Position Overview
The Primary Counselor provides comprehensive clinical services to adults receiving inpatient treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders. This role is responsible for conducting assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, providing individual, group, and family counseling, and supporting clients through all phases of treatment and discharge planning.
The ideal candidate is compassionate, clinically skilled, and experienced in evidence-based treatment approaches that support long-term recovery, emotional wellness, and relapse prevention.
Primary Responsibilities
· Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, substance use evaluations, and mental health screenings using ASAM Criteria and DSM-5 guidelines.
· Develop individualized, recovery-oriented treatment plans with measurable goals and ongoing treatment reviews.
· Provide individual, group, and family therapy using evidence-based modalities including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care.
· Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic groups focused on addiction education, coping skills, mental health awareness, and relapse prevention.
· Assist clients in developing relapse-prevention strategies, coping skills, and aftercare plans to support sustained recovery after discharge.
· Coordinate care with medical, psychiatric, nursing, and case-management teams to ensure integrated treatment delivery.
· Initiate and maintain discharge planning, including referrals to outpatient treatment, recovery housing, support groups, and community resources.
· Respond appropriately to crisis situations, behavioral concerns, relapse risks, or client safety issues.
· Maintain accurate, timely clinical documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) in compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and agency standards.
· Participate in treatment-team meetings, supervision, trainings, and utilization-review processes.
Qualifications
· Master’s degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related behavioral health field preferred; active CADC/LCADC credential may be considered.
· Current New Jersey licensure or certification required (CADC, LCADC, LAC, LSW, LPC, or LCSW).
· CPR and First Aid certification required (or obtained within 90 days of hire).
· Minimum two (2) years of experience providing direct clinical services in substance use or co-occurring behavioral health settings required.
· Inpatient or residential treatment experience preferred.
· Candidates in recovery must maintain a minimum of two (2) years of continuous sobriety.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
· Strong knowledge of addiction treatment, co-occurring disorders, ASAM Criteria, and DSM-5 diagnostic standards.
· Proficiency in evidence-based counseling approaches including MI, CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care.
· Strong clinical assessment, communication, documentation, and crisis-management skills.
· Ability to engage and motivate clients while maintaining professional boundaries.
· Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary treatment environment.
· Proficiency with electronic health records (EHRs) and standard computer systems.
Working Conditions
· Full-time, in-person position.
· Flexibility for evenings or weekends may be required based on program needs.
· Clinical environment with exposure to high-stress situations.
· Occasional travel may be required for client support or community-related services.
Why Join Us
Join a dedicated team committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals seeking recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health
disorders. We value clinical excellence, teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to helping clients build healthier, more stable lives.
Pay: Up to $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
License/Certification:
- CADC, LCADC, LAC, LSW, LPC, or LCSW (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Newark, NJ 07114 (Required)
Work Location: In person
