Assessment Counselor

Description

POSITION TITLE: Assessment Counselor 

REPORTS TO: Senior Director of Admissions

ORGANIZATION

VIP Community Services is dedicated to changing lives and transforming our community. We offer a continuum of services to individuals with histories of chemical dependency. Our client-centered approach empowers people to take charge of their lives and discover their personal paths to self-sufficiency.

Please visit www.vipservices.org to learn more.

POSITION SUMMARY: Under the direction and supervision of the Admissions Director, the Assessment Counselor provides the development and management of coordinated assessment and counseling services to ensure optimum services are provided to new admissions and existing clients.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

A. Provide Assessment and Counsel to New Admissions as well as Existing Clients.

· Responsible for initial screening and biopsychosocial assessment of all new clients that present to the Access Center.

· Utilization of screening tools to assess for the lowest level of clinical care; along with wrap around services.

· Counsel clients on the various levels of clinical care and encourage participation to improve all life areas.

· Work collaboratively with Intake Department to ensure continuity of care for all new admissions.

· Work Collaboratively with Support Staff to schedule and ensure completion of medical assessments and psychiatric evaluation appointments.

· Screen incoming referral packets for program appropriateness.

· Contact referents via email/phone to confirm referral packet was received.

· Maintain documented record of all Clinical Assessment sessions.

· Maintain monthly statistical reports to measure utilization review for all OASAS and OMH licensed programs.

· Assist in agency outreach efforts to recruit new clientele.

· Participate in comprehensive interdisciplinary team treatment planning and activities as needed.

· Collaborate with other disciplines in the field to screen and escort clients to the VIP treatment facilities.

· Conduct intakes on Saturdays on behalf of the Access Center to fulfill compliance with 820 regulations.

· Attend and present at health fairs, promotion events, community meetings, and all other participatory requirements.

· Monitor the collection of urine specimens and toxicology results.

· Manage telephone inquiries and provide program information, including information on alternative providers.

· Maintain up to date database of referral information and resources.

· Refer applicants to alternative services (e.g. Detoxification Units, Rehab Programs, etc.) as needed.

· Pick up and transport clients and records to and from intra/outer agency facilities as needed.

· Execute intra/outer agency warm handoffs to support consumers and ensure integrative care.

· Interact with community members in a way which support’s cooperation among agencies, recovery, and wellness.

· Provide support for persons with substance use/mental health diagnosis to engage positively and effectively advocate for resources beneficial to the client’s recovery.

· Perform all required documentation and data entry for assigned clients.

· Maintain good working relationships with all staff, clients and visitors.

· Perform all other duties as assigned by the Director.

B. Participate in Job Training and Education Programs, Meetings and Committees as assigned or indicated.

· Attend mandatory in-service trainings as scheduled.

· Attend seminars to further professional development.

JOB COMPETENCY:

· High School Diploma required. Associate/Bachelor’s Degree preferred

· QHP or Certified Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC).

· Minimum of 3 years experience working in the behavioral health field and knowledge of OASAS/OMH systems.

· Bilingual English/Spanish Preferred

· Excellent written and oral communication skills.

· Knowledge of computer programs.

· Excellent organizational skills.

· Available to work flexible schedule.

JOB SETTING:

· Must possess sight, hearing and digital senses or use prosthesis that will enable the essential functions of the job to be completed.

NOTE: This description reflects management’s assignment of the essential functions. It does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Tasks are subject to change at any time due to any reasonable but necessary conditions.