Substance Abuse Counselor

Class Concept

Employees are assigned to state facilities such as an area alcohol and drug abuse treatment center (ADATC), a state psychiatric hospital, a state developmental center, or a correctional facility. Employees assist clients with substance use disorders with development of cognitive, behavioral, social, and vocational skills through the use of counseling, behavioral and case management interventions. Work involves screening clients who are referred for addictive and/or psychological disorders. Employees use standardized tools to screen clients, conduct intakes and orientations, and complete assessments (social, educational, cultural, psychological, physical, career, and familial histories). Employees provide behavioral intervention therapy related to criminal related behaviors and attitudes for those clients involved with the criminal justice system. Employees may serve as an interface between mental health providers while continuing to provide substance use disorder counseling. Employees may collaborate with other healthcare professionals on more complex cases to facilitate continuity of care.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge and application of the substance use disorder processes, including psychological and physical withdrawal.
• Working knowledge of psycho pharmacy and drug interactions.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology, disease processes, and treatment related to decisions regarding clinical interventions and appropriate therapies based on medical and psychological diagnoses.
• Thorough knowledge and application of therapeutic approaches including group dynamics, crisis interventions, and family therapy, and behavioral intervention therapy for substance use disorders.
• Thorough knowledge of community support groups and resources for individuals with substance use disorders.
• Skill in evaluating and screening clients for appropriate treatment and referrals.
• Skill in formulating clear, goal oriented treatment plans, and concise record documentation.
• Skill in developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships to include effective oral and written communication with team members, clients, and other healthcare providers.
• Ability to recognize co-occurring disorders and make appropriate mental health referrals while actively continues providing substance use disorder counseling. Ability to serve as a resource/peer consultant.

Minimum Education and Experience

High school or General Educational Development (GED) diploma or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

Credentialed as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), or as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist – Associate (LCAS-A), or in an equivalent credential from a governing authority recognized by the NC Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board.