SUD Counselor

Job Description

Job Title: Primary Counselor

Department: Clinical
Reports To: Clinical Director / Chief Clinical Officer
Location: Beyond Addiction

Position Summary:

The Primary Counselor is responsible for providing comprehensive counseling and case management services to individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The counselor ensures that each client receives high-quality, person-centered care through evidence-based practices, ongoing assessment, and collaboration with the multidisciplinary treatment team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct intake assessments, biopsychosocial evaluations, and develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients.


• Facilitate individual, group, and family therapy sessions in accordance with clinical and regulatory standards.


• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including progress notes, treatment plan reviews, and discharge summaries, in compliance with agency and state standards.


• Provide case management and advocacy services, including coordination with external agencies, probation/parole officers, family members, and healthcare providers as appropriate.


• Participate in treatment team meetings, clinical supervision, and multidisciplinary case reviews.


• Utilize motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches to support clients in achieving recovery goals.


• Monitor client progress and adjust treatment plans based on individual needs and ongoing assessments.


• Provide crisis intervention and support as needed, ensuring client and staff safety.


• Maintain compliance with HIPAA, confidentiality regulations, and ethical guidelines as outlined by licensing bodies.


• Assist with discharge planning and ensure a smooth transition to appropriate aftercare or continuing support services.


• Participate in quality improvement initiatives and uphold agency standards for clinical excellence.

Qualifications:

• Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.


• Licensure/Certification:
  
  
  
  • CADC, CAADC, LPC, LSW, LCSW, or related Pennsylvania state certification/license (or eligible for licensure).
  
  
  
  


• Experience:
  
  
  
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in substance use disorder and/or mental health counseling preferred.
  
  
  
  


• Skills:
  
  
  
  • Strong clinical assessment, communication, and documentation skills.
  
  
  • Ability to maintain professionalism, empathy, and boundaries.
  
  
  • Proficient in electronic health record (EHR) systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
  
  
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  
  
  
  

Work Environment:

• This position operates in a clinical setting and requires frequent client interaction.


• Must be able to maintain a calm demeanor in potentially stressful or emotionally charged situations.


• Some evening or weekend hours may be required based on program needs.

Core Competencies:

• Ethical and Professional Conduct


• Client-Centered Approach


• Team Collaboration


• Documentation and Time Management


• Cultural Competence and Sensitivity