Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Assertive Community Treatment

Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Assertive Community Treatment #1440

Join to apply for the Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Assertive Community Treatment #1440 role at Life Works NW
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The Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program is a multidisciplinary team approach with assertive outreach in the community for clients experiencing the most severe symptoms of mental illness. ACT programs are evidence‑based and fidelity reviewed to help support those clients at highest risk of psychiatric crisis, hospitalization, and involvement in the criminal justice system.

The Substance Use Disorder Counselor provides in‑person screening and referral for substance use disorder treatment services and case management. Services are provided both onsite and in the community. Responsibilities include completing ASAM assessments, coordinating referrals to residential or intensive outpatient chemical dependency treatment services, and assisting clients in different stages of change related to substance abuse, focusing on building motivation. The role works as a member of a multidisciplinary team.

Location: Life Works NW’s Beaverton site.

Pay/Benefits: $25.42–$32.59 per hour plus full benefits.

Salary Placement Notice: The posted salary range reflects the compensation potential for this role. Most candidates will be placed between the entry level and midpoint of the range, depending on their experience and qualifications. Candidates with extensive experience may be considered for placement toward the higher end of the range. Final salary offers are made in alignment with internal compensation processes in accordance with Oregon Pay Equity laws.

• In‑person screening, substance use and risk assessments including initial intake interview, formulation of a substance use diagnosis, and identification of appropriate referrals for treatment services.
• Provide crisis intervention and support, as appropriate.
• Develop a plan to connect the individual to substance use disorder services and an interim plan for the person to access support between the time of screening and admission to treatment, based on the individual's interests, abilities, strengths, and clinical needs.
• Maintain awareness of community referral resources and build positive relationships with other community providers, providing appropriate referral services.
• Provide culturally appropriate resources, support linkage, advocacy, and community collaboration as well as evaluation for individuals.
• Provide training to staff, caregivers, and families regarding substance use issues as they relate to clients.
• Provide accurate screenings for mental health, health, gambling, suicide ideation, trauma, and domestic violence issues and make referrals to appropriate service providers as necessary.
• Provide referral services to individuals and their families, e.g., residential services, community resources, recovery support services.
• Counsel individuals or families using evidence‑based treatment practices to help them understand problems, define goals, and develop realistic action plans.
• Develop and maintain relationships with substance use treatment providers to ensure a smooth transition into care for individuals.
• Serve as back‑up for other staff when needed.
• Observe and evaluate individual’s behavior, social development, physical health, motivation, and readiness for treatment.
• Identify and diagnose substance use disorders using information obtained from interviews, records, and reference materials.
• Notify individuals of diagnosis and initial treatment recommendations in a timely manner, complete written narrative of the screening assessment, and obtain necessary authorizations for disclosure.
• Involve significant other(s), caregivers, and care providers in the care plan as indicated and planned with the individual.
• Coordinate and collaborate with physicians, staff, families, caregivers, referents, etc. for service coordination.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of screening and referral to services.
• Document and maintain client records in the electronic health care system within 24 hours of meeting with the client to ensure compliance with agency and contract guidelines…