SUBSTANCE ABUSE CLINICAL DIRECTOR

About the Role

The Substance Abuse Clinical Director manages the day-to-day operations of the Level I Outpatient Substance Abuse Program, ensuring compliance with Alabama Department of Mental Health and Joint Commission guidelines.

This position reports to the Director of Behavioral Health and supervises the following roles: SA Therapist, SA Intake Specialist, SA Billing Specialist, SA Assessment Specialist, Certified Peer Specialist, SA Case Manager, and SA Assessment/Intake staff.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the delivery and documentation of clinical services for program clients.
• Conduct admission evaluations in accordance with program admission and readmission policies.
• Ensure the quality and appropriateness of clinical services within the Level I Outpatient Substance Abuse Program.
• Provide annual training for Substance Abuse Program staff as required by governing bodies.
• Conduct comprehensive intake interviews and prepare detailed intake reports.
• Develop and conduct treatment activities based on client treatment plans.
• Provide individual and group counseling services.
• Conduct educational programs related to substance abuse prevention and recovery.
• Coordinate referrals for supportive services, including employment, vocational training, legal services, and medical care.
• Assist in maintaining the Substance Abuse Program.
• Participate in educational programs and in-service training.
• Ensure compliance with Alabama Department of Mental Health and Joint Commission standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief Medical Officer.
• Research grant opportunities to support existing and future programs.
• Assist with grant budget preparation, monitoring expenditures, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

Customer Satisfaction

• Provide exceptional customer service to patients, visitors, guests, and staff.
• Maintain professionalism and protect confidentiality.
• Respond promptly to customer concerns and communicate effectively.
• Demonstrate respect and promote service excellence.

Health & Safety Requirements

• Adhere to all safety regulations, personnel policies, and procedures.
• Complete annual Safety and Hazardous Communication training.

Privacy Rule Compliance

• Comply with all HIPAA Privacy Rule policies and procedures.
• Complete annual HIPAA Privacy training.
• Protect patient privacy and maintain confidentiality.
• Ensure patient information is maintained according to applicable privacy standards.
• Maintain the security of patient records.

This position is classified as a Primary Provider and is granted unrestricted access to Protected Health Information (PHI) for patient care and restricted access for other authorized uses in accordance with HIPAA policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• Licensed in the State of Alabama as a Professional Counselor, Certified Social Worker, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Psychologist, Physician Assistant, or Physician.
• Master’s degree or higher in psychology, social work, counseling, psychiatric nursing, or another behavioral health field from an accredited college or university, or possess an approved substance abuse counselor certification.
• Minimum of five (5) years of substance abuse prevention and treatment experience.
• Minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Valid driver’s license, liability insurance, and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work effectively with clients, healthcare professionals, and multidisciplinary teams.

Other Qualifications

• Strong English communication skills are required.
• Bilingual and bicultural candidates are encouraged to apply.
• Ability to work under stressful conditions and occasional irregular hours.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Exercise sound judgment and balanced decision-making.
• Knowledge of community support systems, healthcare resources, legal services, and related agencies.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.

Classification: Exempt