Substance Use Counselor/Case Manager

About the role

This position provides ongoing individual and group counseling, case management, and supervision of adult male ex-offenders within a Residential Reentry Center. The role oversees all aspects of an assigned caseload of individual residents throughout their participation in the residential service program.

Responsibilities

• Conduct all substance use-related functions: intake, assessment, education, individual and group counseling, referral, and treatment planning using Evidence-Based Cognitive Therapies (Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change, Trauma-Informed Care).
• Conduct intakes using ASI, ASAM, and URICA assessments.
• Maintain all resident records as required by the residential program, funding sources, and licensing bodies.
• Coordinate community referrals and maintain follow-up to document progress.
• Provide case management to residents by creating a programming schedule and ensuring all needs are met.
• Collaborate with the resident’s DCC Agent and provide notifications of any Accident/Incident Reports.
• Participate in weekly Community Reintegration Plan meetings to create and review residents' progress.
• Develop Individualized Treatment Plans and monitor progress toward goal completion.
• Conduct weekly one-to-one counseling sessions with residents and document Case Notes.
• Facilitate groups and assist with coverage for other groups.
• Coordinate residents' mental health treatment with the Mental Health Counselor/Case Manager.
• Motivate residents to follow program expectations using incentives and sanctions as needed.
• Approve or deny resident passes in conjunction with the Assistant Program Director/Program Director.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Ensure all required resident surveys are completed.
• Complete all discharge summaries.
• Maintain positive working relationships with staff, corrections personnel, and community representatives.
• Attend weekly IDT supervision sessions and monthly All Staff meetings.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of an associate’s degree in a social-service area; BA degree in social services preferred.
• Wisconsin Substance Abuse Counselor-In Training certification (SAC-IT) required; SAC or CSAC preferred.
• Experience in providing AODA program services to correctional residents using cognitive behavioral methodology and Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a plus.
• Ability to deliver services to this population and implement evidence-based practices.
• Must obtain or attend training for CPR, First Aid, Fire Safety, Universal Precautions, and other certifications as required.
• Must clear Caregiver and Background checks, and pass a physical exam prior to hire.
• Valid driver’s license, automobile, and insurance sufficient to meet agency requirements.

Skills

• Counseling knowledge and skills to deliver services using Cognitive-Based Evidence Best Practices.
• Knowledge of corrections, mental illness, current DSM, and pharmacology is preferred.
• Ability to communicate effectively and positively with staff and clients.
• Ability to respond appropriately in crisis situations.
• Sensitivity toward cultural, ethnic, and disability issues.
• Good organizational and computer skills.
• Effective time management and ability to assist clients with various activities.

Work Relationship and Scope

Reports directly to the Assistant Program Director/Program Director. Works with counseling staff, resident monitors, and other program personnel, as well as corrections representatives, program consultants, and other agency personnel. The primary focus is to provide individual and group counseling, case-management services, and ensure offender accountability to maintain public safety.

Personal Attributes

• Adhere to agency Code of Conduct and Leadership Code of Conduct.
• Conduct self in an ethical manner.
• Maintain professional and respectful relationships with staff, clients, and external agencies.
• Demonstrate commitment to agency values and mission.

Working Conditions

• Work is primarily performed in a residential facility, office, or meeting room.
• Some meetings, appointments, or training may be held at other locations.
• Hours average 40 hours per week, mostly first shift, with some second-shift hours possible.
• May occasionally require driving a resident to an appointment.

Physical Demands

• Occasionally transport residents; valid driver’s license and insured auto required.
• Must be able to lift 10 to 15 pounds.
• Must be able to conduct emergency CPR/First Aid as needed.
• Position requires sitting at a desk for several hours.
• Must have the ability to climb two to three flights of stairs.