Program Overview

The Fulton County Clubhouse for Youth is a place where adolescents, ages 13– 17, can spend their out-of-school time learning the tools, coping skills, and socialization strategies to keep them safe and drug-free. Youth participate in life skills groups, social outings, educational supports, career development/exploration, and other activities that teach them how to maintain a healthy and sober lifestyle.

Position Summary

As a Substance Abuse Counselor, you will play a vital role in helping young individuals develop the necessary tools, coping skills, and socialization strategies to maintain a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. Your primary responsibility will be to offer counseling, guidance, and support to the youth participating in the program.

Role and Responsibilities

Individual and Group Counseling:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of the participants to identify substance abuse issues, mental health concerns, and other related challenges. Provide individual and group counseling sessions to address substance abuse problems, develop coping skills, promote self-awareness, and facilitate personal growth.

Treatment Planning:

• Collaborate with participants, their families, and other relevant stakeholders to develop personalized treatment plans. Set goals, establish measurable objectives, and identify appropriate interventions to address substance abuse issues effectively.

Relapse Prevention Planning:

• Collaborate with participants to develop relapse prevention plans that outline strategies and coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety. Assist participants in identifying triggers, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and creating an effective support network to prevent relapse.

Education and Prevention:

• Deliver engaging educational sessions and workshops to increase participants' knowledge about substance abuse, its consequences, and the benefits of a healthy and sober lifestyle. Educate participants on the effects of drugs, provide information on prevention strategies, and promote positive decision-making.

Life Skills Development:

• Facilitate life skills groups and activities to enhance participants' abilities to navigate challenges and make positive choices. Teach essential skills such as problem-solving, communication, stress management, conflict resolution, and time management.

Socialization and Recreation:

• Organize and supervise social outings and recreational activities that provide participants with healthy alternatives to substance use. Foster a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes positive peer interactions, healthy relationships, and the development of social skills.

Career Development and Exploration:

• Assist participants in exploring career interests, identifying educational opportunities, and setting realistic goals for their future. Offer guidance on resume building, job search strategies, and interview skills to promote self-sufficiency and successful integration into the workforce.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of participant assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and related documentation. Prepare reports as required by program policies, funding sources, and regulatory agencies.

Collaboration and Networking:

• Coordinate and collaborate with other professionals, including mental health providers, social workers, educators, and community organizations, to ensure a comprehensive approach to participant care. Establish positive working relationships and engage in networking activities to enhance program effectiveness and access additional resources.

Transportation:

• As part of this role, there may be a requirement to provide transportation services for clients, ensuring safe and punctual transportation to and from programming. This includes responsibly driving clients while adhering to agency driving standards, maintaining a clean driving record, and prioritizing client safety and comfort during transit.

Qualifications/Competencies

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.
• Licensure or certification as a substance abuse counselor (e.g., Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor, etc.) is preferred.
• Experience working with adolescents and a strong understanding of adolescent development and substance abuse issues.
• Familiarity with evidence-based counseling techniques, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and other relevant therapeutic modalities.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively engage and connect with young individuals.
• Empathy, patience, and the ability to establish rapport with participants from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills to effectively handle multiple responsibilities and meet program objectives.
• Proficient in maintaining accurate documentation and preparing reports as required.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment and engage in effective interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record and a commitment to adhering to agency driving standards.

Salary: $48,000.00

Benefits we offer:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Basic and Voluntary Life Insurance and AD&D
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flex Spending Account
• Health Savings Account
• 403 (b) plan
• Paid Time Off

Schedule:

This position is a full-time job, with work occurring Monday through Friday, and occasional availability on one Saturday per month. Workdays typically consist of 7 to 8 hours per day, with start and end times varying based on school or summer hours to accommodate the needs of the school-age clients. The specific schedule will be determined in coordination with the Program Manager and may include evening hours to accommodate participant availability and program events.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.