Substance Use Counselor

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What You Will Do:
General Summary
Under general supervision, provides limited psychiatric counseling services to acutely ill alcoholic or drug-addicted patients, in accordance with Department of Psychiatry policies and procedures.
Principal Responsibilities and Tasks
The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.
Participates in the development of treatment planning services to meet the requirements of acutely ill alcoholic or drug-addicted patients and families, where applicable, within the scope of the patient's total health care program, in accordance with generally accepted psychiatric counseling practices and departmental policies and procedures. Interviews patients, relatives and significant others to obtain data to assess psycho-social needs and/or health problems and determine the need for psychiatric services and/or eligibility for specific services.
Identifies symptoms of the acutely ill alcoholic or drug-addicted patient/client and responds to their individuals needs, appropriately, within the scope of the program. Obtains personal, family information and various relevant data, including urinalysis, from patients to evaluate eligibility and appropriateness for admission to the clinic in accordance with department guidelines for admission.
Develops preliminary treatment plan based upon assessment of patient's individual needs and submits to the supervisor or manager for approval.
Assesses acuteness of patient's physical condition and secures appropriate medical services or refers patient for other treatment services, as appropriate.
Participates in evaluating program objectives, results and in program improvement, in collaboration with the supervisor or manager and in accordance with the mission of the hospital and department.
Performs discharge planning.
Provides addictions assessment and counseling for patients with dual diagnosis of psychiatric disorder and addiction. Utilizes therapeutic communication skills. Follows departmental protocols. Consults with the supervisor/manager regarding treatment recommendations. Handles psychological or psychiatric conditions and violent actions using appropriate counseling interventions.
Teaches alcohol and drug education; facilitates support groups.
Communicates with medical and nursing staff, patients, relatives, and appropriate outside agencies to coordinate complete psycho-social services for patients. Confers with various hospital personnel, as necessary, on behalf of the patient. Works with and participates as a team member to the health care team regarding in-hospital needs and post-hospital care.
Interprets psycho-social services program policies and procedures to clients, staff, and community organizations.
Performs case presentations as requested.
Documents information obtained from patient interviews, patient evaluation/assessments and treatment plans appropriately, following department procedures/protocols to maintain State, Federal, and The Joint Commission stipulated documentation requirements.
Collects and revises information on community heath and welfare resources. Assists patients in securing needed equipment (e.g. orthopedic, hearing, optical, other) through agencies and rentals, as appropriate.
Observes department policies, procedures, objectives and quality assurance program, safety, infection and environmental control. Maintains confidentiality in accordance with hospital and departmental policy and professional standards.
Attends and participates in departmental meetings, activities, and relevant committees, as required.
May participate in cross coverage and on-call coverage when needed.
What You Need to Be Successful:
Education and Experience
High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required. Bachelor's degree in a Human Services related field is preferred. Bachelor's degree may substitute for the experience requirement on a year for year basis.
Certification as a Certified Alcoholism Counselor (CAC), or Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor (CCDC), or Certified Supervised Counselor (CSC) is required.
Two years of alcohol and drug treatment/counseling experience in a health care related setting, or equivalent work experience, is required.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

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