Substance Abuse Specialist - ABB007 - Mon - Fri 9AM -5PM

About WellLife Network: WellLife Network is a leading health and human services organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Recognized as a 2023 top-rated nonprofit, WellLife Network empowers people to overcome life’s challenges and achieve greater independence, well-being, and inclusion. We offer a comprehensive suite of programs spanning mental health, developmental disabilities, substance abuse, housing, and employment support, all grounded in a commitment to compassionate, high-quality care. Central to our mission is an unwavering dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) within our organization and in the communities we serve. As a trusted community partner, WellLife Network fosters a nurturing environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and realize their fullest potential Position Summary: A clinical staff member who, in addition to performing routine team duties, has lead responsibility for integrating dual diagnosis treatment for those with a substance use disorder with the tasks of all team members and for providing substance abuse treatment individually and in groups.

1. Conducts assessment of all dual diagnosed program participants to assess areas of need; assists in the development of individual services plans for the dual diagnosis consumer, participates in the bi-annual reviews.

2. Initiates, conducts and follows up the process of periodic drug/alcohol screens; leads or colead psychoeducational/substance abuse educational groups; facilitates and monitors participation in various self-help groups including substance abuse support groups, NA, AA; guides the coordination of appropriate medical, psychiatric, substance abuse services.

3. Meets routinely with the dual diagnosed participants and management team to review goal progress, identifies participants needs and updates program plan; participates actively as a member of inter-disciplinary program planning team.

4. Provides networking and linkages between the programs, mental health providers, and alcohol and drug treatment communities, requires both telephone and face-to-face contact;

5. Develop treatment plans with the input of other members of the ACT team and the consumers.

6. Coordinate case management services in order to ensure comprehensive development of an individuals service plan.

7. Coordinate services with other specialist on the ACT Team, i.e. Family specialist, Employment specialist, Nurse, Case manager.

8. Provides networking and linkages between the programs, mental health providers, requires both telephone and face-to-face contact;

9. Attend and participate in all team meetings.

10. Responsible for input into CAIRS upon admission, bi-annually and discharge.

11. Act as a clinical liaison between the team and outside entities.

12. Document any progress notes in EHR within 48 hours of all client and collateral contacts.

13. Ensure all documentation is completed in a timely fashion and remain in compliance with agency, OMH, and AOT regulations.

14.  Assists in the planning, developing and implementation of goals and training to further develop participants skills, including but not limited to:

    1. Budgeting

    2. Grooming

    3. Nutritional planning

    4. Use of public transportation

    5. Use of community resources

    6. Shopping

    7. Housekeeping

    8. Physical health & development

    9. Adaptive behavior/independent living

    10. Nutrition

    11. Vocational development

    12. Social development

15. Acts as a role model for participants; furthers participants in researching and obtaining community resources appropriate and applicable to their needs and goals; follows-up on any aftercare/recommendations for treatment. Escorts/ accompanies participant as needed on appointments (medical, psychiatric, substance abuse).

16. Provide crisis intervention and mental health counseling as needed.

Other Responsibilities:

1. Demonstrate ability to: maintain required written documentations; communicate relevant information to other staff and supervisor(s), verbally and in writing.

2. Ability to work flexible schedules as work schedules, trainings and location are subject to change

3. Ability to operate an agency vehicle.

4. Attend all required trainings and any relevant to the position or deemed necessary by Team Leader.

5. Participate in activities of other staff members in their absence or during periods of staff shortage.

6. Maintain confidentiality at all times.

7. This does not limit the assignment of duties or exclude the performance of other duties not mentioned as assigned by supervisor, the Team Leader, Deputy Director, Director, and/or Senior Management.

8. Responsible for reporting and documenting all incidents to immediate supervisor within 24 hours.

9. Provide 24-hour/seven day a week emergency coverage via emergency cell phone to provide crisis intervention services after program hours on a rotating basis.

• Masters Degree in social work, mental health or marriage and family therapy or a CASAC required.

• Two years experience working with Mental Health and Substance Abuse consumers preferred.

• Experience working with behavioral health population preferred.

• Computer proficiency, including the ability to use email, navigate and enter all documentation into electronic medical record.

• Valid New York State drivers license and vehicle required candidates are subject to regulatory background checks and must be willing to utilize own vehicle for home visits.

Benefits and Perks: At WellLife Network, we prioritize our employees' growth and well-being with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, 401(k) matching, and flexible spending accounts. Enjoy perks like Summer Fridays, gym passes, and life insurance options. Our commitment to career advancement includes tuition assistance, mentorship, leadership training, and more. As a qualifying employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, WellLife Network supports your career and financial goals while helping you make a meaningful community impact. Join us to experience a workplace that invests in your success and well-being!