Summary:
The Supportive Counselor provides behavioral health supportive counseling services to individuals with mental health and/or substance use needs. This position focuses on stabilization, coping, and skill-building, assisting clients in managing daily stressors, maintaining recovery, and accessing community support. The Supportive Counselor works under the supervision of a licensed clinician and delivers services consistent with the client’s individualized treatment plan.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide individual and/or group supportive counseling focused on coping skills, psychosocial support, relapse prevention, and daily living stabilization.
- Assist clients in identifying strengths and resources to improve independence and functioning.
- Support clients in navigating systems such as housing, employment, education, healthcare, and community resources.
- Facilitate development of problem-solving, communication, and self-advocacy skills.
- Provide motivational support to encourage engagement in treatment, compliance with probation/court requirements, or recovery programs.
- Document services in compliance with WV Medicaid and agency standards, ensuring progress notes reflect goals, interventions, and client response.
- Collaborate with clinical staff, case managers, peer recovery specialists, and community partners to ensure coordinated care.
- Participate in treatment team meetings and staffings as required.
- Adhere to all agency, state, and federal guidelines regarding confidentiality, ethics, and professional practice.
Education & Requirements
- Minimum Education:
- High School Diploma or GED with documented behavioral health work experience and specialized training, or
- Preferred: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a human services field (psychology, social work, counseling, sociology, or related).
- Experience:
- At least 1 year of direct client service in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or social services preferred.
- Training:
- Must complete required agency and Medicaid trainings, including crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, confidentiality, and documentation standards.
- Supervision:
- Must work under the supervision of a licensed clinician (LPC, LICSW, LMFT, Psychologist).
- Other Requirements:
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (if community-based services are required).
- Ability to pass state background checks and maintain compliance with WV Medicaid staff credential requirements.
Core Competencies
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Empathy, patience, and ability to maintain professional boundaries.
- Knowledge of community resources and recovery supports.
- Ability to manage documentation requirements accurately and on time.
- Commitment to teamwork and person-centered care.
ATTESTATION OF REVIEW AND UNDERSTANDING
I hereby attest and agree that I have been given the opportunity to review and discuss this job
description prior to accepting this position. Any questions or concerns have been addressed and
explained to my satisfaction. I confirm that I meet the qualifications for this position.
A copy of my job description was provided to me on my first day of employment.
Employee Signature____________________
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