SUD Counselor

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title : SUD Counselor – Outpatient SUD

Location : Van Nuys, CA

Department : Outpatient Services

Reports To : Clinical Program Director

Status : Full-Time | Non-Exempt

Salary : $25 - $30 (Dependent on Registration or Certification; and experience)

SUMMARY OF POSITION

Reporting to the Clinical Program Director, the SUD Counselor provides individual and group counseling, education, and crisis intervention, as well as overall management of the patient’s episode, to patients engaged in outpatient substance use disorder treatment services. The Counselor is responsible for assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating therapeutic interventions consistent with evidence-based practices, while ensuring compliance with county, state, and federal requirements. This role requires a patient-centered approach that promotes recovery, resilience, and long-term wellness.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Clinical Counseling

• Conduct individual, group, and family counseling sessions using evidence-based modalities such as CBT, MI, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Complete comprehensive assessments utilizing ASAM criteria and develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with patients.
• Provide crisis intervention, psychoeducation, and relapse-prevention planning tailored to the patient's needs.
• Support patients in building coping strategies, self-efficacy, and relapse prevention skills.
• Facilitate group sessions addressing addiction, co-occurring disorders, life skills, and recovery supports.

Care Planning

Documentation & Compliance

Special Populations

EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

Current registration or certification as a SUD counselor with a DHCS-recognized certifying body (CCAPP, CADTP, or CAADE).

Minimum of 2 years of counseling experience in an outpatient or residential SUD treatment setting preferred.

Knowledge of ASAM criteria, DSM-5 substance-related diagnoses, and evidence-based treatment practices.

Experience providing group and individual counseling services.

Familiarity with Medi-Cal and county-funded treatment systems.

Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

Culturally competent and trauma-informed approach to care.

Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems.

REQUIREMENTS

Must pass DOJ and FBI background clearance.

Valid California Driver’s License and reliable transportation may be required.

TB clearance.

Driving record acceptable for agency insurance coverage.

Fire and Safety Training

First Aid and CPR Certification

Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) Training.

Training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Interventions (CBI), Trauma-Informed Care, and Harm Reduction.

BENEFITS

100% Employer-Paid Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance, with option to buy-up to Kaiser or Anthem PPO

Incentive Compensation Program for exceeding productivity benchmarks

Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick Leave, and 13 paid Holidays

Professional development and continuing education support

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, the employee must be able to perform all essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Approximately 50% of the time is spent sitting, with frequent walking, standing, and bending. Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Must be able to lift and / or move unassisted up to 20 pounds.

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