Drug & Alcohol Counselor

Salary: $23.00 - $25.00

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Drug/Alcohol Counselor to join our team. The ideal candidate will work closely with individuals diagnosed with chronic schizophrenia; many of whom also experience substance use disorders. This role will provide assessment, counseling, and support to clients in managing both their mental health and substance abuse issues. You will help clients develop coping strategies, life skills, and engage in the therapeutic process, guiding them toward self-sufficiency and improved overall well-being.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of clients substance use and mental health histories.
• Provide individual and group counseling to clients with substance use disorders in addition to chronic schizophrenia.
• Collaborate with the treatment team on treatment plans, tailored to each clients unique needs.
• Facilitate group therapy sessions focused on drug and alcohol recovery, relapse prevention, and life skills development.
• Offer crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques when needed.
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams including psychiatrists, case managers, and other counselors to coordinate comprehensive care.
• Maintain accurate and timely client documentation in accordance with program and regulatory requirements.
• Provide education and resources related to substance abuse recovery, coping mechanisms, and mental health management.
• Advocate for clients and assist in linking them with community resources to enhance their recovery process.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor or Masters degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related field.
• Certification as a Drug/Alcohol Counselor (e.g., CADC, CCAPP) required.
• Experience working with individuals diagnosed with chronic mental health conditions, particularly schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
• Knowledge of recovery models and best practices for substance use treatment.
• Strong understanding of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health services and resources.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Flexibility to adjust to the unique needs of clients in a dynamic outpatient setting.
• Bilingual Spanish-speaking preferred, but not required.