Licensed Addictions Counselor
Native American Development Corporation·Billings, Montana
Native American Development Corporation·Billings, Montana
Provide outpatient substance abuse counseling services, including assessments, individual and group therapy, and crisis intervention. Manage a caseload in compliance with licensing standards while collaborating with integrated care medical teams.
As a Licensed Addiction Counselor, the position provides outpatient level I and II services. Responsible for managing assigned caseload in compliance within scope of licensing, and under the supervision of the Licensed Addiction Counselor Supervisor. Assess and treat individuals with substance abuse problems. Activities may include individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, case management, client advocacy, prevention, and education. Essential Duties, Responsibilities and Expectations:
Conducts substance use assessments within scope of practice/license to aid treatment planning, utilizing appropriate instruments. Interview clients, review records, document patient encounters in electronic health record (EHR) or confer with other professionals to evaluate the mental or physical condition of clients or patients. Collaborate with physicians or nurses to plan and/or coordinate treatment, drawing on substance use knowledge and experience. Works with the primary care medical team as part of the integrated care model to support substance use screenings such as SBIRT, AUDIT-C, or other substance use counseling brief interventions.
Maintains in-person and tele-health productivity with patients, providing ASAM evaluations, chemical dependency counseling. Provides effective and efficient substance use counseling services using best practice standards. Provides substance use treatment outpatient level I and II including outreach as clinically indicated. Uses motivational interviewing, stages of change theory, family and system focused interventions, stage-wide treatment strategies to intervene, and motivate patients. Provides individual (one-on-one) and group support, system navigation for patients and their families, provides resources, referrals, and requests for assistance. Counsel clients in individual or group sessions to assist them in dealing with substance use, homelessness, poverty, unemployment, or physical abuse. Monitor, evaluate, and record client progress regarding treatment goals. Provide psychoeducation materials to family members to assist in understanding, dealing with, or supporting the patient in treatment. Educate community partners about BUIHWC substance use program and availability of community resources. Assist clients in adhering to treatment plans, such as setting up appointments, arranging for transportation to appointments, or providing case management support. Plan or conduct programs to prevent substance abuse, combat social problems, and improve health outcomes for the Billings Urban Indian population.
Treatment
Plans/Referrals: Make appropriate referrals to mental health providers for assessment and treatment when necessary. Refer patients to healthcare providers and other community resources as appropriate to help improve patient outcomes. Supports utilization management and review activities as part of improved patient care and quality assurance. Modify treatment plans according to changes in patient status.
Keeps organized and detailed documentation such as treatment plans, intake assessments, and progress notes in EHR. Other duties as assigned.
Minimum
Qualifications (Experience/Education): Associate degree in human services or directly related field plus a minimum of two (2) years of experience working with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health - 5th Edition (DSM-V) and/or American Society of Addictive Medicine (ASAM) substance use disorders is required. Licensed with the state of Montana as Licensed Addiction Counselor or Addiction Counselor Licensure Candidate Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in psychology, social work, social services, or other clinical behavioral science preferred. Required minimum of one year's experience working in outpatient substance abuse setting. Will consider Addictions Counselor Licensed Candidate (ACLC) but prefer Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) for the position. Ability to pass a background and driver’s license check upon offer of employment. Montana Driver’s licensed with good driving record and proof of auto liability insurance if required.
Comprehensive knowledge of DSM-V/ASAM patient placement criteria and levels of care. Comprehensive knowledge of addiction, theoretical models of therapeutic change processes, and best practice clinical practices. Increase substance abuse knowledge by reviewing current literature, conducting research, or attending seminars, training workshops, or classes. Thorough knowledge of legal and ethical performance standards and their application. Working knowledge of office practices and procedures, programs, and services. Skilled in interpersonal relationships and conflict management. Cross-cultural skills, experience with culturally diverse populations. Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills. Familiarity with recovery-based projects and services preferred.
Physical Demands & Working Conditions: In a typical work setting, substance use disorder counselors:
Requires an associate degree in human services or a related field and a Montana license as an Addiction Counselor or candidate. Minimum of two years of experience with DSM-V/ASAM and one year in an outpatient setting is required.
Market context
Behavioral health positions in Montana often reflect steady demand in community, residential, and support settings, especially for candidates who can work directly with clients and document care accurately. These roles can be competitive because employers commonly look for reliable transportation, clear background check eligibility, and basic computer skills alongside a high school diploma or HSE. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, and confirm your driving record and documentation are ready before applying.
