Substance Use Counselor – Outpatient Care

About the role

The Substance Use Counselor provides comprehensive counseling and case management to a diverse, often low‑income or homeless population in an outpatient primary‑care setting. The role works within a multidisciplinary team to deliver harm‑reduction‑focused treatment for opioid, alcohol, and other substance use disorders.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct assessments using DSM‑IV, ASAM, ASI and determine appropriate level of care.
• Provide evidence‑based counseling (Seeking Safety, Relapse Prevention, CBT) alongside medication‑assisted treatment (MAT).
• Educate patients, families and community members about FDA‑approved medications for opioid and alcohol use disorder.
• Coordinate with MAT providers, behavioral health workers, and external agencies to ensure comprehensive care.
• Maintain accurate documentation, enter data for grant reporting, and uphold HIPAA confidentiality.

Required profile

• Certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor (CADTP, CCAPP) or Associate/Master’s Social Work degree with SUD certification.
• Two years of experience in healthcare or substance‑abuse counseling, preferably with low‑income or homeless populations.
• Valid California driver’s license, insurance and clean driving record.
• Strong written, oral and organizational skills.

Required skills

• Proficiency with ASAM, ASI, DSM‑IV assessment tools.
• Knowledge of Drug Medi‑Cal (DMC) and Los Angeles County SAPC systems.
• Training in trauma‑informed, harm‑reduction, and evidence‑based therapies (Matrix, Seeking Safety, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Nurturing Parenting Program).

What we offer

• Competitive salary $51,038–$57,745 annually.
• Monthly allowance for medical, dental and vision premiums (30+ hours/week).
• Sick leave, vacation, 13 paid holidays, 401(k) Safe Harbor Profit Sharing.
• Mileage reimbursement, short‑ and long‑term disability, life insurance, employee parking.