Substance Use Counselor-Outpatient Therapist

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center; Iola (KS); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center in Chanute, KS is seeking a Substance Use Counselor-Outpatient Therapist. This in-office role covers Iola, Chanute, and Yates Center and offers a salary of $77,440 annually.

Requires a Master’s or Doctoral degree in a related field and licensure through the Kansas BSRB. Strong collaboration with a multidisciplinary team is essential for coordinated, evidence-based care.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Social Work, Counseling, MFT, Psychology, or related field.
• Must be licensable in Kansas through the Behavioral Science Regulatory Board as LAC, LCAC, or LMAC.
• Background checks and motor vehicle and abuse checks required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans with patients toward recovery goals.
• Provide therapy using evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches.
• Document services in the electronic health record per requirements.
• Collaborate with psychiatrists, case managers, nurses, and peers for coordinated care.
• Conduct crisis assessments, safety planning, and referrals to higher care as needed.
• Participate in case consultations, supervision, and continuing education.
• Engage in psychoeducation, skill-building, and supportive services for empowerment.
• Advocate for access to community resources and social determinants of health.

Skills

Strong communication

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Independent work

Computer literacy

Education

Master’s or Doctoral degree in Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology, or related field

Tools

Electronic Health Records (EHR)

Job description

Substance Use Counselor-Outpatient Therapist

Full Time Chanute, Chanute, KS, US

Salary: $77,440.00 Annually

This is 1 in-office position covering Iola, Chanute, & Yates Center.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Master’s or Doctoral degree in Social Work, Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology, or related field. Must be licensable in Kansas through the Kansas BSRB (Behavioral Science Regulatory Board) as an LAC, LCAC, or LMAC. Must pass KBI, DCF child & adult abuse check, motor vehicle screen, and background checks. If the position requires the use of a personal vehicle for work purposes, the employee must have reliable, insured transportation that is properly registered and compliant with all applicable state and local requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to work independently in the community.
• Proficient with computers and word processing.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

THERAPIST:

• Conduct thorough clinical assessments and diagnostic evaluations.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans in partnership with patients, focusing on achievable recovery goals.
• Provide therapy utilizing evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches.
• Document all clinical services accurately and adequately in the electronic health record (EHR) in accordance with agency, state, and federal requirements.
• Collaborate with psychiatrists, case managers, nurses, peer specialists, and community providers to coordinate comprehensive care.
• Conduct crisis assessments and interventions, including risk assessments, safety planning, and referrals to higher levels of care as needed.
• Participate in regular case consultations, team meetings, supervision, and continuing education to maintain best clinical practices.
• Engage patients in psychoeducation, skill-building, and support that foster empowerment and long-term stability.
• Advocate for patient access to community resources, support services, and social determinants of health.
• Act in accordance with Center and professional ethical principles and guidelines; relevant State and Federal Statutes and Regulations, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

SUBSTANCE USE COUNSELOR:

• Conduct comprehensive substance use assessments, screenings, and biopsychosocial evaluations.
• Conduct individualized treatment plans addressing substance use and co-occurring mental health needs.
• Facilitate recovery skills groups and support groups.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans based on clinical need.
• Respond to patient crises using de-escalation techniques and safety protocols.
• Provide support in developing crisis prevention plans and relapse prevention strategies.
• Coordinate access to emergency or higher-level care when necessary.
• Collaborate with medical providers, case managers, and peer support specialists to provide integrated care.
• Maintain communication with external partners such as probation departments, social services, or community agencies when appropriate.
• Provide education on substance use and recovery.

DIRECT SERVICE EXPECTATIONS:This position has a minimum service credit expectation and will be provided by your supervisor.

TRANSPORTATION AND DELIVERY:For work-related travel, employees must operate company or personal vehicles responsibly, in accordance with all traffic laws, regulations, and organizational safety policies.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Regular and punctual attendance is required and is an essential function of this position.
• This position requires the ability to operate a vehicle as part of routine job functions.
• This position requires the ability to use a computer and software as part of routine job functions.
• Employees are expected to perform duties at the designated work location stated in the offer letter unless otherwise noted by your supervisor.
• Attendance at in-person meetings and training sessions is required, even for remote or hybrid roles, as necessary, unless otherwise noted by your supervisor.
• This is a salaried, exempt position. The typical work schedule may fluctuate and may exceed 40 hours per week based on operational needs. Flexibility is expected to meet the role's responsibilities. Overtime will be compensated in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws.
• This position requires the ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs as part of routine job functions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor or the Executive Director.

EMPLOYMENT STATUS:Exempt

SCHEDULE:Full-Time or Part-Time

SALARY:Per Pay Schedule

SUPERVISED AND EVALUATED BY:Director of Clinical Services