Counselor

About the role

The Counselor is a dedicated behavioral health professional responsible for delivering individual, group, and family services within a trauma-informed, recovery-oriented treatment setting. This role is vital in conducting screenings, developing treatment plans, and ensuring high-quality documentation aligned with Iowa HHS, federal, and payer standards. You will function as a collaborative member of a multidisciplinary team to support client safety, stabilization, and long-term recovery outcomes.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct biopsychosocial assessments and risk screenings in accordance with established clinical protocols and Iowa state guidelines.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans aligned with ASAM criteria and client-specific needs.
• Facilitate structured individual, group, and family counseling sessions using evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
• Respond to clinical crises according to facility policy, ensuring safety and program integrity.
• Document all services accurately and timely, adhering to Iowa Medicaid (IME), commercial payer, and Joint Commission (TJC) standards.
• Maintain progress notes, treatment plan reviews, and discharge summaries that reflect trauma-informed practices.
• Uphold strict confidentiality, ethical guidelines, and 42 CFR Part 2 regulations.
• Participate in interdisciplinary treatment team meetings and utilization management reviews.
• Collaborate with internal medical and recovery support staff to ensure integrated, holistic care.
• Communicate with external partners, referral sources, and family systems to support successful transitions in care.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related behavioral health field from an accredited institution.
• Certification: Current, unrestricted certification or license in the State of Iowa appropriate for substance use counseling (e.g., tCADC, CADC, IADC).
• Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire).

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced state-recognized addiction counseling certification (e.g., IADC, LIADC).
• Experience in residential, detox, or ASAM 3.5/3.7 levels of care.
• Knowledge of Iowa-specific Medicaid documentation and TJC/CARF accreditation standards.
• Training in trauma-specific models or culturally responsive care for diverse populations.

Work Conditions

• On-site role in a residential treatment environment.
• Requires standing, walking, and direct patient interaction.
• Shifts may include evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight coverage.