Primary Addiction Counselor

Position Title: Primary Addiction Counselor (PAC)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Supervisor: Clinical Supervisor
Positions Supervised: None
Anticipated Hours: Full-Time: 35 hours per week
Wage: TBD depending on education, experience and QHP status
Job Summary:
The PAC is responsible for positive, collaborative relationships with clients, their families, the CARS’
team and community partners. The PAC provides research-based assessment, counseling (individual,
family and group), crisis and clinical interventions, and case management services, including discharge
planning, while assuring regulatory compliance.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in human services or related field; or equivalent combination of education and SUD
experience total 4 years. QHP status required.
Desired Qualifications:
Master’s degree with 4+ years SUD experience.
Knowledge:
A basic understanding of addiction and recovery issues. Knowledge of basic counseling techniques,
including treatment planning is essential. Working knowledge of motivational interviewing, cognitive
behavioral therapy, strength-based principle of treatment and an individualized approach to treatment is
desired.
Skills:
Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to multi-task, crisis intervention skills, ability to maintain healthy &
appropriate treatment boundaries, utilization of EMR software for documentation and communication,
ability to be a proactive team player, and able to represent the agency well.
Key Tasks:
1. Demonstrated understanding of the role of the Addiction Counselor at CARS and demonstrated skills
in the competencies of the Addiction Counselor as defined by the 12-core functions and global
criteria. Includes adherence to all NYS-OASAS and CARS requirements and regulations concerning
client care and chart compliance.
2. Fidelity to the treatment model at CARS with special emphasis on adherence to the Matrix Model.
Includes facilitation of psycho-educational groups ranging from small group coaching to didactic
lessons. Implement existing curricula to engage clients in goal setting and support individual
treatment planning activities.
3. Act as coach and teacher while assisting clients in problem solving and developing coping skills to
address addictive and unhealthy behavior patterns.
4. Assure clients’ appropriate utilization of all program services toward their treatment goals. Possess a
pervasive awareness that our clients are customers and free to make care choices.
lkw/tm 12.1.21 + Job Description is a guideline not an absolute
5. Demonstrated skills at being an outstanding team member. This includes conduct that always
recognizes and supports the primacy of team needs, agendas and priorities over individual ones.
Additional Tasks & Responsibilities:
1. Conduct individual, group, and family counseling sessions.
2. Complete necessary monthly reporting on time.
3. Document group attendance in a timely manner.
4. Monitor and maintain the safety and security of the clients and the facility.
5. Address addictive and unhealthy behaviors with the most appropriate clinical intervention per
agency guidelines.
6. Document activities in accordance with agency practices.
7. Maintain confidentiality, as per agency practices and confidentiality law.
8. Be on time with client administrative paperwork activities including but not limited to:
Assessments, Treatment Plans, and Discharge Summaries.
9. Effectively communicate with the team and community partners regarding client needs.
10. Planning and conducting special activities, as assigned