Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Co-occurring Disorders Counselor to join our dynamic behavioral health team. In this role, you will provide comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder counseling services to individuals experiencing both mental health disorders and substance use issues. Your expertise will help clients navigate complex challenges, develop coping strategies, and achieve lasting recovery. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those facing dual diagnoses, utilizing evidence-based practices and a client-centered approach. The ideal candidate will be energetic, motivated, and committed to fostering positive change through innovative therapeutic techniques.
Responsibilities
1. Assessment and Diagnosis
- Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, including mental health and substance use evaluations
2. Treatment Planning
- Develop individualized, person-centered, trauma-informed treatment plans
- Incorporate both mental health and substance use treatment goals
- Review and update treatment plans based on client progress and clinical necessity
- Collaborate with clients to establish measurable goals and objectives
3. Counseling Services
- Provide individual, family, and group counseling services
- Implement evidence-based interventions, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing (MI)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills
- Relapse Prevention Strategies
- Support clients in developing emotional regulation, coping, and recovery skills
4. Care Coordination and Case Management
- Coordinate services with medical providers, community agencies, probation/parole officers, schools, and other systems of care
- Facilitate referrals to appropriate levels of care, including detoxification, inpatient treatment, residential treatment, and outpatient services
- Advocate for client access to community resources and support services
- Assist clients in reducing barriers to treatment and recovery
5. Documentation and Compliance
- Maintain accurate, timely, and complete clinical documentation
- Complete assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, discharge summaries, and other required records
- Ensure documentation supports medical necessity and meets Medicaid and agency standards
- Comply with all applicable federal, state, and agency regulations
6. Crisis Intervention
- Assess and respond to behavioral health crises, including suicide and self-harm risk
- Develop and implement safety plans as needed
- Coordinate emergency services and higher levels of care when clinically indicated
- Provide crisis stabilization and support
7. Group Facilitation
- Facilitate psychoeducational, process, and recovery-oriented groups
- Provide education regarding addiction, mental health, relapse prevention, and recovery
- Foster a safe, respectful, and therapeutic group environment
8. Professional and Ethical Practice
- Adhere to all professional ethical standards and Washington State laws governing behavioral health practice
- Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 requirements
- Participate in required supervision and professional development activities
- Maintain professional boundaries with clients and colleagues
- Develop and maintain knowledge of community resources and referral networks
- Utilize evidence-based screening and assessment tools, including DSM-5 and ASAM Criteria
- Formulate diagnoses within the scope of licensure and credentialing
- Identify treatment needs, risk factors, strengths, and barriers to recovery
Experience
- Proven experience in behavioral health settings with a focus on co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis treatment
- Strong background in psychotherapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, or applied behavior analysis (ABA)
- Knowledge of medical records management, ICD coding systems (ICD-9/10), CPT coding for billing purposes, and medical terminology
- Familiarity with patient assessment tools including intake procedures and diagnostic evaluation processes
- Demonstrated ability to manage crisis situations effectively while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor
- Prior experience in home & community care environments or outpatient clinics is preferred
Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Loan forgiveness
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
License/Certification:
- SUDP or SUDPT and Assoc. or licensed counselor (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
