Substance Abuse Counselor- CASAC

New York, Queens, Bronx, NY

PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE:

Reporting to the Assistant Program Director or the Team Leader, the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) is responsible for providing comprehensive assessments to all clients.  As a member of the interdisciplinary team, the CASAC will participate in the development and implementation of treatment plans for clients who may have a history of substance abuse.    He/she will work directly with clients in individual and group counseling sessions on issues surrounding chemical abuse/dependency and advocates a drug-free lifestyle.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES including the following.  Other duties may be assigned:

  • Completes comprehensive evaluation to screen(s) for substance use history; identify the treatment needs of clients and in collaboration with the team will develop an Individual Service Plan with the client. 
  • Utilize assessment to establish the degree of risk for substance use and associated harmful behaviors and identify interventions required to promote progress towards recovery for the client.
  • Provides individual and group counseling around substance use, relapse prevention, psychoeducation, and harm reduction based on motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral responses to substance use.
  • Advocates for clients in securing emergency detox and rehabilitation care, and other community supports that promote integrated substance use or dual disorder treatment. 
  • Will serve as liaison between OASAS treatment programs and CRF Transitional Housing Program.
  • Refer clients to services with providers with whom CRF has linkage/partnership agreements for services, as needed.
  • Outreach and develops referral and services resources for the clients within the local community.
  • Ensures all client contacts, assessments, and client activity, etc are documented in case notes and filed in the client chart.  Enters case notes and client activity in CARES or other reporting sources.
  • Completes reports as required.
  • Participates in interdisciplinary team meetings, staff meetings, staff training, etc.
  • Participates in the coordination of client ceremonies, events, and other program activities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • Two years’ experience navigating the substance use and mental health systems in NYC
  • CASAC with a Valid OASAS certification required.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Computer literacy required (word, excel)
  • Experience in working with dual diagnosed population

EEO StatementChildren’s Rescue Fund is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation or protected veteran status