Substance Abuse Counselor

Position Overview The Drug and Alcohol Counselor at Renew Recovery Center plays a vital role in supporting clients throughout their recovery journey. This position is responsible for facilitating group and individual sessions, developing and maintaining individualized treatment plans, coordinating with interdisciplinary teams, and ensuring that services are delivered in accordance with regulatory and ethical standards. The Counselor will also provide crisis support, discharge planning, and referrals to aftercare or community-based services. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GEDActive and valid certification as a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor (CADC, SUDCC, or equivalent) through a DHCS-approved certifying bodyMinimum of one (1) year of direct experience in a clinical SUD treatment settingCPR and First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)Valid California Driver’s License and insurability under company policyWorking knowledge of HIPAA, client rights, and confidentiality regulations Preferred Qualifications Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related fieldTwo (2) to five (5) years of experience in substance use or co-occurring treatmentExperience with electronic health records (EHR) and clinical documentation systemsFamiliarity with trauma-informed care and co-occurring disordersBilingual abilities (preferred, not required) Primary Responsibilities Complete initial intake assessments and collaboratively develop individualized treatment plansProvide a minimum of two individual counseling sessions per week per clientFacilitate therapeutic, educational, and process groups as scheduledMonitor client participation, progress, and behavior throughout treatmentMaintain accurate and timely documentation in alignment with DHCS standards and facility policyAddress and report clinical concerns to the Clinical Director or multidisciplinary teamOffer emotional support, brief interventions, and participate in crisis management when neededParticipate in discharge planning, including linkage to aftercare and community resourcesCoordinate with case managers, medical providers, job developers, mental health professionals, and external partners to meet client needsCommunicate with family members and authorized individuals to support treatment engagement, as permitted by the clientAttend clinical staffing meetings, case conferences, and required trainingsMaintain compliance with all ethical and professional standards of care GENERAL EXPECTATIONS Adhere to all agency policies and procedures, including safety protocols, client confidentiality, and professional boundariesDemonstrate cultural competency and sensitivity to diverse populationsParticipate in continuous professional development and maintain required certificationsRepresent Renew Recovery Center with professionalism, compassion, and integrityPerform additional duties as assigned to support the overall success of the clinical program Working Conditions / Physical Requirements Direct engagement with clients in a residential or outpatient behavioral health settingMay require standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods and lifting up to 25 poundsMust be able to manage emotionally challenging situations and high-stress environmentsFlexible schedule may include evening or weekend hours as needed ATTENDANCE Consistently punctual and reliable in attendanceFollows all notification procedures for scheduled and unscheduled absencesReturns from breaks and meal periods in a timely mannerMaintains professional demeanor, attire, and boundaries with clients and staffSupports continuity of care and consistent programming through dependable attendance Apply Now