Prison Based Addictions Counselor

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. The organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters.

About the role

Gateway Foundation is seeking dedicated counselors to join our Newberry site, where we provide group-based, trauma-informed substance use treatment for incarcerated men. This role offers the opportunity to build strong clinical independence while supporting clients on their journey toward recovery and successful reintegration into society. At Newberry, counselors typically lead one to two groups of 15 clients and are part of a statewide support network that fosters collaboration and a sense of community across Michigan facilities.

Responsibilities

• Provides group orientation, individual intake, comprehensive assessment, Mid-Program assessment, and discharge planning including aftercare recommendations, in accordance with MDOC contract requirements.
• Documents treatment and discharge plans, and client’s progress and responses to treatment; maintains related records and charts.
• Provides evidence-based group therapy for up to 15 offenders per group in accordance with MDOC contract requirements.
• Provides individual segregation discharges as needed/approved for offenders terminated early from substance abuse services, in accordance with MDOC contract requirements and at the discretion of the correctional facility.
• Completion of reporting requirements.
• Adherence to MDOC policies and procedures, with specific attention to safety and security, and maintenance of professional boundaries with offender population.
• Ability to navigate between internal electronic health record and Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) system for reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two years’ experience OR Master’s Degree and a minimum of one year of experience.
• Experience in a substance abuse-related field, with specific skills in counseling, assessment, treatment planning, and group therapy; experience working with an offender population.
• Clinical licensure and/or certification in the State of Michigan or ability to obtain this within a designated timeframe specified through the Michigan Board of Addiction Professionals (MCBAP), preferred.
• Ability to follow MDOC directives and remain flexible as needed to accommodate facility space and scheduling.
• Ability to work independently and/or with team members as available.
• Ability to receive and apply clinical supervision feedback as needed.
• Excellent attendance and punctuality to ensure consistent delivery of services.

Benefits

• Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents.
• Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums.
• Employee assistance programs focused on mental health.
• Financial Wellbeing: 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match.
• Short-term and long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance paid for by Gateway.
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Flexibility and Time Off: 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service.
• 9 paid company holidays.
• Personal Development: Training & Development Programs.
• Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year.
• eLearning access to online courses that provide CEUs and job-related training.
• Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance.

Pay

$22.00 - $30.00 per hour (based on experience and credentials). Gateway Foundation conducts annual reviews including merit increases.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 3:30pm.

Location

Newberry Correctional Facility - 13747 E. County Road 428, Newberry, MI 49868. In-prison male outpatient treatment setting.