SUD Counselor/MH Trainee

Job Overview
Our Drug and Alcohol Counselors provide school-based support to high school students across Tulare County who are experiencing challenges related to substance use. Working closely with school site administrators and educational staff, counselors offer a range of services including individual and group counseling, education on the risks of drug and alcohol use, early intervention strategies, and support in building healthy coping mechanisms.

Duties of a Drug and Alcohol Counselor (High School Setting – Tulare County)

Provide individual and group counseling to students struggling with drug or alcohol use.
Conduct screenings and assessments to evaluate the level of substance use and determine appropriate interventions.
Develop and implement individualized treatment plans focused on harm reduction, abstinence, and recovery goals.
Deliver substance use prevention and education workshops tailored to adolescents.
Collaborate with school administrators, teachers, and staff to support student success and ensure continuity of care.
Maintain accurate and confidential case notes and records in accordance with school and agency policies.
Participate in school site meetings, student support teams (SSTs), and multidisciplinary case reviews as needed.
Provide referrals to community-based services for students requiring more intensive treatment.
Support students through crisis situations and connect them to appropriate resources.
Adhere to the school calendar, including site-specific schedules, holidays, and vacation breaks.
Duties of a Mental Health Trainee (High School Setting – Tulare County)

Provide supervised individual and group therapy sessions to students experiencing mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and adjustment issues.
Assist in conducting biopsychosocial assessments and developing treatment plans under supervision.
Use evidence-based practices to support students’ emotional and behavioral well-being.
Collaborate with supervising clinicians, school site teams, and families to coordinate care and ensure student needs are met.
Engage in regular clinical supervision to enhance skills and ensure ethical, culturally responsive practices.
Maintain up-to-date and confidential documentation of services provided.
Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
Respond to student crises in collaboration with school site staff and supervisors.
Provide outreach and psychoeducation to the school community around mental health topics.
Observe the same school schedule, including holidays and time off, to ensure accessibility and consistency for students.
Qualifications

Qualifications of a Drug and Alcohol Counselor in CaliforniaMinimum Requirements:
Education
Completion of a state-approved Alcohol and Drug Studies (ADS) program or equivalent coursework (typically includes 315 hours of education in addiction counseling topics).
Registration with a Certifying Organization
Must be registered with a California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS)-approved certifying organization such as:
CADTP (California Association of DUI Treatment Programs)
CCAPP (California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals)
CAADE (California Association for Alcohol/Drug Educators)
Supervised Experience (which you would get with our organization on a weekly basis).
Certification
Must obtain full certification within 5 years of initial registration. Certification is awarded after completing education, supervised experience, and passing a certifying exam.
Qualifications of a Mental Health or Social Work Trainee (California)

Enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s level) in counseling, marriage and family therapy, clinical psychology, or social work at an accredited institution.
Has not yet obtained a graduate degree but is completing required practicum or fieldwork hours as part of their program.
Must be under direct supervision of a licensed mental health professional (e.g., LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, or licensed psychologist, which we would provide at our organization).
Ability to provide therapeutic services (individual, group, or family) under supervision.
Must adhere to all laws, ethical guidelines, and confidentiality standards outlined by the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) and their academic institution.
Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills.
Bilingual ability often preferred depending on the community served.
TB clearance and background check clearance (especially in school or youth-serving settings).
Or must be an Associate Clinicial Counselor, Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, or an Associate Clinicial Social Worker.