Behavioral Health Consultant-Substance Use Disorder

Job Summary:

This Substance Use Disorder Behavioral Health Consultant focuses on providing specialized behavioral health support to primary care patients experiencing substance use challenges. As part of an interdisciplinary care team at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), this role contributes to delivering comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally competent care to underserved populations. This position requires a commitment to providing services through a consultative Primary Care Behavioral Health model that ensures substance use disorder treatment is highly accessible, integrated, and patient centered.

: Creston/Wyoming

: Behavioral Health Manager

Description of Duties/Responsibilities

Comprehensive Assessment and Treatment Planning:

• Conduct thorough assessments of patients' substance use, mental health, and overall health needs.
• Develop individualized, patient-centered treatment plans in collaboration with the rest of the primary care team, integrating substance use care with broader healthcare goals, including physical health management and chronic disease prevention.
• Identify and refer patients to a higher level of care when clinically appropriate.

Counseling and Support:

· Provide evidence-based individual and group counseling to patients, utilizing approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relapse Prevention, Pyscho-Education, and Contingency Management.

· Deliver services consistent with a PCBH model that emphasizes high quality accessible care

· Address not only substance use issues but also co-occurring mental health conditions, chronic illnesses, and social determinants of health that may impact recovery.

Collaboration within an Integrated Care Team:

· Participate in regular interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient progress, review treatment plans, and ensure that care is effectively integrated across all health needs. Collaborate with team members to manage complex cases, ensuring that substance use treatment is aligned with care for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, HIV, mental health disorders, and other chronic health conditions.

Prevention and Harm Reduction:

· Provide prevention-focused education on substance use, emphasizing harm reduction strategies, risk factors, and resources for long-term recovery. Educate patients on how substance use impacts physical health and recovery from other chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease or HIV.

Resource Navigation and Community Outreach:

· Assist patients in navigating healthcare systems and coordinate with community partners and local organizations to ensure patients have access to comprehensive services that support recovery and overall health.

Documentation and Reporting:

· Maintain thorough, accurate, and confidential patient records in the health center’s Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, ensuring documentation of treatment plans, progress notes, referrals, and outcomes. Provide regular reports to meet federal and state regulations and quality improvement initiatives.

Culturally Competent, Trauma-Informed Care:

· Approach all patient interactions with cultural humility and sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of FQHC patients. Provide trauma-informed care, recognizing the impact of past and ongoing trauma on substance use and overall health.

Compliance with FQHC Regulations:

· Adhere to all federal, state, and organizational guidelines for care delivery, documentation, and patient confidentiality. Stay informed about FQHC policies, regulations, and funding requirements related to substance use services, including the use of Medicaid, Medicare, and sliding scale fees.

Minimum Position Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW), Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
• Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or similar certification/license required.
• At least 2 years of experience in substance use counseling, with a preference for experience in integrated care settings, especially within FQHCs or community health centers.
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor preferred.
• Please note that this position requires a comprehensive background check as part of our commitment to patient safety and organizational integrity. Candidates with lived experience are encouraged to apply, and we welcome open discussions about any past experiences

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience Requirements

· In-depth knowledge of substance use disorders, harm reduction principles, and recovery models.

• Experience working in a collaborative, team-based care environment, particularly in primary care or community health settings.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, for effectively engaging with patients and interdisciplinary team members.
• Proficiency with Electronic Health Records (EHR) and understanding of healthcare regulations.
• Ability to provide culturally competent care to diverse populations, including those from underserved or marginalized communities.
• Comfort in working with complex cases, including those with co-occurring disorders, homelessness, and other social determinants of health.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, handle a high caseload, and work in a fast-paced environment.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Work Location: In person