Job Description

Substance Abuse Counselor 

Location: Coastal Oaks Recovery, Port Royal, South Carolina 

About Coastal Oaks Recovery 

Located in the heart of the Lowcountry in South Carolina, Coastal Oaks Recovery is a 72-bed substance-use treatment center serving adults aged eighteen and older. Nestled on five serene acres near the coastal waters and wetlands of Port Royal, Coastal Oaks provides a tranquil environment for individuals suffering from addiction to stabilize and embark on their journey toward recovery and wellness. 

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we offer medically monitored detoxification under the direct care of physicians and nurses, supported by a multidisciplinary treatment team. In addition to withdrawal management, our residential treatment services provide a safe and structured environment for 30 to 45 days, ensuring that each patient builds a solid foundation of recovery skills prior to discharge. 

Our evidence-based programming includes group therapy, individual counseling, family programming, and specialized care tailored to meet individual needs. With a holistic and experiential approach, we emphasize safety, collaboration, and a patient-first culture that nurtures recovery and wellness for both patients and staff. 

Position Purpose 

As a member of the treatment team, the Substance Abuse Counselor provides mental health and substance use counseling on an individual basis and in group settings. This role involves conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, educating patients and families, and documenting progress to support the recovery journey. The counselor fosters a therapeutic environment and collaborates with the multidisciplinary team to provide patient-centered care. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Patient Assessment and Care 

• Conduct comprehensive assessments to gather personal, medical, and psychosocial histories. 
• Design individualized treatment and rehabilitation plans based on the patient’s unique needs, using evidence-based methods.
• Provide individual and group counseling sessions to address substance use issues and support patient recovery. 
• Educate patients about substance use disorders, co-occurring conditions, and community resources, including support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. 

Collaboration and Advocacy 

• Work collaboratively with family members to educate them about their roles in the recovery process and foster supportive environments for patients. 
• Advocate for patients’ needs and facilitate access to social services, employment resources, and community programs. 
• Participate as a key member of the multidisciplinary treatment team, sharing insights and recommendations to enhance care. 

Documentation and Compliance 

• Maintain accurate and timely case histories, treatment plans, and progress notes. 
• Regularly evaluate and modify treatment plans based on observations and patient feedback. 
• Adhere to all HIPAA, confidentiality, and Coastal Oaks Recovery documentation standards. 

Holistic and Evidence-Based Care 

• Integrate holistic approaches to care, addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of recovery. 
• Utilize motivational interviewing and other therapeutic techniques to engage patients and support behavior change. 
• Promote abstinence from mood- and mind-altering substances and educate patients about the risks of relapse. 

Skills and Abilities 

• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to establish therapeutic relationships and demonstrate empathy and professionalism. 
• Knowledge of addiction models, co-occurring disorders, and evidence-based treatment practices.
• Proficiency in electronic medical records (EMR) systems and strong documentation skills. 
• Ability to manage challenging situations with calmness and sound clinical judgment. 

Education and Experience 

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Sociology, or a related field. 
• Preferred: Certification as an Addiction Professional (CAP) or equivalent. 
• Experience: Minimum of two years of experience in individual, group, and family counseling in mental health and/or substance use treatment settings. 
• Knowledge of motivational enhancement techniques and holistic recovery strategies is preferred. 

Licensure/Certification 

• HIV/AIDS training (required every two years). 
• Current CPR certification. 
• Additional certifications related to addiction counseling are a plus. 

Physical and Work Environment Requirements 

• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and sitting. 
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally. 
• Work primarily indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. 
• Ability to maintain professionalism and empathy in high-stress situations. 

Why Join Coastal Oaks Recovery? 

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we are committed to fostering a culture that emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and patient-centered care. Our multidisciplinary team works together to create a safe, nurturing environment where patients can begin their recovery journey and staff can thrive professionally. 

If you are a dedicated professional passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals recovering from substance use disorders, apply today to join our team at Coastal Oaks Recovery! 

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