Counselor

Counselor – Sunset Ridge Program

Supporting Recovery. Empowering Women. Strengthening Families.

Job Summary

The Counselor provides comprehensive clinical and case management services to individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions enrolled in the Sunset Ridge Program—a Co-Occurring Enhanced Recovery Home for women, including specialized services for pregnant and postpartum individuals.

This role supports residents in building sustainable recovery, increasing self-sufficiency, and strengthening overall well-being. The Counselor also plays a key role in fostering a residential environment that is compassionate, structured, and rooted in accountability, dignity, and respect.

Responsibilities and Duties

Clinical Services & Treatment Planning

• Coordinate and implement individualized service plans, including individual and group substance use disorder counseling.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate treatment plans, goals, and educational programming for residents.
• Facilitate therapeutic groups using established, evidence-based curricula.
• Conduct weekly 50-minute individual counseling sessions and facilitate a minimum of four groups per week.
• Provide referrals and connect residents to community-based resources, including mental health and medical services.

Care Coordination & Resident Support

• Support residents in navigating external systems such as probation, parole, Department of Children and Families (DCF), and other service systems.
• Assist residents in addressing legal matters and meeting external requirements.
• Assist with admissions and discharges in accordance with program policies and procedures.
• Provide crisis intervention and support during clinically challenging situations.
• Assist with transportation for residents as needed.

Compliance, Safety & Documentation

• Understand and comply with mandated reporting requirements for suspected abuse or neglect in accordance with M.G.L. Chapter 119, Section 51A.
• Adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and agency policies regarding confidentiality, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation of all clinical services.

Team Collaboration & Community Engagement

• Participate in weekly staff meetings, case conferences, and multidisciplinary team discussions.
• Network and represent GAAMHA and the Sunset Ridge Program in the community in a professional and mission-driven manner.
• Contribute to a positive team culture that reflects the agency’s values and commitment to high-quality care.

Other Duties

• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support program operations and resident success.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a residential treatment setting.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Must hold or be eligible for CADC or LADC certification.
• Working knowledge of mutual aid support groups and commitment to a multiple pathways to recovery philosophy.
• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills with demonstrated cultural competence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and web-based clinical systems.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Must pass CORI and Adam Walsh/CPS background checks.
• Candidates with lived experience in recovery must have at least two (2) years of continuous sobriety.

Supervision Given

None.

Supervision Received

The Counselor is supervised by the Clinical Supervisor.

Schedule

To Be Determined.