Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Responsibilities

The Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor will work with individuals facing addiction to evaluate their strengths and needs, creating a personalized treatment plan. The counselor will provide ongoing support and counseling throughout the recovery process. They will also collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to address clients’ physical, psychological, and social needs, with the goal of promoting successful recovery. Addition, you will:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine clients’ substance use history, mental health status and treatment needs.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment findings, client goals, and evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate with clients to set achievable goals and milestones for their recovery.
• Provide individual and group counseling sessions to address clients’ substance use issues.
• Make referrals as needed for mental health concerns and medication assisted treatment.
• Utilize various therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), to support clients in achieving sobriety and maintaining recovery.
• Educate clients and their families about the nature of addiction, coping strategies, and relapse prevention techniques.
• Offer ongoing support and encouragement to clients throughout the recovery process, including crisis intervention as needed.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, including assessment results, treatment plans, progress notes, ASAM, and discharge summaries.
• Prepare reports and communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals involved in the client’s care.
• Advocate for clients’ needs within the healthcare system and community resources, ensuring access to appropriate services and support.
• Collaborate with external agencies and organizations that facilitate referrals for additional services, such as medical treatment, housing assistance, or vocational rehabilitation services.
• Facilitate the 12-Hour Drinking and Driving Course either in person, remotely, including day, evening and weekend hours.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree highly preferred in a relevant area of study such as Counseling, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Human Services, or Criminal Justice.

Experience:

• Prior experience in the treatment of clients with substance abuse/chemical dependency
  issues and an understanding of psychological and social work interventions is preferred. 
• Experience working in substance abuse treatment settings, such as detoxification
  centers, residential facilities, outpatient clinics, or community-based programs is preferred. 
• Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems and proficiency in computer
  applications is preferred. 

Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of addiction treatment principles, evidenced-based practices, and ethical
  guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to establish rapport with diverse populations.
• Excellent communication and counseling skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and adherence to ethical standards
  of practice.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) as described by the Iowa Board of Substance Abuse Certification is required.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package for full-time employees working 30+ hours a week:

• Health insurance (up to 79% employer paid)
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k) with profit sharing and employer match 
• Paid time off (accrue up to 80 hours during first year of employment; increases based on tenure with agency)
• 10 paid holidays
• 80 hours sick time
• 2 wellness days
• Staff development and training
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility for federal student loans
• Employer paid CEU's through Relias
• PerkSpot- employee discount program
• Employee assistance program
• Advancement opportunities

About the Organization

Hillcrest is a non-profit organization that assists adults and children in need of help. Every day, Hillcrest builds confidence in hundreds of people and families. We strive to be a leading provider in supporting brain health and wellness.  We’re a place where compassion is commonplace. Where our passion soars and faith restores.

**COVID-19 Vaccination Not Required*