Behavioral Health Care Counselor I/II (Substance Use Disorders)

***This position is a Substance Use Disorder Counselor I/II in the Behavioral Health Department***

DEFINITION

Under supervision performs a variety of behavioral health casework activities such as assessment, referral, intervention, and treatment; coordinates programs with schools, community organizations, and local activities; conducts individual and group counseling and formulates treatment/recovery plans; and does related work as required.

Essential Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Alcohol and drug treatment and prevention methods and issues.
• Principles, procedures, techniques and trends in behavioral health counseling.
• Community organizations and resources.
• Interviewing, counseling, and evaluation techniques.
• Principles of individual and group behavior.
• Crisis intervention counseling.

Ability to:

• Interpret, apply, and explain Federal and State laws, rules, and regulations governing behavioral health programs and services.
• Make public speaking presentation before groups and organizations.
• Analyze situations and behavior patterns, adopting appropriate courses of action.
• Effectively counsel clients, groups and families.
• Communicate effectively in writing.
• Maintain the confidentiality of case information.
• Maintain composure in emergency and stressful situations.
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the public and other County staff.
• Effectively represent County Behavioral Health Program and Services with the public, and community organizations.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
• Perform alcohol and drug testing procedures.

Training and Experience

Program staff who provide counseling services shall be certified, or registered to obtain certification appropriate to the position held, within six (6) months of date of hire.

A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:

Education and Experience

Counselor I: 

1 -  Certification: Required, or BHD waiver with the certification being obtained within five (5) years of employment.

2 -  Work Experience: None

3 -  Education & Training: Completion of the certification program.  Counselor II:

1 -  Certification: Required.

2 -  Work Experience: 1 (one) year of experience in a substance abuse treatment program equivalent to the duties and responsibilities of an Amador County BHC Counselor I.

3 -  Education: A.A. degree or above preferred.

Note: Loss CAADAC or State equivalent registration shall result in termination or reassignment, if such a vacancy exists and the incumbent meets the minimum requirements for the vacant position.

Completion of major course work in psychology, social work, counseling or closely related field may substitute for one year of required experience.

It is the employee’s responsibility to maintain their certification for the continuing education units  (CEU’s), including renewal of the certification.