Counselor III - (VSP)

As a Counselor III at Amity Foundation, your main responsibilities include delivering rehabilitative programming services, conducting group and individual therapy sessions, and facilitating treatment plans for participants. You'll engage with inmates daily, maintain participant records, evaluate progress, and help prepare them for community reentry. Collaboration with other staff, including the CDCR and transition teams, is also a vital part of the job.

To qualify for the Counselor III position at Amity Foundation, you’ll need a Master’s degree in a social service-related field and a license from the Board of Behavioral Sciences or an AOD certifying organization. Alternatively, you can have a Bachelor's or an Associate’s degree with corresponding certification and experience in providing Substance Use Disorder Treatment (SUDT) services. A strong understanding of substance abuse effects and excellent communication skills are essential.

Amity Foundation supports the professional development of Counselor III employees through ongoing training and collaborative learning opportunities. Counselors are encouraged to participate in various training sessions, such as block training and technical assistance, to enhance their skills and knowledge related to substance abuse treatment and community recovery strategies.

Counselor III employees at Amity Foundation utilize a range of therapeutic interventions, including motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy. These methods aim to engage participants effectively and support their recovery journey by addressing behavioral patterns and fostering personal growth during their rehabilitation.

The work environment for a Counselor III at Amity Foundation is dynamic and collaborative. You’ll work directly within prison facilities, engaging with participants in meaningful ways and collaborating with various staff, including supervisors and regional directors. The foundation's commitment to community action and social justice creates a supportive atmosphere for both staff and participants.

Building rapport with participants is crucial in this role. I focus on creating a trusting and safe environment by being attentive, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe effective communication, active listening, and showing genuine interest in their recovery stories help establish a strong connection that encourages openness and engagement.

In my previous roles, I have employed motivational interviewing as a foundational therapeutic approach. It involves asking open-ended questions, affirming patient strengths, reflective listening, and summarizing their thoughts to gently guide them toward self-discovery and motivation for change. This has proven effective in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship.

Managing conflicts during group therapy sessions requires a calm and calculated approach. I emphasize setting clear group rules and expectations at the beginning. If a conflict arises, I address it by facilitating an open dialogue and encouraging participants to express their feelings while reminding them of the therapeutic goals to create understanding and resolution.

I develop treatment plans based on initial assessments and individual participant goals. This process involves collaborating with participants to identify their challenges and strengths. I regularly review and adjust these plans as needed, ensuring they remain relevant and focused on progressing toward recovery outcomes.

I believe that accurate and timely documentation is crucial for effective treatment. I ensure detailed records of each participant's progress, treatment plans, and any observed behavioral changes. Adhering to confidentiality protocols is also a priority, as it builds trust with the participants while meeting regulatory requirements.

I stay informed about the latest best practices in substance abuse treatment by engaging in continuous professional development. This includes attending conferences, participating in workshops, and reading relevant literature. I also collaborate with colleagues to share insights and approaches that enhance our service delivery.

In one challenging situation, a participant was resistant to the treatment process. I addressed this by calmly discussing their concerns and validating their feelings. I then worked with them to identify their motivations for attending the program, which helped pivot their perspective and encourage their active involvement in the sessions.

Empathy plays a central role in my work. It allows me to connect with participants, understand their experiences, and respond to their needs effectively. By showing empathy, I can create a supportive environment where participants feel valued, heard, and motivated to engage in their recovery journey.

I assess the effectiveness of treatment programs through ongoing evaluation of participant outcomes, feedback from sessions, and measurable progress in achieving treatment goals. I also consider group dynamics and participant engagement rates, as they play significant roles in determining overall program success.

My motivation to work in substance abuse counseling stems from a passion for helping others. I find fulfillment in witnessing participants make positive changes in their lives. The opportunity to contribute to a supportive environment, like that at Amity Foundation, drives me to facilitate healing and empowerment in those navigating recovery.