Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse
Position: Certified SUD Counselor
Position Summary: The Counselor II is an intermediate level registered or certified Substance Use Disorder (SUD) counselor who provides direct client care and manages an independent caseload. This position performs all 12 Core Functions—including assessment, counseling, and treatment planning—under ongoing clinical supervision. Counselor II ensures compliance with all documentation, service delivery, and ethical standards in accordance with funder, program, and agency policy, and may provide services within youth programs where assigned.
Essential Job Functions (All Programs):
- Screening - Conduct screening interviews and determine program eligibility and level of care for assigned clients.
- Intake - Perform client intake procedures including collection of demographic information, informed consent, and program documentation ensuring accuracy.
- Orientation - Provide program orientation to clients and families regarding program expectations, goals, rules, services, and clients' rights and responsibilities.
- Assessment - Provide detailed orientation to clients and families about program rules, objectives, confidentiality, and participation requirements.
- Treatment Planning - Develop, update, and implement individualized treatment plans that establish measurable goals, interventions, and timeframes.
- Counseling (Individual, Group, and Family) - Provide counseling sessions utilizing evidence-based and trauma-informed modalities that support recovery.
- Case Management – Coordinate services and referrals with community providers, monitor client progress, and support access to wraparound services
- Crisis Intervention Respond to urgent client situations, provide crisis de-escalation, and consult with supervisors for immediate care coordination. Client Education - Facilitate educational sessions covering substance use, mental health awareness, coping skills, and relapse prevention techniques.
- Referral - Refer clients to appropriate community services including behavioral health, housing, medical, and vocational supports.
- Reports and Record Keeping - Complete and maintain accurate, timely progress notes, assessments, and discharge summaries.
- Consultation with Other Professionals - Collaborate with multidisciplinary treatment teams, clinical supervisors, and community partners.
- Maintains professionalism in dress, language, attitude, and behavior at all times, representing the organization with integrity and respect.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with clients, coworkers, and community stakeholders.
- Demonstrate professionalism in appearance, conduct, punctuality, and overall workplace behavior.
- Maintain consistent and reliable attendance to support program operations and client care needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned by Program or Clinical Managers to support overall program operations in all settings.
Qualifications & Requirements:
- Must be a registered or certified SUD counselor in good standing with a DHCS-approved certifying organization.
- Minimum 2,080 hours supervised experience in a substance use disorder treatment setting.
- Knowledge of the 12 Core Functions of SUD counseling and related documentation standards.
- Strong communication, group facilitation, and crisis management skills.
- Experience working with youth and co-occurring populations.
- Must pass a DOJ/FBI background check and maintain current CPR, First Aid, TB clearance, and physical exam.
- Must possess a valid California driver’s license, current auto insurance, and a clean driving record. Must be eligible under the agency’s DMV Pull Notice Program and able to operate an agency or personal vehicle for work-related travel, including client transport and inter-site duties.
Education Requirements:
- Associate’s degree in Addiction Studies or related field required.
- Completion of a DHCS-approved practicum (minimum 255 hours).
- Must maintain required continuing education for certification renewal.
Physical Demands and Working Environment:
- Duties performed in treatment, residential, outpatient, youth program settings and community-based sites.
- Frequent standing, sitting, and walking; occasional lifting up to 25 pounds.
- May have regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and communicable diseases, must follow universal precautions
- May involve client crises, emotional or behavioral challenges, and occasional local travel.
- May involve exposure to clients in crisis or under the influence of substances.
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Supervision:
- Works under general supervision of a Clinical Supervisor or Program Manager.
- May mentor Counselor I staff or student interns under supervision.
L.A. CADA also offers Drug Education / Diversion, Parenting Education, Anger Management, and Domestic Violence counseling services, authorized or approved by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the Los Angeles County Department of Probation, the Los Angeles County Superior Court, and / or meeting the requirements of the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. Additionally, L.A. CADA offers HIV / AIDS prevention and intervention services, including HIV testing.
LA CADA is committed to servicing an underserved and vulnerable population. Our staff is dedicated to provide a tailored treatment fitted for individuals and their families. Here at LA CADA all staff are provided on-going training and professional development to help our community.
Be a part of making a positive difference. Apply today!
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $27.00 - $32.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
