IL/Lincoln - Counselor

$37,440 - $44,491/Yr

Westcare - Lincoln, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Lincoln, IL

Ambulatory Health Care Services

About the position

The Counselor position at WestCare Inc. involves providing comprehensive support and treatment programs for clients dealing with substance abuse issues. The role focuses on engaging clients through therapeutic relationships, conducting assessments, developing service plans, and facilitating educational groups. Counselors are responsible for maintaining client records, ensuring confidentiality, and participating in ongoing training to enhance their skills in substance abuse treatment.

Responsibilities

• Complete assessment of each client with required assessment tools.
• Initiate and sustain each individual's motivation to participate in treatment using engagement techniques.
• Develop a comprehensive service plan for each client that includes assessment results and treatment goals.
• Provide daily treatment and curriculum-based education groups on various therapeutic concepts.
• Assist clients in developing self-help groups like AA/NA.
• Maintain individual client treatment files in accordance with agency policies.
• Provide general client supervision, including planning and scheduling therapeutic activities.
• Maintain confidentiality according to federal regulations.
• Obtain signed releases of confidential information from clients.
• Maintain thorough records of each client's participation and submit data weekly for database entry.
• Attend required staff development training and in-service training.
• Embrace and embody the mission and goals of WestCare Foundation.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Hold clinical certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor from IAODAPCA or meet requirements within two years of employment.
• Complete 40 hours of continuing education biennially if CADC licensed.
• Obtain 150 hours of clinical supervision and 225 hours of training/education within two years of hire.
• Master's or bachelor's degree preferred; high school diploma or equivalent required.
• Knowledge of offender populations and substance abuse assessment tools.
• Intake and assessment experience preferred.
• Bilingual skills preferred.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to pass background check and pre-employment drug screening.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.

Nice-to-haves

• Bilingual skills
• Experience with offender populations
• Intake and assessment experience

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage
• Opportunities for professional development
• Supportive work environment
• Health and wellness programs