PRIMARY THERAPIST

POSITION FUNCTION/OVERVIEW:

This position is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive treatment plans for a caseload of clients and families. Accordingly, they will assess and identify clinical issues for each family and create clear objectives and goals. Therapists will also track and document client and family progress in case reports while working to meet all required internal and external standards and policies.

The Primary Therapist’s duties include individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, conflict resolution, assessment and treatment planning, case presentations, conducting interventions, giving individual and group lectures and didactic presentations, participating in multidisciplinary case conferences and treatment plan reviews, developing aftercare treatment plans, and all required documentation. 

PRIMARY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Promote the mission, values and vision of the organization.

• Provide excellent customer service for clients; practices confidentiality and privacy protocols in accordance with HIPAA requirements.

• Assess the needs of the client by listening and providing guidance in a dual diagnosis setting.

• Work creatively with various client groups in a therapeutic setting.

• Participate in a multidisciplinary team of professionals.

• Support counselors and the treatment team in helping clients reach their therapeutic goals and objectives.

• Help clients share thoughts and feelings often difficult to put into words.

• Challenge the behavior and attitude of clients especially with regard to ambivalence towards the disease of addiction.

• Have a clear understanding of 12-step recovery and incorporate it into creative healing assignments.

• Plan, design and facilitate a schedule of activities for scheduled groups.

• Attend meetings and case conferences to share ideas, expertise and good practice when needed.

• Keep up to date with administration by writing group notes and alert staff to any important information shared in group therapy.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

• Master’s degree from an accredited program in mental health, social work, or psychology with a specialty in clinical practice or with supervised postgraduate clinical experience consistent with licensure.

• Licensed to practice clinical discipline as required for an addiction professional in mental health, social work, psychology or related human service field; or in supervision for licensure (Master’s degree) in supervision for licensure requirements.

• Knowledge of the 12-step program of recovery.

• Relevant computer software and hardware applications proficiency – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Electronic Medical Records, Billing Systems and/or other scheduling applications; KIPU preferred.

SKILLS:

• Knowledge of state and federal statutes regarding patient confidentiality laws and workplace policies.

• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

• Ability to communicate well with patients, families, co-workers, etc.

• Ability to set priorities.

• Superior interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated proactive approaches to problem solving with strong decision-making capability.  

• Highly resourceful team player, with the ability to also be extremely effective independently.   

• Evidence of continued education and universal precautions

• Ability to work independently, as well as part of a team.

• Manage multiple tasks; ability to work accurately, with attention to detail.

• Ability to handle highly sensitive and confidential information.

• Ability to understand and follow safety procedures.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-energy environment.

• Maintain healthy boundaries.

• Knowledge of drug-free workplace policies.