Substance Use Disorder Counselor (Y-Haven)

YMCA; Cleveland (OH); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, Vision

Paid vacation

Employee Assistance Plan

Tuition Assistance

Retirement plan

Job summary

YMCA of Greater Cleveland is seeking a Substance Use Disorder Counselor to provide clinical counseling within a structured residential program. You will lead groups, perform in-house case management, and document in EMR as part of an interdisciplinary team using evidence-based practices.

Active licensure and 1–3 years of SUD experience are preferred; CPR/First Aid must be obtained within 90 days of hire. This on-site role offers clear career growth and generous YMCA benefits.

Qualifications

• Active CDCA licensure (renewed) required for level I/II/III.
• 1–3 years of experience with substance use disorders.
• Ability to facilitate residential and outpatient treatment groups.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification within 90 days of hire.
• No sanctions or exclusions from OIG or Medicaid.
• Commitment to YMCA mission.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual substance use disorder counseling.
• Facilitate residential, outpatient, and intensive outpatient treatment groups.
• Deliver trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions.
• Provide comprehensive in-house case management (no community transport).
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation in electronic medical records.
• Collaborate in treatment planning, team meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Execute advanced responsibilities like diagnostic assessments, mentoring, and supervision support (Level III).

Skills

Documentation skills

Communication skills

Group facilitation

Clinical counseling

Residential/outpatient facilitation

CPR/First Aid

Education

CDCA licensure (renewed)

LCDC II

LCDC III

LSW

LPC

Master's degree preferred

Tools

EMR system

Job description

About The Substance Use Disorder Case Counselor Position

Looking for meaningful clinical work without mobile case management or constant travel? Join a structured residential treatment program where all clients live on-site.

As a Substance Use Disorder Counselor, this position combines clinical counseling, residential treatment group facilitation, and in-house case management within a trauma-informed, structured clinical environment. You will work within an interdisciplinary team using evidence-based practices to help adults presenting with complex co-occurring substance use, mental health, and medical needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual substance use disorder counseling.
• Facilitate residential, outpatient, and intensive outpatient treatment groups.
• Deliver trauma-informed, evidence-based interventions.
• Provide comprehensive in-house case management (no community transport required).
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation in electronic medical records.
• Collaborate in treatment planning, team meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.
• Execute advanced responsibilities like diagnostic assessments, mentoring, and supervision support (for Level III candidates).

Salary & Career Levels

We intentionally hire clinicians as Substance Use Disorder Counselors, into a structured career ladder designed to support long-term professional growth. Placements are based on education, experience, and licensure.

• Level I (Developing Clinician): Requires active CDCA (renewed), LCDC II, or SWA.
• Level II (Licensed Clinician): Requires active LCDC III, LSW, or LPC.
• Level III (Senior Clinician): Requires LCDC III, LSW, or LPC (Master's degree preferred).

Qualifications

• Active CDCA (renewed) or higher licensure required based on case counselor level I, II, or III. A Preliminary CDCA is not sufficient.
• 1 to 3 years of experience working with substance use disorders preferred.
• Ability to facilitate residential and outpatient treatment groups.
• Strong documentation and communication skills.
• CPR/First Aid certification within 90 days of hire.
• Must be free from sanctions or exclusions from the OIG and the State of Ohio Department of Medicaid.
• Commitment to the YMCA mission and values.

Why Work at Y-Haven?

• No Travel Required: 100% on-site residential caseload with realistic productivity expectations.
• Clear Career Growth: Defined advancement pathways for developing and experienced clinicians.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, paid vacation, and an Employee Assistance Plan. Tuition Assistance of $4,000 per year is also available for full-time employees having met eligibility criteria.
• Retirement Planning: 10% retirement contribution paid by the YMCA of Greater Cleveland.
• YMCA Perks: Free membership to your local YMCA and discounts on YMCA programs, including 50% childcare discount for full-time employees.

Work Environment & Disclaimer

The worker is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions (typical office/administrative environment). The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. They are not an exhaustive list of all required responsibilities, duties, and skills. Other duties may be added, or this description amended at any time.