Counselor I

Under the direct supervision of Regional Programs Director, the SUD Counselor I provides responsible individual and group counseling services to clients. trains, orients; provides instruction to clients and community on treatment of substance abuse and conducts orientations about substance abuse programs; and performs related work as required. Ensures proper and ethical documentation for the alcohol and drug treatment program according to Champions standards. Facilitate client's treatment issues and progress while guiding them through each phase of treatment, conducting process groups, education, behavioral interventions, and working in coordination with shared agencies (i.e. medical, mental health, probation and parole, etc.) This SUD Counselor I will operate in a multi-disciplinary team and will work independently but consult on all cases with their supervisor.

• Complies with all program policies and procedures, including State/Federal or Certification/Licensure requirements.
• Maintains a caseload of clientele and provide active and comprehensive case management services. Ensuring all area needs are attended to (mental, substance abuse, social, physical, and family).
• Ensures appropriate and comprehensive documentation within an EHR system.
• Work collaboratively with Champions staff and referring parties and service providers.
• Participates in staff meetings, to address client needs, program issues, and assist in the integration of services for clientele.
• Facilitate Psychoeducational groups and classes, as deemed appropriate by management.
• Provides integration of all service divisions of the program, specifically acting as a bridge between disciplines such as mental health and probation.
• Develops and maintains cooperative work relationships with community agencies and partners, including client connections to outside agencies (i.e., court hearings, open CPS cases and requirements, etc.)
• Determines appropriate services available through the Parenting program and/or referral to other community agencies.
• Complete intakes and eligibilities for potential clientele and verify completeness and accuracy of documents.
• Serve as the main point of contact for all clients and relay client needs to the appropriate channels.
• Participate in applicable meetings, trainings, conferences, etc. as required both internally and externally.
• Remains culturally sensitive and respectful in all client and staff interactions.
• Adheres to all client confidentiality requirements and standards, including updates of the shared Release of Information (ROI) to ensure that information is current and accurate.
• Comfortable performing various projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities.
• Ability to get along with diverse personalities, understanding, mature, and flexible.
• Possess strong judgment, problem-solving and reasoning abilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• SUD certified from a recognized certifying organization, agency, or other Addiction Counseling Certification (CCAPP, CCAADE, or CADTP) approved by the DHCS with a minimum of 2 years direct substance use disorder counseling experience.
• BA in social work, psychology, or related field + 2 years’ mental health experience; or AA in social work, psychology, or related field + 3 years’ mental health experience and/or other relevant degree(s) and related experience may be substituted.
• Drug and Alcohol or related certification and American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) Trained.
• Must have valid California Class C Driver’s License; maintain a good safety record (verified by DMV at hire and periodically) and a reliable vehicle; proof of comprehensive auto insurance if driving personal vehicle. Must be able to drive (when needed) their own vehicle for business purposes to other program locations in Tulare County.
• Required to submit to a drug screen at the discretion of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office.
• Must pass background check (Live Scan Fingerprint - MANDATORY).
• Must maintain a waiver to provide treatment services with the CDCR STOP Program during employment with Champions.
• Must have TB clearance within 60 days prior to hire (MANDATORY).
• First Aid and CPR certifications obtained within 30 days of employment and maintain current thereafter.
• Ability to understand and interpret information, follow instructions, and manage workflow.
• Basic knowledge and skills with computer keyboarding and computer programs. Advanced office management practices and operating procedures.
• Able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment, apply professional judgement in solving difficult issues, and to communicate in a clear, precise, and professional manner. Strong Interpersonal skills: ability to work effectively with people in a constructive manner within a community-based treatment setting.
• Must have flexibility to work weekend hours during scheduled client activities.
• Applicant must submit appropriate background check clearance and be able to pass Tulare County Sheriff jail clearance to provide in custody services for coverage needs.
• Recovering individuals must have a minimum two years clean, sober, and abstinent to be considered for employment.
• Must be free of probation or parole supervision for a minimum of one year
• Bilingual is preferred.