Support Specialist / Trauma-Informed Counselor

• Substance Use Disorder Support
• Demonstrate knowledge of substance use disorders, addiction, recovery processes, and evidence-based treatment approaches.
• Monitor residents' engagement in treatment and recovery activities.
• Assist residents in recognizing relapse warning signs and implementing prevention strategies.
• Collaborate with clinical providers and treatment partners to support continuity of care.
• Promote a recovery-oriented environment that supports long-term sobriety and wellness.

• Resident Advocacy and Support
• Serve as an advocate for residents while maintaining professional boundaries and program expectations.
• Assist residents with employment readiness, educational goals, community engagement, and independent living skills.
• Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support as needed.
• Support residents in navigating systems including parole, community supervision, healthcare, and social services.
• Participate in resident staffing meetings and interdisciplinary case reviews.

• Program Compliance and Documentation
• Maintain case files and documentation consistent with NJAC, NJDOC, licensing, contractual, and agency requirements.
• Complete progress notes, assessments, referrals, service plans, and discharge summaries within required timeframes.
• Participate in quality assurance activities and program audits.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA, agency policies, and professional ethical standards.

• Team Collaboration
• Collaborate with residential staff, program leadership, clinicians, parole representatives, community providers, and other stakeholders.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, supervision, and professional development activities.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and trauma-informed residential environment.

Qualifications

• Required
• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW), Counseling, Psychology, Human Services, or a related behavioral health field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience providing case management, counseling, or supportive services in a behavioral health, substance use, corrections, reentry, or residential setting.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care principles and gender-responsive programming.
• Knowledge of substance use disorders, recovery support practices, and relapse prevention strategies.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to establish professional relationships with justice-involved individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed.

• Preferred
• CADC or LCADC
• Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or License-Eligible Social Worker,.
• Experience working within residential treatment, corrections, parole, reentry, or substance use recovery programs.
• Training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, Seeking Safety, or other evidence-based trauma-informed practices.
• Experience facilitating psychoeducational or recovery groups.

• Core Competencies
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Substance Use Recovery Support
• Case Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Motivational Interviewing
• Resident Engagement
• Documentation and Compliance
• Cultural Competency
• Professional Ethics
• Collaboration and Teamwork

• Physical Requirements
• Ability to work within a residential setting.
• Ability to navigate stairs and multiple floors within the facility.
• Ability to respond to emergencies and crisis situations.
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Position Classification • Full-Time • Exempt • Reports to: Program Director or Clinical Supervisor

Salary Range

$45,000 - $55,000 annually