Behavioral Health Counselor - Residential

About the Role

The Behavioral Health Counselor plays a critical role in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges by providing compassionate, evidence-based counseling and intervention services. This position focuses on assessing clients' behavioral health needs, developing personalized treatment plans, and facilitating therapeutic sessions to promote emotional well-being and resilience. The counselor collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams, including medical professionals and social workers, to ensure comprehensive care and continuity of support. Additionally, the role involves educating clients and their families about coping strategies and available resources to empower them in managing their conditions effectively. Ultimately, the Behavioral Health Counselor contributes to improving clients' quality of life by fostering positive behavioral changes and supporting long-term mental health recovery.

Responsibilities

• Participate in case conferences or staff meetings.
• Arrange case/family conferences and other meetings (~3%).
• Support clients, individually and in group therapy, to explore and process issues associated with addiction and addictive behaviors (~50%).
• Assist clients in adjusting to life or making changes using evidence-based treatment practices and techniques.
• Handle cases as assigned and in consultation with the Chief Clinical Officer and/or Program Manager.
• Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding clients' histories and progress, services provided, or other required information in a timely manner (~30%). Includes treatment plans, group and individual notes, and case management notes.
• Coordinate counseling efforts with mental health professionals or other health professionals, such as doctors, nurses, or social workers (~3%).
• Provide non-admission contact services to potential clients and other one-time services (~1%).
• Consult with the Director of AoD Residential Services regarding case conferences and outreach activities (~10%).
• Ensure compliance with program policies/procedures and goals by clients enrolled in Nova programs (~2%).
• Perform/supervise household and other milieu duties as deemed necessary by the Chief Clinical Officer and/or Program Manager (~1%).

Requirements

• 1–3 years of relevant experience in the treatment of Alcohol/Drug and Mental Health.
• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Valid state licensure or certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Social Worker (LSW), or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with mental health and substance use disorders.
• Training or certification in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or motivational interviewing.
• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and telehealth platforms.
• Additional certifications related to behavioral health specialties or wellness coaching.

Skills

The Behavioral Health Counselor utilizes active listening and empathetic communication skills daily to build trust and rapport with clients, facilitating open and honest dialogue. Clinical assessment and diagnostic skills are essential for accurately identifying client needs and formulating effective treatment plans. The counselor applies therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to guide clients toward positive behavioral changes. Collaboration and coordination skills are employed to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams and community resources, ensuring holistic client care. Additionally, strong organizational and documentation skills are necessary to maintain detailed client records and comply with regulatory requirements.