Preferred Behavioral Health Group
ADMISSIONS COUNSELOR
700 Airport Rd, Lakewood, NJ 08701
On-site · Full-time · $50k (as posted)
First seen by offpeak October 22, 2026
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If you are looking to make an impact by helping others, then Preferred Behavioral Health Group is the place for you! By joining our award-winning team, you will become part of the premier behavioral health organization in New Jersey. PBHG is a dynamic and innovative non-profit organization that was proudly named one of "THE BEST PLACES TO WORK IN NEW JERSEY" for 2024 and 2025 by NJBIZ! Our mission is to change lives and save lives across the state of New Jersey through a Trauma Informed Care culture.
Our staff is at the core of everything we do. We are dedicated to building a diverse team where employees feel a sense of belonging and are valued for their individual contributions. We encourage staff development and embrace a growth mindset. If you are interested in pursuing an exciting and rewarding career while being part of a recognized “Best Place to Work”, please submit your resume today for consideration!
Job Title: Admissions Counselor
Program: Recovery Support Services - MICA PC
location: 700 Airport Road, Lakewood New Jersey 08701
Position Type: Full Time
Salary: $50,000.00
Job Description/Summary
Performs comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments on adults 18+ seeking outpatient Recovery Support Services. Collaborates with Program Director regarding the assignment of clients to clinical staff. Provides referrals outside the department when appropriate.
Responsibilities
- · Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments and formulate diagnosis:
o Diagnosis is congruent with assessment content, and assessments completed in compliance with organization policy.
o Written assessments include, provisional diagnosis, risk category, level of compliance and preliminary treatment plan with recommendations for ongoing treatment.
o Assessing clients using the Addiction Severity Index in NJSAMS or other standardized clinical interview tool, and diagnosing clients for substance use disorder using the DSM-5
o Determining the appropriate level of care according to ASAM Criteria;
· Admits/Refers clients to agency program(s) or external service providers according to current needs and/or clinical recommendation
o Recommendations include identification of special treatment needs or referral of high-risk clients.
o Collaborates with Program Director regarding the assignment of clients to clinical staff.
Complete medical record documentation:
o Medical record documentation will comply with organization policy
o Records will reflect client contact within required time frames
o Records will reflect referrals for separate assessments as per policy
o Problem List will reflect current integration of client needs
Adheres to appointment and office assignment schedule;
Completes all necessary third-party billing documentation;
Ensures accuracy of caseload reports;
Participates in supervision and attends staff meetings as directed
Completes all Individual Service Plans with Adult Partial Care clients.
Competencies
- Must maintain required CPR/First Aid certification.
- Demonstrates computer proficiency as required by job function and duties.· Demonstrates the ability to follow policies and procedures as outlined in the HR Manual and Employee Handbook.
Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree in social work, mental health counseling, or another recognized mental health discipline
- Licensure: NJ licensure as LSW, LAC, LAMFT, LCSW, LPC, or LMFT,
- Experience: Working with adults with a wide range of emotional and behavioral needs
Pre- and Post-Employment Screening/Testing/Examinations:
- Candidates for this position must submit to a criminal history check.
- Candidates for this position must submit to drug and alcohol screening prior to employment, and in accordance with PBHG policy, thereafter.
- Employee must obtain a physical exam prior to start date, and every three years, thereafter.
- Employee must submit to Mantoux/TB testing prior to start date, and TB Symptom Assessment form annually, thereafter.
- Produce proof of Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine.
Comprehensive Benefits Package:
o Medical, Dental and Prescription Insurance
o 403(b) Retirement Plan
o Generous Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
o Long Term Disability Insurance
o Life and AD&D Insurance
o Employee Assistance Program
o Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account
o Voluntary Benefits, such as Vision Insurance, Aflac, Pet Insurance
o Staff Training and Development Opportunities
o Employee Referral Bonus program
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