Chemical Dependency Counselor Trainee

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Chemical Dependency Supervisor, this position involves gaining experience and training as required in order to become a Washington State certified Chemical Dependency Professional at a time set by the Tribe. A trainee may practice only under the supervision of a certified Chemical Dependency Professional, in order to document and track all necessary education, training, and experience required (the first fifty hours of any face-to-face client contact must be under direct observation).

• Special Requirements: Must have no substance abuse for the past three (3) years. Pass urinalysis testing; pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

MAJOR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides chemical dependency assessment, counseling, and case management to clients consistent with his or her education, training, and experience, as documented by the approved supervisor. Prepares and maintains client files and writes reports and letters as needed. Documents all treatment methods including direct services, client related activities, and follow up contact. Work with external agencies such as schools, employers, MCFS, the court system, treatment providers, etc. to assist clients in meeting their goals. Reports suspected child or elder abuse and threats of harm to self or others to appropriate authorities and agencies. Follows all HIPAA regulations as they pertain to behavioral health services. Participates in relevant team meetings to ensure a comprehensive and collaborative approach to client care. Attends appropriate interdepartmental meetings with other tribal programs. Supervises urinalysis testing of clients as clinically indicated. Because of the Tribe's commitment to community service and the well being of its members, each employee may be expected to perform a wide range of office and field duties from time to time. Such duties may or may not be related to their regular responsibilities.

EDUCATION - EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING FOR POSITION

Required:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• A Chemical Dependency Professional Trainee certification in Washington State, or the ability to obtain one within three months of hire.
• Completion of one year of educational requirements defined in WAC 246-811-030 to become a CDP (CDP requirements are an associate's degree in human services or related field from an approved school, or completion of 90 quarter or 60 semester college credits in courses from an approved school.
• At least 45 quarter or 30 semester credits must be in courses specific to alcohol and drug addicted individuals.

Special Requirements:

• Must have no substance abuse for the past three (3) years.
• Pass urinalysis testing; pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

SPECIFIC SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES REQUIRED FOR POSITION

Skilled in:

• Utilizing standard office equipment, such as phones, copy machine, scanner, fax, calculators, and computers.
• Communicating in both oral and written forms.

Knowledge of:

• Substance abuse and addiction treatment methods.
• Addiction placement, continuing care, discharge criteria, and ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) criteria.
• Chemical dependency clinical evaluation including screening for comorbidity.
• Native American culture and how culture pertains to treatment.
• Federal and State regulations related to client confidentiality.
• Social service systems and advocating for residents' needs.
• Conflict resolution techniques.

Ability to:

• Give oral presentations effectively and document all required paperwork.
• Set limits with clients and motivate them to engage in healthy activities.
• Apply conflict resolution techniques with clients who are in early drug and alcohol recovery and/or who have emotional regulation issues.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this class. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to walk and climb stairs; use hands to operate, finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet.

Licenses or Certifications Required

A current and valid Washington State driver's license and CPR certification is required at the time of appointment or at a time set by the Tribe. Certification as Chemical Dependency Professional Trainee in Washington State required or ability to obtain Trainee Certification within three months of hire.