Field-Based AOD Counselor

GET TO KNOW US:

For over 100 years, Vista Del Mar Child & Family Services (VDM) has taken great pride in providing exceptional programs and services for children and families throughout LA County. VDM envisions a community where all children and families are equipped and prepared to live productive, fulfilling lives. We serve the most vulnerable in Los Angeles, many of whom have faced multi-generational inequities. Vista Del Mar is guided by core values of empowerment, equity, and excellence.

CULTURE:

At Vista Del Mar, our success is empowered by our staff, families, residents, and clients. We believe in the inclusion and liberation of marginalized communities, standing in unity for justice and recognizing long-standing systemic oppression. We acknowledge we are part of an unjust system and strongly advocate to change oppressive systems and the unconscious bias that affect staff, clients, and families in all communities. Vista is committed to developing a culture of healing, community care, and creating a sense of belonging. Our actions will be louder than our words.

Folks who are Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQ+, of a marginalized gender, disabled, parents, are/have been system-impacted, are immigrants, and anyone who has experienced systemic oppression, and/or gender-based violence are encouraged to apply.

MISSION:

Vista Del Mar provides a trauma-responsive continuum of services to empower children, youth, and families in Southern California to lead fulfilling lives.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Field-Based Certified SUD Counselor provides direct intervention, prevention education, and recovery support services to students dealing with substance use and co-occurring disorders within community-based settings. This role bridges clinical care and community-based environments, including educational settings, working collaboratively with staff, families, and external providers to promote student wellness, engagement, and academic success.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

• Provide individual and group counseling to students addressing substance use and related behavioral issues utilizing a strong understanding of motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and recovery-oriented services.
• Develop and implement individualized recovery plans based on student needs and goals in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.
• Deliver evidence-based Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug (ATOD) prevention education in classroom settings and group formats.
• Coordinate with school personnel, FSSM Site Coordinator, and FSSM SBS Manager to identify students in need of support, utilizing referral systems and intervention frameworks.
• Assist students in identifying triggers, patterns of use, relapsed risks, and healthy coping strategies.
• Offer support in recovery and relapse prevention, including self-monitoring and positive decision- making skills.
• Serve as a liaison to families, helping them understand substance use dynamics and engage in the student’s recovery process.
• Provide referrals to outside treatment providers, medical professionals, and support networks such as 12-step groups.
• Participate in Student Support Team meetings, Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan meetings when relevant.
• Maintain timely and confidential documentation for assessments, treatment planning, service notes, and progress reports.
• Demonstrate an understanding and practice of relationship-based treatment, Character Counts values, strength-based, MI, Seeking Safety, and CBT treatment modality models while incorporating trauma-informed, and culturally/LGBTQ-sensitive approach in working with youth.
• Ability to work independently within a school system, adapt services to meet student needs in an academic environment, and to engage and support diverse student populations.

WHAT YOU BRING TO VDM

• Minimum 1-year documented experience working with adolescents with substance abuse issues.
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with youth in school, residential, or clinical setting.
• Certification as a CADC-I or higher through CCAPP, CAADE, or similar recognized certifying body.
• Training and experience in adolescent development, trauma-informed care, and co-occurring disorders preferred.

Salary - $55,000-$60,320

What Can We Offer You for All Your Hard Work?

• Full benefits offered (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• FSA/Dependent Care and Supplemental benefits through The Standard
• 403(b) – 3% Employer contribution based off annual salary
• 4 Mental Health Days
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays
• Up to 25% for Cell Phone Discounts with 3 Major Carriers (AT&T, Verizon, Sprint

Vista Del Mar’s Credentials:

Our nationally recognized clinical programs have been awarded a Gold Seal by the Joint Commission, the highest level of accreditation possible. In addition, our educational facilities are fully accredited through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), and our graduate degree program is recognized worldwide for its high quality of instructions.

Equal Employment Statement

Vista Del Mar is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. Therefore, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Vista Del Mar will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations as part of this commitment.