Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) - Residential Services

Description

The Bridge offers supportive housing and behavioral health services to vulnerable New Yorkers facing behavioral health and substance use challenges. We provide individuals with the tools they need to pursue their dreams and live meaningful lives. The Bridge envisions a world where adults experiencing serious mental illness can live and thrive within their communities. As a recognized leader in developing and operating supportive housing and community-based programs, The Bridge has 70 years of experience helping New Yorkers with mental illness, including those affected by homelessness, incarceration, and institutionalization.

Scope of Position: Under the direction of the Program Director, and in compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and agency policies, the Substance Abuse Specialist (CASAC Counselor) provides support to adults with substance use disorders and/or mental health diagnoses. This role involves respecting the rights of program participants, maintaining professional boundaries, and delivering services aimed at helping individuals achieve their personalized recovery goals. The Substance Abuse Specialist works within ethical guidelines to ensure that each participant receives the appropriate care and support for their recovery journey.

Essential Position Functions

• Complete Substance Abuse Assessments every six months or as needed/requested to identify immediate needs and document client progress.
• Provide individual counseling and case management services to identified tenants at least once per month, assess service needs, and assist with relapse prevention and referrals.
• Assist Case Managers with managing caseloads, updating Service Plans, Psychosocials, and Assessments as needed/requested.
• Facilitate on-site Substance Abuse, MICA, and other relevant recovery groups to support education and relapse prevention.
• Identify appropriate community resources, understand their functions, and build relationships to aid in the referral process.
• Escort tenants to medical, psychiatric, or substance abuse-related appointments using public transportation.
• Serve as a liaison between The Bridge and providers to coordinate substance abuse and MICA services with outside agencies.
• Work with the Case Management team to identify goals/objectives and input them into the AWARDS database.
• Provide Crisis Intervention, immediately report serious incidents/concerns, and complete incident reports. Conduct searches for missing consumers and file police reports when necessary.
• Assist with quarterly apartment inspections, complete work orders, and coordinate with other departments to address deficiencies in a timely manner.
• Ensure timely documentation for every client contact as per agency policy. Progress Notes and Group Notes must be completed within 24-48 hours.
• Attend staff meetings, participate in case conferences, supervision, and training as required. Provide weekly updates to clinical staff.
• Perform required administrative duties.
• Report serious incidents or sensitive situations to supervisors immediately. Complete incident reports and file missing person reports as needed.
• Provide an environment where clients feel comfortable accessing services 24/7. All shifts in residential settings are "awake" shifts, requiring staff to remain alert and available for client matters.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

• BA/CASAC preferred; experience working with substance abuse is required.
• Excellent English language skills (both verbal and written).
• Preferred knowledge of AWARDS and the internet.
• Willingness to learn and participate in Trauma-Informed trainings and interventions.
• Excellent time management skills; stress-resistant and flexible.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• A team player, open to feedback, and creative.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Willingness to perform CPR, First Aid, AED, CPI, and Naloxone administration.
• Preferred experience with mental health and significant experience in crisis intervention and managing trauma-triggered behaviors.
• Experience with Motivational Interviewing and Seeking Safety is highly preferred.
  
  

The Bridge Inc. is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer