Substance Abuse Specialist - 00041 - Mon - Fri 9AM -5PM

About the Role

The Substance Abuse Specialist is a clinical member of the Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team responsible for leading the integration of evidence-based substance use disorder treatment into comprehensive, person-centered care. This role provides individual and group substance use counseling, coordinates treatment services, and collaborates with the multidisciplinary team to support individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders in achieving recovery and long-term stability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders to identify treatment needs and develop individualized service plans.
• Provide individual and group substance use counseling, psychoeducation, relapse prevention, and recovery-focused interventions.
• Coordinate and monitor drug and alcohol screenings and facilitate referrals to appropriate treatment providers and community recovery resources, including AA, NA, and other support programs.
• Collaborate with ACT Team members to integrate substance use treatment goals into individualized treatment plans.
• Coordinate case management services to ensure comprehensive, person-centered care.
• Serve as a liaison between the ACT program and community providers, including mental health, substance use treatment, and medical providers.
• Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, case conferences, and treatment planning.
• Monitor participant progress, update treatment plans as needed, and communicate clinical recommendations to the treatment team.
• Maintain accurate documentation in the electronic health record (EHR), including progress notes completed within required timeframes.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies and all applicable OMH, AOT, and regulatory requirements.
• Enter and maintain required data in CAIRS and other agency systems.
• Assist individuals in developing independent living skills, including budgeting, personal care, nutrition, transportation, community integration, vocational development, and social skills.
• Provide crisis intervention, mental health support, and community-based services, including accompanying individuals to appointments when appropriate.
• Participate in required ACT, OMH, and agency trainings and maintain professional competency.
• Participate in the ACT on-call rotation to provide after-hours crisis intervention and emergency support.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold professional and ethical standards at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Excellent written and verbal communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule and provide community-based services.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate an agency vehicle, as required.
• Ability to participate in after-hours on-call coverage on a rotating basis.
• Commitment to recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and person-centered care.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in social work, mental health or marriage and family therapy or a CASAC required.
• Two years experience working with Mental Health and Substance Abuse consumers preferred.
• Experience working with behavioral health population preferred.
• Computer proficiency, including the ability to use email, navigate and enter all documentation into electronic medical record.
• Valid New York State driver’s license and vehicle required; candidates are subject to regulatory background checks and must be willing to utilize own vehicle for home visits.

Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive hourly rate based on experience.
• Robust Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, and 401k retirement plan (with matching).
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, holidays, and personal days.
• Wellness Program: Free and low-cost gym and wellness access and support.
• Training & Growth: Ongoing professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Meaningful Work: Direct impact on the lives of youth and their families.
• Supportive Environment: A collaborative team that values your contributions.