Substance Use Disorder Counselor

UCS Healthcare; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

UCS Healthcare in West Des Moines, IA seeks a Substance Use Disorder Counselor for comprehensive counseling and support of individuals with substance use disorders. The role covers intake assessment, transition planning, personalized treatment planning, and individual and group therapy sessions.

The counselor will maintain HIPAA-compliant records, coordinate with health professionals, and participate in continuing education to maintain licensure.

Qualifications

• Associate degree is required.
• Temporary CADC or CADC with Iowa Board of Certification is required.
• Full CADC within one year of hire is required.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a team environment and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessment, admission, and transition planning.
• Provide individual and group counseling using evidence-based therapeutic techniques.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans and adjust them as needed.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions to foster peer support and education.
• Maintain client caseload, documentation, and timely treatment records per HIPAA and regulations.
• Coordinate counseling with mental health professionals and other health providers.
• Collaborate with outside agencies, courts, probation officers, and community services.
• Attend staff meetings, supervision, and training workshops.
• Participate in continuing education to maintain licensure.
• Provide crisis line coverage and interpret referral paperwork to determine appropriate level of care.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Team oriented

Problem solving

Confidentiality

Education

Associate degree

CADC eligibility

Bachelor’s/Master’s preferred

Job description

Substance Use Disorder Counselor – West Des Moines, Iowa

Job Summary: Provides comprehensive counseling and support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders, including initial assessment, admission, transition planning, personalized treatment planning, and individual and group therapy sessions. The counselor supports clients in achieving recovery goals through education, guidance, and evidence‑based practices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessment, admission, and transition planning.
• Provide individual and group counseling using evidence‑based therapeutic techniques.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans and adjust them as needed.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions to foster peer support and education.
• Maintain client caseload, documentation, and timely treatment records in compliance with HIPAA and other regulations.
• Coordinate counseling with mental health professionals and other health providers.
• Collaborate with outside agencies, courts, probation officers, and community services.
• Attend staff meetings, supervision sessions, and training workshops.
• Participate in continuing education and professional development to maintain licensure.
• Provide crisis line coverage and interpret referral paperwork to determine appropriate level of care.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree.
• Temporary Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (tCADC) or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with Iowa Board of Certification.
• Full CADC required within one year of hire.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, adhere to agency policies, and exercise critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work with diverse populations and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
• Previous experience in substance use disorder counseling and group facilitation.
• Demonstrated understanding of substance use disorders and familiarity with counseling theories.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods.
• Ability to use a computer and other office equipment.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal transportation for occasional travel within Iowa.

Work Hours

Full‑time; 40 hours per week with up to two evenings or regular Saturday availability required.

Reporting To

Clinical Supervisor.