Substance Use Disorder Program Specialist

SUD Program Specialist – Position Description

Hyacinth Wellness seeks a SUD program specialist to provide SUD and mental health‑related services, educational workshops, and case management support to PGCPS high school students, staff, and families. The program specialist will report to the HHP program manager and work alongside the SUD counseling specialist and school team to identify and address student needs during and after school. This position requires experience in trauma‑informed care, addiction and mental health treatment, a knowledge and network of relevant resources, and a commitment to support the well‑being of students dealing with behavioral health challenges.

Hyacinth Wellness launched the "Higher Heightz" Program (HHP), the organization’s school‑based behavioral health program serving PGCPS high schools under the Community Supports Partnership Grant. HHP incorporates evidence‑based practices and collaborates with school‑based teams, mental health partners, and stakeholders to address the needs of the students, staff, and school community. HHP adopts a three‑tiered approach, offering universal screening and prevention for all students, education for staff and families, targeted support through group sessions and family engagement activities for at‑risk students, and individualized treatment based on students’ level of risk.

• Program Implementation
  • Support the implementation of HHP at assigned site(s), ensuring that services are effective and achieving program goals.
  • Collaborate with school staff and stakeholders to integrate SUD prevention, intervention, and treatment services and coordinate care.
• Prevention, Early Intervention, and Treatment Support
  • Collaborate with the counseling specialist and school team to implement universal screening and follow‑up.
  • Support and co‑facilitate school‑wide initiatives providing education on substance use prevention and mental health awareness to students, staff, and families.
  • Co‑facilitate early intervention activities and groups with HHP counseling specialist and lead peer support groups engaging students with creative alternatives to substance use.
  • Engage students, staff, and families in community meetings to raise awareness, support with accessing care, and keep parents informed and involved in treatment.
  • Support the restorative practices of reintegrating students into school after challenges like overdoses or treatment.
• Training and Professional Development
  • Support professional development training for school staff on recognizing signs of substance use.
  • Collaborate with school wellness teams to enhance the capacity of the school‑based provider network and to ensure coordinated care.
  • Participate in professional development and continuing education to enhance skills and knowledge and to expand resource network.
• Data Collection and Monitoring
  • Collect and maintain accurate records of student participation, progress, and outcomes.
  • Ensure compliance with HIPAA and privacy regulations in data collection and sharing.
  • Assist in preparing regular reports for program evaluation and compliance with grant requirements.

• Expand access to high‑quality behavioral health and related services for students and families, especially the undocumented immigrant community.
• Improve student well‑being and readiness to learn by addressing mental health and substance use challenges.
• Foster positive classroom environments through increased use of positive strategies and improved school climate.
• Reduce substance use, addictions, and overdoses among students by expanding access to high‑quality behavioral health and related services.
• Enhance the capacity of the school‑based workforce with trained professionals and specialists in school settings to meet the needs of students in PGCPS.

• Bachelor's degree in counseling, social work, or a related field.
• Enrollment in an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAC) certification program or addictions training.
• Experience working with youth in SUD treatment.
• Knowledge of trauma‑informed care and evidence‑based treatment models (SBIRT and A‑CRA).
• Fluent in Spanish and/or committed to providing culturally responsive and evidence‑based care.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with adolescents, families, and school staff.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and work collaboratively in a school‑based setting.