Addictions Counselor - New Start - Volunteers of America, Dakotas

Department: New Start                                 

Job Status: Full Time                                                       

Reports To: Managing Director of Residential

Work Schedule: Full-time position requiring flexibility in scheduling.  

POSITION SUMMARY
The New Start Addictions Counselor substance use counseling and treatment services to women and their families, in an inpatient recovery facility serving pregnant and parenting women. Each counselor plays a crucial role in our mission to transform lives through dedicated service. With a deep understanding and proficiency in the ASAM Criteria, the counselor tailors their approach to meet the diverse needs of clients. 

Demonstrating a profound commitment to our values, the Addictions Counselor treats all clients with empathy, dignity, and compassion, understanding their unique circumstances and what can be done to assist them effectively. This position requires a willingness to be trained in new evidence-based treatments to facilitate group sessions, ensuring that the counselor remains at the forefront of innovative practices in addiction treatment.

By creating a positive and supportive environment, the Addictions Counselor empowers women to realize their strengths and develop the skills and tools needed for successful recovery and reintegration into the community. Through their dedicated and professional service, the Addictions Counselor embodies the organization’s commitment to stewardship and quality, contributing to the positive transformation of lives and communities.

Reasonable Accommodations Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS STATEMENT(S)

Primary Duties

1. Conduct bio-psycho-social assessments and evaluations as assigned.
2. Facilitate group therapy sessions, make-up groups, aftercare counseling sessions, individual counseling and educational/support groups as scheduled
3. Complete a treatment plan with each participant
4. Document participant's participation in all scheduled groups and counseling sessions. 
5. Develop discharge summaries on all participants.
6. Complete release/consent forms to all appropriate individuals/agencies
7. Attend and participate in all scheduled staff meetings
8. Ensure that all charting and all participant records comply with accreditation requirements
9. Keep referral agencies informed of participant's progress in treatment to include but not limited to parole, CPS, attorney's, etc..
10. Provide communication with all referral sources at least monthly or as requested. 
11. Attend training required for professional certification and to meet program licensing standards 
12. Ensure that participant files are in compliance with licensing and accreditation standards.
13. Assist in the development and review and updating of program materials as needed including handbooks, marketing materials, etc.
14. Work to ensure positive relationships with staff, participants, and stakeholders.
15. Utilize electronic system for participant records and ensure effective processes for maintaining documentation.

Responsible for other duties as requested.

POSITIONS QUALIFICATIONS
SKILLS & ABILITIES

Education & Experience: Bachelors or master’s degree is preferred and/or a minimum of two years related work experience, or an equivalent combination.                 

Skills:                              Ability to manage multiple priorities and balance perspectives. Able to remain clam in escalated situations. Effective communication, appropriate boundaries, flexibility and willingness to learn are essential. 

Certifications & Licenses: Must be certified or certifiable at CAC or LAC level for addiction counseling in the state of South Dakota. 

Other Requirements: Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

1. Ability to Stand, Walk, sit, manually manipulate, reach outward and above shoulders, speak, climb, crawl, squat, kneel, and bend on a daily basis

2. Capability to Lift, carry, push or pull up to 25 lbs on a daily basis