Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor

The Substance Abuse Counselor reports directly to the Program Coordinator or the Director of Behavioral Health at the U.S.VETS site. This individual is responsible for assessing and providing counseling to individuals with emotional, mental, or substance abuse difficulties, including the use of tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs.

FLSA Classification:
Non-Exempt

• Interview and assess clients in the program, review records and confer with other professionals.
• Conduct individual or group sessions to aid client’s to cope with addiction issues.
• Counsel and assist clients with understanding the addiction process utilizing harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and other therapeutic models.
• Monitor, evaluate and record client progress achieving treatment goals.
• Collaborate with Case Managers to coordinate and create treatment plans.
• Develop clients’ treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories
• Modify treatment plans based upon client’s progress.
• Provide referrals to community resources
• Maintain confidential and thorough client records.
• Assists with toxicology testing if needed
• Responsible for implementation of all safety and emergency procedures
• Conducts bed checks, room inspections and health and safety checks to ensure a safe and hazardless environment
• Conducts various administrative duties to include documentation of bed check, inspections, incident reports, client logs, etc.
• May provide daily shuttle van transportation to community agencies such as VA, DMV, Social Security, etc.
• Assists in the delivery of basic services (such as shelter, food, hygiene, etc.) to clients served at the facility
• Ensures harmonious atmosphere at the facility by maintaining communication with clinical staff and maintaining a therapeutic milieu
• Complete and maintain accurate records and reports regarding the clients histories, progress, services provided and other required information
• Counsel clients individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life, or making changes.
• Intervene as an advocate for clients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
• Attend training sessions to increase knowledge and skills
• Participate in case conferences or staff meetings
• Performs other duties as required

• California Certification for alcohol and drug counseling through California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educator – CAADE, California Association of DUI Treatment Programs – CADTP, California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals – CCAPP, California Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors – CAADAC, or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor – CADC is required
• Minimum of one year experience providing counseling
• Knowledge of principles, procedures, and methods for rehabilitation of mental & physical dysfunctions
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Professional manner and appearance
• Ability to work independently and within a team
• Ability to take direction
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups of clients, staff and community members
• Strong desire to help veterans suffering from drug or alcohol abuse problems
• Ability to identify and maintain professional boundaries
• Computer proficient in Microsoft Office and Internet

• Experience working with mental health homeless or veterans preferred
• Bachelors or Master’s in Social Service or related field preferred
• Valid driver’s license preferred. If driving company vehicles, must meet company insurance requirements and complete a provided driver training course

• Conduct comprehensive substance use assessments and clinical evaluations
• Develop,…