CASAC

JOB SUMMARY: The Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) is a critical member of the multidisciplinary team, specializing in understanding and treating the complexities of addiction. The CASAC works in collaboration as part of a multidisciplinary team through triage, screening, assessment, interventions, discharge planning and follow-up services within 24-48 hours of discharge. The CSC is a 24/7/365 program for individuals in Mental Health/Substance Use Disorder (MH/SUD) crisis situations to access immediate, therapeutic support provided by peers and licensed behavior health professionals; and for access to community resources to support their recovery upon discharge., * ? Assist in the daily operations of the CSC by working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

• ? Provide CASAC support and advocacy to clients of all ages throughout their stay at the CSC, from admission through discharge, including aftercare follow-up: individual advocacy, empowerment, recovery support services, prevention, outreach, engagement, hospital diversion, information and referral, self-help, safety/crisis planning, planning for prevention of setbacks, relaxation, resource brokering, as well as health and wellness coaching.
• ? Care Coordinator Duties: Coordinate/refer client/family to community support services, including: mental health, substance use, peer support, medical care, housing, financial, legal, food, clothing. Provide information, resources and referrals related to the individual client’s need. Maintain ongoing communications with community partners; medical/social service professionals, criminal justice personnel and community organizations. Arrange transportation and/or teach client how to access community transportation supports.
• ? Offer planned programming (activities/groups) with clients that will support their recovery.
• ? Meet with clients one on one and in groups; including their family or guardian and support system.
• ? Provide therapeutic interventions as part of the interdisciplinary team; psychoeducation, crisis counseling, de-escalation.
• ? Provide addiction specific supports under the CASAC scope of practice: SUD and COD screenings, SUD assessments; SUD diagnostic impression, LOC as determined by LOCADTR; treatment planning, case management; crisis intervention, client education, referrals, reporting & recordkeeping, care coordination.
• ? Provide support to the client’s family and support system throughout their stay.
• ? When working with children/adolescents, CASAC support may include parenting skills development, empowering families, coaching, engagement, bridging and transition support, self-advocacy, self-efficacy, community connections, and natural supports related to family support and engagement.
• ? Assist clients with accessing resources and community; provide information, resources and referrals.
• ? Assist clients with creating recovery goals during their stay and after discharge.
• ? Maintain accurate records and complete documentation of client services and progress during stay.
• ? Follow OMH and OASAS regulatory requirements and agency policies and procedures.
• ? Treat all clients with dignity and respect.
• ? Maintain professional boundaries.
• ? Demonstrate teamwork among co-workers.
• ? Flexibility with work schedule in the case of call-ins or scheduling issues.
• ? Attend staff meetings and trainings.

Daily Operations (90%)

Do you have a valid Driver’s License license?, Do you have experience in Working with individuals with substance use disorders?, Do you have a High school diploma or GED?, * Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) credential from NYS OASAS; current and active.

• Minimum of a high school diploma/GED with three years of relevant experience/knowledge base of mental health and substance recovery.

• Obtain the NYS Peer Specialist Certification within the 90-day orientation period.

• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record to drive agency vehicles as indicated.

• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries while working with clients.

• Successfully complete all required background and reference checks.

• Complete all state and agency required trainings within the 90-day orientation period; and annually, as required.

• Support the mission and vision of MHAST.

KNOWLEDGE/ SKILLS/ ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of mental health and/or substance use issues facing individuals of all ages.

• Support and advocate for individuals in crisis.

• Ability to handle crisis situations, traumatic events, or sensitive circumstances.

• Knowledge of community resources, services, and systems to assist in recovery/treatment of mental health and/or substance use.

• Understanding and sensitivity to support a diverse client population (race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, etc.).

• Ability to problem solve and use critical thinking skills.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal, written).

• Experience using an Electronic Health Record (HER) and documentation.

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Teams, Outlook, etc.).

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Short term residential crisis setting, office environment.

• Some exposure to cleaners, chemicals is expected.

• Physical requirements include walking, bending, standing, climbing stairs, and lifting (light/medium -up to 50 pounds).

• May need to work a flexible schedule, depending on staffing needs.

Pulled from the full job description

• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Employee assistance program, * Sign- On Bonus
• Medical ( Employer covers 90% of premium and 100% of deductible)
• Dental
• Vision
• Short Term and Long Term disability
• Optional FSA, Aflac
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Life Insurance
• 401k with Matching
• Flexible Schedule