively with people experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression.
• Knowledge of current substance abuse counseling methods for individuals and groups.

Responsibilities

• Interview applicants to determine eligibility for program services.
• Conduct intake assessments to identify client problems and action plan.
• Provide substance abuse counseling to individuals, families and groups; conduct group education programs.
• Develop recovery plans and refer clients to appropriate service providers.
• Maintain client records and prepare required reports.

Skills

Counseling

Communication

Substance abuse methods

Education

30+ semester units in psychology/sociology/counseling

Job description

Position Overview

The Contra Costa County Health Services Department is offering a rewarding opportunity for qualified, compassionate, and dedicated Substance Abuse Counselors who are committed to helping those impacted by addiction. Substance Abuse Counselors work at the Alcohol and Other Drugs Unit within the Behavioral Health Division, which includes programs such as A3 Crisis Response, Forensic Mental Health, residential/outpatient services and detention facilities. The candidates selected will play a pivotal role in a variety of counseling and prevention activities targeted at individuals, groups, and families who are currently experiencing or are at high risk of problems related to substance abuse. As a Substance Abuse Counselor, you will have the opportunity to build upon a purpose-driven career, work in diverse programs, and have a direct and tangible impact on the community you serve.

We Are Looking For Someone Who Has

• The ability to provide counseling and related family counseling and education
• The ability to communicate effectively with people experiencing anxiety, stress and depression
• Knowledge of current substance abuse methods and techniques of individual and group counseling

Characteristics Of The Ideal Candidate

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Acknowledge and respect cultural and linguistic differences of the County's diverse population

Typical Tasks

• Interview applicants to determine appropriateness for program services
• Conduct intake assessments to determine client problems and appropriate course of action
• Orient clients on program requirements
• Provide substance abuse counseling to individuals, families and groups
• Conduct group education programs
• Provide crisis intervention and counseling
• Develop recovery plans and make referrals to appropriate service providers
• Represent the division to the community through outreach activities and educational programs
• Maintain client case records and do technical charting
• Participate in meetings, committees and training
• Plan, schedule and implement clients daily work, counseling and recreational activities
• Monitor client files
• Prepare reports for other agencies as required
• Monitor ongoing treatment
• Develop aftercare plans and provide client follow-up
• Provide and promote excellent customer service for all internal and external customers

Minimum Qualifications

License Required: Candidates must possess a valid California Motor Vehicle Operator's License. Out of State valid Motor Vehicle Operator's License will be accepted during the application process.

Certification Required: Candidates must possess and maintain throughout the duration of employment certification as an Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Counselor issued by a certifying agency approved by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).

Education: Successful completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter units from an accredited college or university which included at least 12 semester or 15 quarter units in psychology, sociology, counseling, or chemical dependency.

Experience: One (1) year of full-time experience, or its equivalent, counseling persons in a substance abuse program or one (1) year of experience as a Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee in Contra Costa County.

Substitution for Education: Additional qualifying experience of the type noted above may be substituted for the required completion of 30 semester or 45 quarter units of education on a year-for-year basis. No substitution is allowed for the required 12 semester or 15 quarter units of specialized coursework.

Other Requirements: A background investigation/fingerprint and/or physical exam may be required prior to the start of employment.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

It is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.