Addiction Counselor

Tuerk House, a leading non-profit behavioral health organization, is seeking a Peer Recovery Coach for our Highland House in Howard County, MD. This position is crucial in providing support and guidance to individuals navigating their recovery journey. 

Position Title: Addiction Counselor
Reports To: Director of Clinical Services
FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary:

The Substance Abuse Counselor is responsible for planning and conducting counseling activities for clients on an individual and group basis. This role requires the ability to perform independent and advanced work with clients, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the full continuum of care and the operational aspects of the program. The counselor is expected to exercise significant initiative and independent judgment in their duties, with work being reviewed by the Clinical Director through evaluations of assignments and supervision sessions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and current records, including TAP/bio-psycho-social assessments, evaluations, and client case records, following established guidelines.
• Urine Sample Coordination: Oversee the collection of urine samples, ensuring adherence to all protocols and chain of custody guidelines.
• Collaboration: Work with social agencies, managed care organizations, hospitals, clinics, courts, and gatekeepers to support clients with chemical dependency and/or mental health issues.
• Counseling and Education: Provide substance abuse counseling, assessment, and education to clients in individual and group sessions, utilizing appropriate educational materials.
• Chart Maintenance: Maintain comprehensive client charts with all relevant program forms and reports.
• Treatment Planning: Collaborate with the Program Director to develop and implement individualized treatment plans, including ongoing assessments of client status in the program.
• Referrals: Refer clients to additional support services as needed.
• Caseload Management: Manage a full caseload of clients, ensuring adherence to program standards.
• Ethical Standards: Support and adhere to Tuerk House’s Code of Ethics, Code of Conduct, and all personnel policies.
• Continuing Education: Engage in ongoing training in areas designated by the supervisor to enhance professional skills.
• Licensure and Credentials: Maintain a relevant professional certifications.
• Other Duties: Perform additional duties as assigned by the Clinical Director.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Chemical Dependency: Strong understanding of the TAP and the bio-psycho-social aspects of chemical dependency and/or mental illness.
• Behavioral Knowledge: Significant knowledge of individual and group behavior and effective methods to promote recovery.
• Client Relationship Skills: Ability to work effectively with clients, helping them achieve treatment goals.
• Cultural Competence: Demonstrated ability to work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and establish effective working relationships.
• Group Facilitation Experience: Knowledge and experience in conducting group sessions, including house meetings and general meetings.
• Licensure Requirements: Must hold a Maryland Board of Professional Counselors license as an LCPC, LMSW, LGPC, LGADC, LCADC, or LCSW-C, or be certified as a CAC-AD or CSC-AD. A copy of the licensure certificate will be required.
• Flexibility: Must be available to work daytime and evening hours as needed.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and ability to learn in-house software (SMART and Beacon Health).
• Training Commitment: Must complete annual training requirements of 25 hours per year.
• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential.
• Availability: This position may require weekend and/or evening duties as needed.

Company Benefits:

• Generous PTO: Enjoy a competitive paid time off policy to promote work-life balance.
• Health Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance to support your overall well-being.
• HRSA Eligibility: Eligible for Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) benefits, providing additional support and resources.

Join Tuerk House and make a meaningful impact on the lives of individuals and families seeking recovery and support!

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)

Tuerk House is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.