Overview

Reporting Relationship(s):Position reports to the Prevention Program Manager FLSA Classification:Non-ExemptGeneral SummaryPrevention Counselors provide evidenced based programing (EBP's) in classrooms, groups and individual sessions with students/youth at risk for substance use in school-based settings. They provide time-limited, prevention-focused individual and group counseling, classroom education, consultation, and referral services to adolescents and families participating in a school-based substance use and problem gambling prevention and early intervention program. Services include initial screening, risk/protective factor assessment, referral, and service planning. Prevention Counselors support student mental health and well-being, promote informed decision-making, and collaborate with school staff and community providers. Services are not clinical treatment or therapy and do not serve individuals with an existing diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) or Problem Gambling Disorder.Duties and Responsibilities1. Provide prevention counseling services to individuals, groups, and families, with attention to developmental and cultural appropriateness.2. Conduct screenings and assessments using OASAS-approved tools to evaluate risk and protective factors related to substance misuse and/or problem gambling.3. Determine service eligibility and admission criteria; refer students who fall outside prevention scope to appropriate treatment or support services.4. Develop and implement short-term individualized service plans with specific, time-limited goals based on assessment findings.5. Monitor and document participant progress toward service plan goals; ensure timely disposition and discharge planning.6. Collaborate with school personnel, community providers, and families to coordinate services and support student needs.7. Serve as a mental health/substance use prevention consultant to school staff; participate in school support teams and behavioral intervention meetings.8. Design and implement educational groups, awareness campaigns, and prevention activities for students, staff, families, and the broader school community.9. Provide crisis support in schools when needed.10. Maintain clear, accurate, and confidential participant records according to OASAS documentation as applicable. 11. Ensure all records conform to 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, and agency data privacy protocols. 12. Participate in peer consultation, case reviews, and professional development activities. 13. Complete all required program and/or funder training and all agency required training such as NYS Mandated Reporter and Sexual Harassment. 14. Report incidents in compliance with OASAS regulations.15. Participate in school and/or community functions such as Family Nights, Open House, Resource Fairs.16. Participate in staff meetings, agency meetings and events.Education and Licensure Requirements• Bachelor's degree in social work, Counseling, Public Health, Psychology, Human Services, or a related behavioral or social science field.• NYS licensure preferred, including LMSW, LCSW, LMFT, or LMHC.• NYS Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) preferred.• Experience in substance abuse, mental health, or prevention services preferred.• Related experience in counseling, school based and working with youth may be considered in lieu of certain credentials.Previous Experience Requirement• Minimum of one (1) year experience providing mental health or substance use counseling to youth (ages 12-21) in a school or community-based setting preferred.Knowledge and Skills Needed to Perform Effectively in this Position• Strong knowledge of OASAS prevention models, public health frameworks, and evidence-based practices.• Strong facilitation skills with experience delivering presentations and trainings to diverse audiences.• Proficiency in data entry, program evaluation, and outcome reporting; familiarity with WITNYS and EMR systems preferred.�