Counselor I - (VSP)

As a Counselor I at Amity Foundation, your primary responsibilities include delivering treatment programming services, conducting group and individual therapy sessions, and engaging with participants daily. You will implement scheduled program curricula, create treatment/action plans, document participant progress, and ensure confidentiality in all clinical records. You'll also collaborate with other staff members and community resources to support participants in their recovery journey.

To become a Counselor I at Amity Foundation, you need a minimum of 6 months of experience providing Substance Use Disorder Treatment services as a certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor. A current AOD certification recognized by the Department of Health Care Services, or registration with an appropriate certifying body, is essential. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of substance abuse's behavioral and psychological effects and strong communication skills.

At Amity Foundation, you can expect a community-oriented workplace dedicated to social justice and transforming lives. The environment fosters collaboration among team members to support individuals dealing with substance abuse. You'll engage in continuous training and professional development, with ample opportunities to enhance your counseling skills in a supportive setting that values empathy and integrity.

Amity Foundation is committed to the professional growth of its Counselor I employees by offering ongoing training and development opportunities. You will participate in monthly cross-training, curriculum training, and technical assistance to enhance your skills. The organization encourages continuous learning in the field of substance abuse treatment, supporting your journey towards further certification and specialization.

As a Counselor I at Amity Foundation, you can expect a competitive hourly wage ranging from $26.25 to $28.35, depending on your certification status. The organization also offers a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid vacation, sick time, holidays, and a 401K plan. This reflects Amity’s commitment to the well-being of its employees.

When asked about your experience, focus on providing specific examples of your work with individuals facing substance abuse issues. Talk about the therapeutic modalities you have used, such as motivational interviewing or cognitive-behavioral therapy, and share any success stories that highlight your effectiveness as a Counselor.

Discuss your strategies for maintaining a calm and professional demeanor in challenging situations. Emphasize the importance of listening, empathy, and de-escalation techniques, explaining how you ensure both the safety of participants and your commitment to their recovery.

Highlight your knowledge and experience in various therapeutic techniques, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. Explain how you have successfully applied these methods in your past roles and how they can be beneficial in the setting you are applying for.

Mention your commitment to professional development through workshops, training sessions, and research. Explain how you engage with professional networks, attend conferences, or utilize online resources to keep your knowledge updated, ensuring you provide evidence-based practices.

Share your methodical approach to creating treatment plans that consider individual client needs. Highlight your emphasis on collaboration with clients in developing achievable goals, and mention how you adjust plans based on ongoing evaluations and client feedback.

Explain your understanding of confidentiality and its importance in therapeutic settings. Discuss the specific practices you implement to safeguard client records and personal information while also fulfilling any mandatory reporting obligations.

Discuss your belief in the value of teamwork in delivering effective counseling services. Provide examples of successful collaborations with colleagues and other professionals to enhance the effectiveness of treatment for individuals in recovery.

Talk about your strategies for building rapport and trust with clients. Emphasize utilizing motivational interviewing and setting up a structured environment that encourages participation. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully engaged clients in past experiences.

Identify some common challenges, such as resistance from clients or managing emotional burnout. Discuss strategies you use to address these challenges, such as regular supervision, self-care practices, and utilizing peer support networks.

Articulate your passion for this line of work and your desire to make a difference. Discuss specific goals, such as impacting clients' lives positively, contributing to professional growth at Amity, and helping improve the overall effectiveness of the treatment program.