Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Position Summary/Objective

This is a professional counseling and case management position in the drug and alcohol field. All work is performed within State of PA licensure guidelines and in accordance with Gaiser Center established policies and procedures.

Working as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor requires patience, dedication, and a genuine desire to help people in crisis. This position provides clients with confidential counseling and support, with the goal of encouraging a healthy, addiction-free lifestyle.

Organizational Responsibilities

• Comply with Federal confidentiality rule (42 CFR Part 2). This rule prohibits making any disclosure of confidential information unless expressly permitted by written consent or otherwise permitted by law.
• Comply with all applicable State confidentiality laws.
• Ensure compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, conferences, and professional development training.
• Promote and follow safe working practices and take necessary steps to prevent injuries.

Position Responsibilities

• Assess and professionally evaluate the drug and alcohol needs of individuals using ASAM, DSM-5, and relevant PA laws and statutes (e.g., PA Act 106).
• Provide all required charting for assigned caseload including intake notes, treatment plans, updates, referral notes, aftercare plans, and discharge summaries.
• Develop meaningful, comprehensive, and individualized treatment plans with client input; monitor progress and measure results.
• Conduct intake interviews and utilization reviews with insurance carriers/funding sources, including responsibility for admission, continued stay, and discharge ASAM authorizations.
• Facilitate group sessions (process and didactic) and conduct individual and family counseling sessions using evidence-based treatment modalities. Prepare and research relevant materials as needed.
• Manage client records by completing documentation accurately and within required timeframes.
• Present case summaries during staff meetings and engage in collaborative treatment planning.
• Coordinate care with healthcare providers, agencies, and community resources to ensure continuity of services.
• Provide crisis interventions when necessary.
• Demonstrate empathy, compassion, and professional boundaries with clients.
• Maintain a minimum of 25 CEUs per fiscal year, as required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of substance use disorder practices, subculture, and treatment methods.
• Understanding of crisis intervention, individual, family, group, and marital counseling techniques.
• Familiarity with Motivational Interviewing and other evidence-based treatment theories.
• Knowledge of treatment facilities, human service agencies, and behavioral health resources.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and time management skills.
• Ability to multi-task and remain effective in high-stress environments.
• Commitment to professional ethical standards and conduct.

Education/Experience Requirements (must meet PA Department of Health criteria):

• Master's degree in chemical dependency, psychology, social work, or related human services field with practicum experience, preferably in drug and alcohol settings.
• PA state certification (CAC, CCDP, CCJP) preferred.

Other Competencies

• Satisfactory criminal background check and pre-employment drug testing required.
• Valid PA driver's license in preferred in good standing.

Working Conditions

• Primary work is performed in an office environment.
• Requires sitting, standing, and computer use typical of office work.
• Extended hours may be required to meet client needs.
• Manual dexterity required for computer use.

Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and responsibilities. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, skills, or working conditions. Additional functions may be required to meet organizational objectives.