Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor

About the role

A Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor works closely with clients entering treatment for substance abuse and/or other addictive disorders. The counselor promotes an environment conducive to patient adjustment and transition to healthier lifestyles.

Responsibilities

• Conducts individual and group counseling sessions for clients.
• Assesses client attitudes and progress regarding treatment, family, vocation, self-esteem, social adjustment, interpersonal relations, and coping skills.
• Documents and maintains accurate records as required by Vitality Unlimited and the Substance Abuse Prevention Treatment Agency (SAPTA).
• Ensures the quality of substance abuse treatment services provided by Vitality Unlimited programs as described by ASAM placement criteria.
• Documents client’s progress in ECW in a timely manner and maintains clinical records according to SAPTA and Vitality Unlimited policies.
• Obtains signed consents for paper files.
• Ensures that assigned clients complete all phases of treatment by scheduled graduation date.
• Develops treatment plans with patient input, reviews, and amends as needed.
• Participates in client intake process and discharge planning.
• Interviews client’s family members.
• Attends and participates in weekly staff meetings and in-service training as scheduled.
• Develops materials for groups and lectures.
• Monitors clients to ensure house rules and assigned chores are followed.
• Participates in crisis intervention as required.
• Schedules one weekly individual counseling session per assigned patient (up to 10 clients) throughout the treatment period.
• Is accountable to the Program Manager or Program Coordinator for treatment responsibilities.
• Takes on-call rotation as scheduled by the Program Coordinator or Program Manager.
• Follows the Code of Ethics as stated in NAC 458.
• Complies with confidentiality requirements as set forth in CFR42 Part II and HIPAA regulations.
• Meets with LADC supervisor weekly.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Must provide certification at time of employment.
• A valid Nevada Driver License and proof of insurance.
• Must have a clean driving record.
• Capable of responding to resident’s needs in a variety of situations.
• Physical stamina and the ability to perform tasks that require bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods of time.
• Must consistently provide a negative drug screen.

Qualifications

• At least five years’ experience employed in counseling substance abusers, adult or adolescents, or a combination of education and experience equivalent to five years’ experience.
• Must be certified or licensed by the Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors or must be eligible for licensure, certification, or internship.
• Must keep all requirements for CEUs (Continuing Education Units) complete to maintain certification or licensure.

Skills

• Knowledge of Substance Abuse treatment and addictive behaviors.
• Familiar with State and community resources for alcohol and drug abuse.
• Must know the Vitality Unlimited patterns and disease concepts of alcoholism with studies in sociology, psychology, and related areas.