Substance Abuse Counselor

Position Description

Position:           Substance Abuse Group Counselor
Department:      J Bar J Boys Ranch
Reports to:        Treatment Manager, Program Director

Position Summary:

The Substance Abuse Group Counselor serves as the primary facilitator of therapeutic and educational addictions groups for J Bar J Boys Ranch. This position is a part-time, evening position. 

Duties:

  • Facilitate weekly group counseling related to substance abuse for high risk adolescent clients.
  • Create a positive atmosphere and a safe place for open discussion for clients recovering from drug and alcohol addictions.
  • Provide timely and accurate documentation, including progress notes, in compliance with agency and state standards. Compose meaningful individual case notes for each client, ensuring the utilization of evidence based practices.
  • Facilitate recovery groups utilizing evidence based-practices/programming (SMART Recovery – or similar curriculum).
  • Maintain professional, ethical, and behavioral standards of conduct.

Qualifications:

Knowledge, Skills and Ability:

  • Ability to effectively facilitate groups.
  • Ability to develop an environment where youth can succeed.
  • Ability to accurately document group notes in client files.
  • Ability to provide crisis intervention and remain calm and in control during crisis situations.
  • Ability to work independently and cooperatively as a team. Demonstrate strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Knowledge and ability to use counseling techniques to educate and motivate clients.
  • Knowledge of evidence based programming, to include: SMART Recovery or similar curriculum.
  • Ability to interface effectively with other staff, referring agencies, parents, schools and others and maintain a professional demeanor at all times.

Experience and Training:

  • Relevant training and experience with addictions.
  • Must be certified CADC – 1 certification or the ability to become certified within six (6) months of hire.
  • A minimum of two (2) years of experience working with youth in the addictions field.