Outpatient Counselor
| Location | Gardena, CA |
| Date Posted | February 25, 2026 |
| Category |
Default
|
| Job Type |
Full-time
|
Description
Full job description
Summary Statement
Under the supervision of the Outpatient Coordinator, the Counselor I provides comprehensive clinical services within AADAP’s Outpatient Unit. Responsibilities include intake and assessment, individual, group, and family counseling, crisis intervention, referral, and case management. The Counselor I delivers services in accordance with established treatment protocols, agency policies, and all applicable county, state, and federal regulations.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesClient Screening and Assessment
Screen incoming calls and walk-in clients to determine appropriate level of care and services.
Conduct comprehensive assessments using the ASAM criteria to determine medical necessity and appropriate placement.
Complete all required screening, eligibility, intake, and consent documentation in a timely manner.
Conduct diagnostic assessments and develop individualized treatment and discharge plans.
Direct Clinical Services
Manage a caseload of approximately 15–20 Substance Use Disorder (SUD) clients.
Provide individual counseling sessions 2–3 times per week (in-person or via tele-health, as needed).
Facilitate 3–4 group sessions per week (in-person or via tele-health).
Maintain a minimum weekly productivity standard of 75% billable hours (approximately 30 billable hours per week).
Deliver services to adults and youth in outpatient, community-based, and field-based settings.
Implement treatment plans that include individual, group, and family counseling, as well as case management services.
Monitor client progress, complete treatment plan reviews, and update documentation in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
Utilize evidence-based practices including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Seeking Safety.
Case Management and Support Services
Provide crisis intervention and support, including services for COVID-19 impacted clients.
Conduct field-based SUD treatment services as needed.
Provide COVID-19-related case management, including testing referrals when appropriate.
Coordinate referrals and supportive services with internal staff and external community partners.
Engage clients in Recovery Support Services (RSS), including recreational outings and pro-social recovery activities.
Provide transportation to clients for approved activities using a personal vehicle, when required.
Documentation, Compliance, and Administrative Duties
Maintain accurate and timely documentation in compliance with agency, county, state, and federal guidelines, including Drug Medi-Cal and START-ODS requirements.
Utilize agency EHR systems and LA County documentation platforms.
Collaborate with Licensed Practitioners and the Medical Director for clinical consultation.
Review denied claims and coordinate with counselors and billing staff to resolve documentation or claim issues.
Submit reports and complete additional assignments as directed by the Supervisor.
Qualifications and Education RequirementsRequired Qualifications
California Certified or Registered Alcohol and Drug Counselor OR a Master’s degree in Social Work or related Social Services field.
Knowledge of and experience with evidence-based practices such as CBT and MI.
Knowledge of ASAM criteria and familiarity with EHR systems (e.g., SAGE, Exym, or similar platforms).
Knowledge of Drug Medi-Cal and START-ODS standards, policies, and procedures.
Ability to obtain a National Provider Identifier (NPI).
Valid California Driver’s License, proof of minimum automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
Minimum of three (3) years of recovery or a drug-free lifestyle at time of application.
Demonstrated computer proficiency.
Ability to pass FBI/DOJ/OIG background clearance.
Completion of physical examination and TB test within one (1) week of hire.
Proof of work authorization in the United States.
Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual and/or bicultural in Los Angeles County threshold languages, including: Arabic, Armenian, Cantonese, Farsi, Urdu, Khmer (Cambodian), Korean, Mandarin, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and other Chinese languages.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations across age, gender identity, sexual orientation, cultural, spiritual, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, colleagues, clients, families, schools, and community organizations.
Professional demeanor, punctuality, and reliability.
Flexibility to adjust work schedules to meet program needs.
Physical Requirements
This position is classified as Light Duty. The employee must be able to:
Remain in a stationary position approximately 50% of the time, including repetitive computer-based data entry.
Frequently communicate with clients and coworkers and exchange accurate information.
Occasionally lift up to 10 pounds.
Perform occasional bending, stooping, squatting, and ascending/descending stairs or ladders.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to contribute to impactful community-based programs while working in a collaborative and supportive team environment. The Program Assistant plays a vital role in ensuring our programs operate smoothly and effectively.
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
AADAP, INC. IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND ADHERES TO HIRING PRACTICES IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL AND STATE REGULATIONS.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $23.00 - $33.39 per hour
Benefits:
401(k)
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person
