Substance Abuse Counselor I- Fitchburg

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR I - Fitchburg CJSC

I. General Statement of Duties and Responsibilities

To provide inmates/probationers/parolees with education and information about substance abuse and dependence.

II. Essential Functions

• (a) To provide drug and alcohol education for inmates/probationers/parolees;
• (b) To provide education in the areas of stress management, anger management and coping skills;
• (c) To assist inmates/probationers/parolees in recognizing the consequences of substance abuse;
• (d) To instruct inmates/probationers/parolees in alternative coping skills for living drug-free;
• (e) To teach Relapse Prevention I and Relapse Prevention II programs;

(f) To educate inmates/probationers/parolees about high risk behaviors with the goal of reducing the spread of AIDS, Hepatitis A, B and C, and other sexually transmitted diseases;

(g) To introduce inmates/probationers/parolees to support agencies such as Alcoholics Anonymous,

(h) To develop an individualized aftercare plan which identifies problems requiring continuing treatment and service to help the inmate remain drug-free;

(i) To prepare accurately and maintain as current all required reports and records;

(j) To observe inmates/probationers/parolees general condition and refer inmates/probationers/parolees to the appropriate supportive services, i. e. medical, mental and social services;

• (k) To foster an atmosphere of cooperation between inmates/probationers/parolees and staff;
• (l) To observe conduct and behavior of inmates/probationers/parolees and to report any unusual occurrences to supervisor;
• (m) To ensure that inmates/probationers/parolees sign in on the required attendance sheet;
• (n) To conduct classes in a professional manner and use only approved materials;
• (o) To work harmoniously, cooperatively and courteously with others at all times;
• (p) To perform other duties as assigned;
• (q) To report to work on time and appropriately attired;
• (r) To maintain regular attendance.

[1] This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

[2] The essential functions or duties listed are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

III. Minimum Qualifications

• A. Education and Experience:
• Minimum of two (1) year relevant experience.

OCC positions require the following: Bachelor's Degree in psychology, education, counseling, psychology, rehabilitative counseling, social work from an accredited college or university and a minimum of two years supervised counseling, or equivalent combination of education and experience. CADAC preferred.

• B. Special Requirements:
• None.
• C. Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, in writing and orally
• Ability to maintain accurate and detailed records
• Ability to talk to others to effectively convey information
• Ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through verbal and written communication
• Working skill in the use of personal computers, particularly word processing
• Working knowledge of support agencies such as Alcoholics Anonymous, etc.
• Working knowledge in the effects of drugs and alcohol

D. Physical Qualifications:

• Minimal physical effort demanded when performing functions under typical clinical setting.
• Frequently required to sit, talk and hear.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and the ability to adjust focus.

IV. Job Environment

• Setting: Criminal Justice Support Center
• Location: Fitchburg Community Justice Support Center
• Worcester County Sheriff’s Office
• 133 Prichard Street
• Fitchburg, MA 01420

V. Supervision Received

Works under the direct supervision of the CJSC Program Director and Assistant Program Director who provides instruction and guidance, assigns work, and reviews performance through oral and written reports.

VI. Supervision Exercised

None.