Registered AOD Counselor I (All Shifts)

Aod i counselor – job description

About CLARE|MATRIX

CLARE|MATRIX “CM” is a nonprofit organization providing effective and compassionate treatment, recovery, and prevention services for alcoholism and substance use to individuals, families, and the community. Headquartered in Santa Monica, CA, CLARE|MATRIX maintains multiple facilities in the Southern California region.

Since 1970, CLARE|MATRIX has provided quality substance use and mental health treatment to individuals in treatment for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in Southern California.

SUMMARY

Under direct supervision, the AOD I Counselor as an entry level role works directly with participants each day, supporting them through the early stages of recovery by providing assessments, counseling, education, and crisis intervention. The counselor builds supportive relationships, helps participants stay engaged in treatment, and connects them to essential resources and services. This role maintains clear and timely documentation, works as part of a multidisciplinary team, and helps ensure a stable, supportive environment for all participants.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function, with or without reasonable accommodation. The information below provides an overview of the primary duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this role; however, it is not a comprehensive or exhaustive list. A full, detailed job description outlining all essential functions will be provided.

Tasks and responsibilities

• 1.
• Assist with participant screenings, intakes, and orientations.
• 2.
• Support group facilitation and participant engagement with supervision.
• 3.
• Provide supportive counseling and help participants stay involved in treatment.
• 4.
• Prepare draft documentation for review, including progress notes and treatment updates.
• 5.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to coordinated care.
• 6.
• Maintain a professional, recovery-focused environment.
• 7.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with participants in accordance with agency policies and ethical standards.
• 8.
• Complete documentation in real time or within required timeframes to support quality care, billing accuracy, and compliance with program expectations.
• 9.
• Ensure all documented services meet billing requirements and accurately reflect the service provided.