Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor

Job Title: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor

Organization: Redefining the Future Network, Inc. (RTFNetwork)
Location: Baltimore, Maryland (Hybrid – In-office and remote flexibility)
Reports To: SUD Program Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time (Exempt)

About RTFNetwork

Redefining the Future Network, Inc. (RTFNetwork) is a behavioral health organization committed to providing compassionate, trauma-informed, and person-centered services to children, adolescents, and adults across Baltimore City and surrounding communities. RTFNetwork offers a continuum of care that includes Outpatient Mental Health (OMHC), Psychiatric Rehabilitation (PRP), Medication Management, and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) services. Our mission is to empower individuals and families to redefine their futures through evidence-based, culturally responsive treatment and support.

Position Summary

The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides comprehensive assessment, counseling, case management, relapse prevention, and recovery support services to clients with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The Counselor will use evidence-based practices, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed approaches to support client recovery and stabilization. This position requires compliance with Maryland state credentialing requirements and ethical standards established by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists (BOPC).

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial and SUD assessments using ASAM criteria to determine level of care and service needs.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessed needs, client goals, and strengths.
• Provide individual, group, and family counseling utilizing evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Relapse Prevention.
• Facilitate psychoeducational and process groups on recovery topics (e.g., triggers, coping skills, relapse prevention).
• Monitor client progress and adjust treatment plans as needed, ensuring documentation meets COMAR and Joint Commission standards.
• Collaborate with the interdisciplinary team including psychiatrists, licensed clinicians, PRP staff, and case managers.
• Conduct crisis intervention and coordination of care when necessary.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation within TheraNest or the agency’s electronic health record (EHR).
• Participate in weekly supervision, clinical team meetings, and professional development opportunities.
• Adhere to all HIPAA, COMAR, and Maryland Board of Professional Counselors regulations and RTFNetwork policies.
• Promote a recovery-oriented, culturally competent, and trauma-informed care environment that supports client empowerment and dignity.

Qualifications

Education & Licensure (Maryland Requirements):

• Must hold at least one of the following active credentials recognized by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists (BOPC):
  • Certified Supervised Counselor – Alcohol & Drug (CSC-AD)
  • Certified Associate Counselor – Alcohol & Drug (CAC-AD)
  • Licensed Graduate Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LGADC)
  • Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LCADC)
• Candidates actively pursuing certification or licensure (with Board-approved supervision) may be considered.
• Must meet COMAR 10.58.07 training and education requirements for substance use disorder professionals.
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, or related field required; master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

• At least one year of experience providing counseling or case management to individuals with substance use or co-occurring disorders.
• Experience working in an outpatient behavioral health or community mental health setting preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct group and individual counseling sessions.
• Proficiency in electronic documentation systems (TheraNest preferred).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong understanding of ASAM criteria, DSM-5-TR diagnostic categories, and co-occurring disorder treatment.
• Ability to apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive care principles.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries, ethics, and confidentiality.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple cases effectively.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Hybrid work schedule with a combination of office-based, virtual, and community-based services.
• Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods.
• May occasionally require local travel for outreach or client coordination.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: Commensurate with education and experience.
• Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; professional development and CEU reimbursement; supervision toward advanced licensure (as applicable).

Equal Opportunity Employer

Redefining the Future Network, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience in recovery.