IOP Group Counselor

Position Summary

The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) Counselor for Substance Abuse Groups is responsible for providing specialized counseling services to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. This role focuses on facilitating group counseling sessions while also offering individual support. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in substance abuse treatment and expertise in managing therapeutic groups effectively.

Key Responsibilities

1. Client Assessment and Treatment Planning:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate clients' substance use history, mental health status, and treatment needs.
• Develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients, setting clear and achievable goals.
• Regularly review and update treatment plans based on clients' progress and evolving needs.

2. Group Counseling Services:

• Facilitate group counseling sessions, creating a supportive and therapeutic environment for clients.
• Utilize evidence-based group therapy techniques to address substance use disorders and related issues.
• Foster group cohesion, encourage participation, and manage group dynamics effectively.

3. Individual Counseling Services:

• Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions to address clients' specific needs and treatment goals.
• Provide personalized support and therapeutic interventions to aid in clients' recovery.

4. Case Management:

• Coordinate with case managers to assist clients in accessing community resources, managing appointments, and navigating support services.
• Monitor clients' progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, documenting all sessions and treatment activities.

5. Family Involvement:

• Engage family members in the treatment process, providing education and counseling to support the client's recovery.
• Facilitate family counseling sessions as appropriate to address family dynamics and support systems.

6. Program Development and Quality Improvement:

• Participate in program development activities, contributing to the continuous improvement of the IOP.
• Attend regular staff meetings and training sessions to stay current with best practices and emerging trends in addiction.
• Collaborate with the treatment team to ensure a coordinated approach to client care.

Qualifications

Education and Licensure:

• Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.
• Licensed or certified as a mental health professional (e.g., LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, LCADC, LMSW, LGPC, ADT, CAC-AD or equivalent) in the state of Maryland.

Experience:

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in substance use disorder treatment and/or mental health counseling.
• Extensive experience in facilitating group counseling sessions for substance abuse treatment.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong clinical skills with proficiency in evidence-based group therapy techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach to client care.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in intensive outpatient program or similar treatment programs.
  

Work Environment

• The IOP Counselor will work in a clinical setting, providing services in both individual and group formats.
• The role requires evening hours.