Chemical Dependency Counselor

Employment Type: Full time

Shift: Description:

At MercyOne, health care is more than just a doctor’s visit or a place to go when you’re in need of medical attention. Our Mission is based on improving the health of our communities – that means not only when you are sick but keeping you well.

MercyOne Central Iowa sets the standard for personalized and radically convenient care in the Des Moines metro area and surrounding counties. MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1893, is the longest continually operating hospital in Des Moines and Iowa’s largest medical center, with 802 beds available. The hospital is one of the Midwest’s largest referral centers.

With more than 7,000 colleagues and a medical staff of almost 1,500 physicians and allied health professionals, MercyOne Central Iowa is one of Iowa’s largest employers.

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We are looking to hire a Social Worker who completes the initial and ongoing substance abuse assessments to determine diagnosis, level of care, etc. utilizing the American Society of Addiction Medicine Patient Placement Criteria (ASAM) as well as:

Performs a comprehensive bio-psychosocial assessment to analyze and synthesize the client’s status and addresses the client’s strengths, problems, and areas of clinical concern. On an ongoing basis assesses client needs/strengths, behaviors, and progress toward desired outcomes.

Specifically monitors client progress in areas of recovery, personal growth, self- sufficiency, living skills, etc. Determines need for outside professional evaluations (e. g., mental health), and independently refers to appropriate care providers, agencies, etc. as needed.

Facilitates the admission process utilizing a compassionate and empathetic manner to ensure all clients entering the program feel welcome, appreciated and understood. Helps ensure all clients feel a focus on collaboration and engagement from the very beginning of their involvement with House of Mercy.

Develops treatment plans in accordance with program requirements, state regulations, etc. and communicates pertinent treatment plan information to others as needed. Updates and revises client treatment goals/objectives on a regular basis consistent with House of Mercy and regulatory expectations.

Establishes rapport and develops a therapeutic relationship with assigned clients. Provides counseling services in individual and group sessions. Therapeutic efforts are primarily directed towards addressing issues related to recovery, self-esteem, self-sufficiency, and grief. Maintains appropriate professional boundaries with all persons involved.

Schedule: 80 hours biweekly Full-Time

General Requirements

Previous experience working with chemically dependent and at-risk clientele, including a thorough understanding of chemical dependency treatment concepts, psychosocial assessment, application of chemical dependency diagnosis, provision of therapeutic chemical dependency treatment interventions, facilitation of therapeutic groups, etc., preferred.

• CADC certification is required at the time of hire.
• Proof of completion of Mandatory Reporter abuse training specific to population served within thirty days of employment.
• Ability to understand medical terminology and communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.

Education

• High School Diploma or GED, required.
• Bachelor’s degree required (in the behavioral sciences, preferred)

Colleagues of MercyOne Health System enjoy competitive compensation with a full benefits package and opportunity for growth throughout the system!

Visit MercyOne Careers to learn more about the benefits, culture, and career development opportunities available to you at MercyOne Health System circle of care.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.