Essential functions of an Addiction Counselor
To be successful in the Addiction Counseling program and to become employable, you must be able to perform essential functions expected of an addiction counselor (see list below). Please contact the Addiction Counselor program regarding questions or concerns about these requirements.
Part 1 – physical functions
- Physical ability to work in an office setting
- Ability to stand or sit at a desk for long periods
- Visual abilities to accurately perform duties
- Ability to read charts and computer monitors
- Hearing abilities to respond to clients and co-workers
- Hear and observe clients to ascertain information
Part 2 – technical functions
- Technology skills to perform job tasks
- Ability to use multi-line telephones, computer, fax, and copier
- Strong keyboarding skills (35+ wpm) and Microsoft Windows knowledge
- Proficiency in charting and documentation
- Proficiency in using electronic health record systems
Part 3 – academic and interpersonal functions
- Communication skills to accurately assess clients and communicate with others
- Strong verbal and written communication with clients, co-workers and the public in person, by phone and through email
- Competency in language, grammar, and spelling
- Ability to obtain and document client history, concerns and treatment plan
- Ability to understand and work under the direction of a supervisor
- Analytical and critical thinking skills
- Strong client assessment and treatment planning skills
- Ability to problem-solve and troubleshoot issues
- Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks
- Ability to accept responsibility and take initiative
- Ability to paraphrase and support clients in disclosing personal information
- Interpersonal skills
- Able to identify and maintain healthy interpersonal and professional boundaries
- Ability to interact and establish a good rapport with a diverse range of people, often in stressful situations
- A strong team player
- Compassionate, patient and tactful
- Empathetic
- Resilient; ability to remain positive and hopeful despite setbacks
- Positive response to instruction and supervision
- Professional attributes
- Ability to maintain client confidentiality
- Dependable
- Appear professional in dress and demeanor
- Take action to increase knowledge and develop skills
- Actively seeks supervision to ensure compliance with professional ethical standards
- Engages in regular and healthy self-care activities
ADA accommodations
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991 (ADA) mandates that reasonable accommodations must be made for individuals with disabilities. Any student who may need an accommodation for a disability should make an appointment with the Department Chair and the Disability Services office.