POSITION SUMMARY:
The alcohol and substance abuse counselor have received specialized training in alcoholism and substance abuse and is credentialed by the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services. The counselor works cooperatively with the full clinic staff coordinating patient treatment with consulting physicians, vocational rehabilitation counselors, administrative staff, social work staff and other counselors.
Alcohol and substance abuse counseling means the direct application to alcoholics and other substance abusers, and related persons of the professional counseling techniques of evaluation, intervention, education, treatment and referral as specifically adapted, based on research and clinical experience to the special needs and characteristic of persons suffering from alcoholism, substance abuse, or alcohol abuse and their significant others.
The alcohol and substance abuse counselor will work under clinical supervision which means the process of on the job teaching, training, guidance, direction and review of the patient care activity of an alcoholism and substance abuse counselor by a qualified health professional appointed by the Director to monitor the counselors development and use of clinical knowledge and skill relevant to the professional practice of alcohol and substance counseling.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Crisis intervention, patient intake and orientation
2. Alcohol and substance abuse education
3. Individual and group counseling, including involvement of family and significant other.
4. Prevention outreach and case finding
5. Development of and implementation of individualized goals, objectives and aftercare.
6. Progress review of individualized goals, objectives and revision of plans based on progress or lack thereof.
7. Continuous evaluation of patients including evaluation as part of a treatment team.
8. Preparations of reports and necessary correspondence and maintenance of clinical reports.
9. Discharge planning and referral procedures
10. Coordination and consultation with other programs and services on behalf of patients, in accordance with applicable federal and state confidentiality laws.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIRED:
1. Communication skills, verbal and written
2. Knowledge of alcohol and other drug use, alcohol use and alcoholism and their applications to alcohol and substance abuse counseling.
3. Skill in making alcohol and substance abuse related assessments and evaluations which consider medical, psychological and social needs of patients.
4. Skilled in developing individualized, comprehensive alcoholism treatment and rehabilitation plans for patients.
5. Knowledge of and ability to provide information and referral services that are appropriate and accessible.
6. Knowledge of and skill in delivering alcohol and substance abuse counseling as a treatment modality.
7. Knowledge of and adherence to the Canon of Ethical Principles.
QUALIFICATIONS:
1. Minimum requirement of high school diploma/G.E.D. and completion of recognized training course for alcoholism and substance abuse counselors (350 hours).
2. Recognizing and accepting the concept of alcoholism and addiction as a disease entity.
3. Personal flexibility of working hours.
4. Ability to function as a team member and accept authority as indicated on organizational chart.
5. Willingness to participate in program of continued professional development.
6. Employee must have obtained a CASAC.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Ability to plan, lead and participate in a variety of physical activities. May be required to drive between YMCA facilities and to other training or meeting in various locations. May require lifting up to 25lbs.
HOW TO APPLY:
For immediate consideration, please email a resume if available and/or a cover letter to Jessica Kreamer at Jessica.kreamer@ymcali.org Cynthia Lacey at Cynthia.Lacey@ymcali.org.