Substance Use Counselor
$68,578–$74,298 year
On-siteLong Island City, New York, United States
Job Summary
Conduct up to four evidence-based therapeutic groups daily on Rikers Island, including 12-step meetings, harm reduction education, and standalone supportive sessions. Screen non-classed individuals using tools like SMAST and DAST-10 to identify substance use disorders, then refer qualifying clients for higher-level assessment. Document client-centered, strengths-based services and complete contact notes within 48 hours of interaction. Work 35 hours weekly, Monday through Friday, with possible rotational Saturdays, while maintaining clinical communication with supervisors and external agencies. Provide certificates upon group completion and participate in case conferences and professional development.
Required Qualifications
- CASAC-T/CASAC
- demonstrated experience with counseling individuals with substance use histories
- Ability to work independently with off-site supervision
- Excellent client-engagement and counseling skills
- Excellent clinical documentation and time management skills
- Strong computer skills, particularly with reporting in electronic health records (EHRs)
- Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time
- Ability to travel corridors and walk up and down stairs frequently
- Ability to remove yourself expeditiously if any risks are presented
- Must be available for rotating Saturdays
- Must be willing to travel between DOC facilities, if necessary
Desired Qualifications
- experience in dealing with either psychiatric issues, trauma or incarceration
- practical experience treating individuals with SUD and co-occurring diagnoses through evidence-based individual and group therapy practices
- Deep awareness of the principles and techniques of motivational interviewing (MI)
- incorporation of a harm reduction approach
- demonstrated a commitment to using respectful, constructive means of communication when interacting with clients and colleagues
- utilize a strengths-based, person-centered approach
- endorse the concept of looking for the best in people, rather than judging them by their worst decision(s)
- understanding of all substance use disorder (SUD) diagnostic categories
- knowledge of, and experience with, the administration of evidence-based screening tools (such as SMAST, DAST-10, PCL-9)
- Bilingual Spanish-speaking
- Relevant personal experience
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