Position Summary
Grandview Foundation is seeking a compassionate, organized, and customer-focused Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Admissions Counselor to serve as the first point of contact for individuals and families seeking treatment. This position is responsible for managing the admissions process for both residential and outpatient services, conducting screenings and assessments, verifying eligibility, coordinating admissions, and ensuring a smooth transition into treatment.
The Admissions Counselor plays a critical role in engaging prospective clients with empathy and professionalism while collaborating with referral sources, healthcare providers, county partners, and internal clinical staff. The ideal candidate is knowledgeable about the continuum of care for substance use disorders, possesses excellent communication skills, and is committed to helping individuals begin their recovery journey.
The Admissions Counselor works as part of a collaborative interdisciplinary admissions team that includes the Medical Director, Clinical Director, therapists, Peer Support Specialists, nursing staff, and program leadership to ensure each prospective client receives a comprehensive assessment, timely placement, and a seamless transition into the appropriate level of care.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Respond promptly and professionally to inquiries from prospective clients, families, referral sources, hospitals, behavioral health providers, and community agencies.
- Conduct telephone and in-person screenings to determine eligibility and level of care for residential and outpatient treatment services.
- Complete intake assessments and gather required clinical, medical, financial, and demographic information.
- Verify insurance benefits and coordinate authorizations when applicable.
- Coordinate admissions with clinical, medical, and program staff to ensure timely placement into the appropriate level of care.
- Explain program expectations, policies, treatment options, and admission requirements to clients and families.
- Facilitate the admission process, including obtaining required documentation, releases of information, and consent forms.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the electronic health record (EHR).
- Build and maintain positive working relationships with referral sources, managed care organizations, hospitals, probation, child welfare agencies, and community partners.
- Participate in outreach and marketing activities as assigned to promote Grandview Foundation's programs and services.
- Track admissions data and maintain accurate records for reporting purposes.
- Collaborate with residential, outpatient, nursing, medical, and administrative staff to ensure continuity of care.
- Maintain compliance with Joint Commission standards, DHCS, SAPC, and all applicable regulatory requirements.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Health, Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
- Registered or Certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor (RADT, CADC, CATC, or equivalent) preferred, or ability to obtain registration as required.
- Minimum one year of experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, admissions, case management, or related field preferred.
- Knowledge of ASAM Criteria and appropriate levels of care preferred.
- Knowledge of MAT.
- Experience with electronic health records (PCNX and KIPU) and Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong customer service, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to build rapport with clients experiencing crisis or emotional distress.
- Ability to work independently while functioning effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Bilingual English/Spanish is highly desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Excellent interpersonal and motivational interviewing skills.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Understanding of confidentiality requirements, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
- Knowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, recovery principles, and community resources.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain professionalism in sensitive situations.
- Commitment to providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and person-centered care.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use standard office equipment throughout the workday.
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to travel between program locations or community partners as needed.
Schedule
This position is a Monday-Friday position.
Why Join Grandview Foundation?
At Grandview Foundation, Recovery Lives Here. Every phone call, assessment, and admission represents an opportunity to change a life. As an Admissions Counselor, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care that helps individuals and families begin their recovery journey.
Grandview Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Pay: $24.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
