About Job

The Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC I) provides direct clinical support to individuals living with co-occurring substance use and mental health needs. Using a trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and person-centered approach, the counselor supports participants in implementing strategies to maintain safety, connecting with appropriate treatment resources as desired, strengthening coping skills, managing crises, pursuing goals as indicated in treatment plans, etc. The counselor will complete comprehensive assessments, risk assessments, and safety plans, and work collaboratively with participants to develop and implement Individualized Action Plans. The counselor will engage in care coordination with other MHA providers and external agencies. The counselor will complete documentation thoroughly and in a timely manner.

Clinical Documentation and Assessment

Complete all documentation required for program enrollment and continued participation, including intake assessments, annual assessments, and updates.
Develop and update Individualized Action Plans (IAPs) in partnership with participants, Housing First team, and in alignment with DMH guidelines.
Ensure all documentation is timely, accurate, and compliant with agency and funder standards.

Care Coordination and Community Collaboration

Act as the primary liaison for participants accessing psychiatric and substance use treatment.
Coordinate with internal team members and external providers to ensure continuity and integration of care.
Support warm handoffs and transitions between providers or levels of care.
Attend multidisciplinary team meetings and case conferences as needed.

Participant Engagement and Support

Use Motivational Interviewing techniques to engage participants and support them in identifying and pursuing goals
Provide support using a trauma-informed, person-centered, and harm-reduction approach.
Monitor participants’ progress and provide ongoing encouragement, education, and advocacy.
Empower participants to make informed decisions about their care and recovery path.

Teamwork and Professional Development

Collaborate effectively with case managers, supervisors, and other team members.
Participate in individual supervision, team meetings, and required trainings.
Maintain professional licensure and seek opportunities for continued learning and development.
Foster a positive, respectful, and inclusive program culture.

Technology and Communication

Utilize electronic health records and agency communication systems.
Check and respond to email regularly.
Accurately report incidents, progress, and updates in a timely manner.

Safety and Compliance

Promote a safe work environment and adhere to all safety policies.
Report any concerns, incidents, or safety issues promptly according to policy.
Follow all documentation and confidentiality standards set by MHA and DMH.

Requirements

Candidate must be Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC I)
Minimum 2 years of experience working with individuals with co-occurring disorders and housing instability.
Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and adequate auto insurance.
Must be at least 21 years of age and able to obtain/maintain CPR and First Aid certifications.

Preferred Qualifications

Bilingual/bicultural candidates preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Must be able to speak, hear, and smell; occasionally kneel, sit, push, pull, climb, and lift up to 40 lbs.
Frequent use of hands/fingers for typing and writing.
Must be able to visually inspect and perceive surroundings.
May be exposed to weather, vehicles, blood-borne pathogens, and moderate noise.
Majority of work occurs indoors, with frequent community-based responsibilities.

This job description is intended to convey essential information about the scope of work and responsibilities associated with the position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions.

Benefits