Drug & Alcohol Counselor

Drug and Alcohol CounselorPosition Overview

The Drug and Alcohol (D&A) Counselor leads the delivery of evidence-based programming designed to reduce substance use and increase long-term success among the youth we serve. This role works directly with students, families, schools, juvenile probation, and community partners to provide mentorship, accountability, and wraparound support.

The ideal candidate is relationship-driven, organized, and able to engage youth in a trauma-informed and strengths-based manner while maintaining consistency, structure, and professionalism in high-stress environments.

Student Support & Case Management

• Build meaningful relationships with at-risk and justice-involved youth through mentorship, accountability, and consistent support.
• Utilize trauma-informed practices to de-escalate conflict, maintain healthy boundaries, and create safe environments for students.
• Maintain individualized knowledge of each student’s goals, barriers, and support needs.
• Coordinate wraparound support services with guardians, schools, probation officers, and partner agencies.
• Lead student intake processes, manage referrals, and collaborate with leadership on student discharge planning.
• Represent students and Bench Mark Program during school meetings, multidisciplinary team meetings, court appearances, and partner agency discussions.

Program Facilitation & Delivery

• Facilitate evidence-based drug and alcohol prevention/intervention curriculum in individual and group settings.
• Create engaging and structured lesson plans that encourage student participation and accountability.
• Assist with planning and managing monthly program schedules, activities, and special events.
• Ensure all sessions are prepared with materials, lesson plans, and clear execution strategies.
• Support the ongoing development and expansion of resources and opportunities available to students in the program.
• Train and support staff or volunteers assisting with program implementation.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate attendance records, case notes, and student documentation.
• Prepare monthly attendance, participation, and progress reports for leadership and referral sources.
• Communicate updates regularly with schools, probation officers, and community partners.
• Develop and track SMART goals aligned with Bench Mark Program’s strategic priorities and desired student outcomes.
• Utilize program metrics and reporting systems to evaluate effectiveness and identify areas for growth.

General Staff Expectations

• Represent Bench Mark Program professionally with students, families, donors, volunteers, and community stakeholders.
• Maintain a team-oriented mindset by supporting additional programs or organizational needs when necessary.
• Help maintain cleanliness, organization, and stewardship of shared spaces and resources.
• Ensure proper use and cleanliness of Bench Mark Program vehicles, including refueling and reporting maintenance concerns promptly.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Criminal Justice, Human Services, or a related field preferred.
• Master’s degree or certification in a related field is a plus.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in a drug and alcohol, behavioral health, or youth-serving setting.
• Experience working with at-risk, justice-involved, or underserved youth strongly preferred.

Knowledge & Skills

• Understanding of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Informed Care, and Stages of Change principles.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities within a fast-paced, team-centered environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documentation and reporting.

Benefits

• SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with employer matching
• 20 paid time off days beginning after the first 90 days of employment
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 24/7 access to gym spaces

Reporting Structure: This position reports directly to the Program Director.

Pay: $57,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person