Substance Use Therapist

This is responsible professional work in the field of substance use and mental health. Employees in this class are responsible for providing clinical services for persons experiencing substance use disorders and assisting these persons in accessing other needed services. This position incorporates providing integrated substance use and mental health services and the establishment of cooperative working relationships with other departments and other facilities providing services for consumers. 

 

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

Conduct ADMH-approved assessments of clients according to established procedure, assessing each client's problems and needs, developing an initial diagnosis, and determining most appropriate level of care to treat the client's substance use disorder(s).

Develop treatment plans using information gathered in the assessment throughout the course of treatment, setting goals which are client-centered and attainable.

Participate in training activities as required by Carastar to increase and enhance professional and therapeutic skills.

Conduct individual, group, and family therapy sessions for individuals admitted to the substance use program.

Participate in clinical supervision as required.

Update treatment plans as appropriate, reviewing objectives, goals, and interventions.

Provide crisis intervention and assessments for clients seen on an emergency basis.

Provide mental health consultation to other agencies or providers assisting Carastar's clients.

Ensure reports, forms, and all other required paperwork (consumer releases, admission/discharge documentation, records of client interactions, etc.) are accurate and documented in clients' records

Engage in community service and consultation work with other groups and agencies.

Provide client and/or family psychoeducation, as outlined in the client's treatment plan.

Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Position has a 60% productivity requirement. 

 

REQUIREMENTS

Considerable knowledge of individual and group behavior, with special emphasis on substance use disorders.

Knowledge of the principles and methods of counseling.

Knowledge of assessing mental status and determining needs of persons in need of substance use services.

Basic knowledge of medications used to treat psychiatric/mental disorders, including desired effects, side effects, and issues related to medication adherence.

Ability to clearly and competently communicate orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with clients, families, external agencies and providers, and community mental health center staff.

Ability to proactively, assertively, and energetically fulfill the duties of this position.

Ability to work effectively as a treatment team member.

Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and/or weekends if necessary.

Reliable transportation and willingness to transport clients.

Basic computer literacy.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Master's Degree in the behavioral sciences from a recognized college or university with a clinical practicum.

Professional license (ALC or LPC), substance abuse-related certification, OR be eligible for licensure or certification.****

Some clinical experience preferred.

Degree and experience must meet requirements for Approved Medicaid Provider Status.

Must hold and maintain a valid driver's license maintain a driving record that is acceptable to Carastar's insurance carrier.

Must maintain at least liability coverage on personal vehicles.

Must maintain a current Red Cross First Aid/CPR and CPI certifications.

 

****Licensure is not a requirement of this position. If you do not hold one of the licenses above, you may still apply. If hired, you will begin as a Therapist I which is in a classification with a lower salary range. While you are not required to obtain a license; if/when you become licensed, you will advance to the Therapist II classification.****

Unlicensed/Uncertified applicants who are hired must pursue certification under the supervision of a Qualified Substance Abuse Professional I (QSAP I). An approved substance abuse-related certification must be obtained within 30 months of hire.