Counselor I

Description

The Counselor I fulfills assigned role as a part of the treatment team, maintaining the well being of clients and integrity of the program.

Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities

• Knowledge of drug and alcohol dependency, mental health, family systems and 12-Step/recovery resources in the community. 
• Develop and maintain individualized records of client progress and participation in treatment including admission and discharge, individual, group, family, vocational (both individual and group) literacy training and other occasions as appropriate. 
• Ability to write clear statements, summarizing client’s feelings, expressions, resistance and response to their treatment plan; goals and objectives.  Includes letters to referral agencies, courts/probation.
• Ability to confront behavioral changes, identify a crisis, and recognize when additional assistance is necessary.
• Ability to recognize personal issues that have an impact on job performance and interactions with clients.
• Ability to demonstrate ethical and professional behavior.
• Ability to convey respect for cultural and lifestyle diversities of clients and staff.
• Ability to prepare for, and facilitate related educational groups.
• Basic knowledge of referrals, both in and out of the BHS treatment system. 
• May carry a caseload as needed.
• Working knowledge of the philosophy and approach of the 12-Step model of recovery (AA, CA, NA, Alanon).
• Ability to communicate clearly, with clients, staff, peers, supervisors and non-BHS resources. 
• Basic understanding of computer operations; Windows and word processing (MS Word).  Ability to readily adapt to the Caminar information system.

Counselor I Competencies and Performance Expectations

• Document client intake and treatment progress
• Identify a crisis
• Facilitate an educational group
• Liaison with and refer to treatment team, inside and outside agencies
• Assess and report client behavioral changes
• Identify personal boundaries and be able to work as part of the treatment team
• Adhere to professional standards
• Recognize personal biases working within diverse populations

Qualifications

Required Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent required; additional certification in peer support or related field preferred.

Required Experience:
- Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a behavioral health or social services setting.
- Demonstrated experience in providing peer support or similar supportive services.
- Experience in working with diverse populations and understanding cultural sensitivities.

Required Skills and Abilities:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate individuals.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Proficiency in maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information.
- Excellent problem-solving and crisis intervention skills.
- Familiarity with community resources and support networks.
- Basic computer skills, including the use of email and Microsoft Office applications.

Salary : $20 - $30