Job Description

The Substance Abuse Counselor provides counseling and case management to clients receiving services in the Bayview methadone clinic. The position meets regularly with clinic patients, and supports them to maintain sobriety and achieve healthy, fulfilling lives. The SUDS counselor provides therapeutic support and guidance to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. This role involves assessing clients' needs, developing treatment plans, conducting counseling sessions, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. The Substance Abuse Counselor is a full-time, non-exempt position, reporting directly to the Assistant Director of Substance Abuse Services (SUDS).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct assessments and maintain a caseload of clients in the methadone clinic.
• Develop treatment plans and monitor progress toward achieving them.
• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions.
• Provide case management and other referral services as needed.
• Maintaining accurate clinical records, and enter data in Methasoft and other databases.
• Maintain an average productivity of at least 60% billable hours per Medi-Cal/CalAIMS standards.
• Other duties as assigned by the Assistant Director of SUDS.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements and Experience:

• Substance Abuse Counselor Certification, with experience working with individuals who are addicted to alcohol or other drugs.
• At least two years’ experience providing substance abuse treatment, case management, and/or experience in a behavioral health setting.
• Skilled in motivational enhancement therapy.
• Experience with Methasoft Data entry and Medi-Cal services preferred.
• Ability to maintain records and satisfy deadlines with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good knowledge of community resources for referrals, i.e. housing, medical treatment, education, employment opportunities, and legal assistance.
• Passion and dedication for serving underserved individuals.
• Ability to work in a collegial, team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.
• Certification: State licensure or certification as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor (e.g., CADC, LADC).
• Experience: Previous experience in addiction counseling or mental health services.
• Skills: Strong communication, empathy, crisis intervention, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with evidence-based treatment approaches and substance use disorder recovery models.
• Can demonstrate a commitment to professional development and enhance candidacy.
• Equivalent work experience acceptable in lieu of degree with a minimum of three (3) year direct experience in case management or related field.
• Familiarity with the philosophy and approach of Harm Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, and Housing First Approach to care for homeless population.
• Electronic data collection, input, and information maintenance.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; proven ability to collaborate with other agencies.
• Understanding of the issues faced by disenfranchised populations.
• Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Clinical supervision toward licensure is available for those on a BBS licensure track if selected.
• Must be computer literate.
• Must have excellent verbal communication skills.
• Be committed to the mission of Bayview Hunters Point Foundation and possess a good working knowledge of and sensitivity. to individuals with substance abuse and/or mental health issues such as PTSD, psychosis, borderline behaviors, bipolar, etc.
• Clinical supervision toward licensure is available for those on a BBS licensure track if selected.
• Designing, planning, and implementing program services, with an emphasis on building accountability for program participants as they strive to move forward in their lives.
• Ensure the health and safety of program participants’ and thorough management of the physical plant; this includes safety, hygiene, appearance, and overall aesthetic of the facility.
• Prepared to respond to emergencies with clear thinking and swift action.
• Be committed to the mission of Bayview Hunters Point Foundation and possess a good working knowledge of and sensitivity to individuals with substance abuse and/or mental health issues such as PTSD, psychosis, borderline behaviors, bipolar, etc.

Physical & Additional Requirements:

• Regular and reliable job attendance.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in computer skills, including knowledge of Microsoft Office, Avatar, internet browsers, etc.
• Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships.
• Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions.
• Ability to work effectively in an open office environment surrounded by moderate noise and distractions.
• Frequently required to sit; occasionally walk and stand; travel from the building to other sites.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee must be able to meet deadlines with time constraints.
• May be asked to occasionally work irregular or extended hours while performing job duties.
• Able to meet required state, federal, local and BVHP standards.
• Live Scan fingerprinting and TB clearance as well as any other medical vaccinations may be required.