What are the responsibilities and job description for the Counselor position at Behavioral Health Services Inc?
Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities
- Thorough 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 clients feelings, expressions, resistance and response to their treatment plan; goals and objectives. Includes letters to referral agencies, courts/probation.
- Ability to confront behavioral changes, identifies 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 process and educational groups.
- Knowledge of referrals, both in and out of the BHS treatment system.
- 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.
- Knowledge of computer operations; Windows and word processing (MS Word). Ability to readily adapt to the Caminar information system.
Counselor Competencies and Performance Expectations
All Counselor are expected to:
- Admit, orient, and discharge clients
- Facilitate group process
- Conduct assessments
- Formulate treatment plans
- Intervene in crisis situations
- Adhere to professional boundaries
- Maintain client records
Prerequisite Qualifications
Following are the qualifications required to perform the essential functions of this position. Qualifications may be subject to modification based on the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Bilingual abilities may be required within certain BHS programs.
High school diploma or equivalency. Required current certification number issued from a statewide or nationwide credentialing body (i.e. CCAPP, CAADE) received upon completion of passing the California Certification exam. Two years supervised experience working in substance abuse and/or a related field. Failure to maintain certification will result in result in loss of employment.