Primary Therapist - Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health 

Location: Coastal Oaks Recovery, Port Royal, South Carolina 

About Coastal Oaks Recovery 

Located in the heart of the Lowcountry in South Carolina, Coastal Oaks Recovery is a 72-bed substance use disorder treatment center serving adults aged 18 and older. Nestled on five serene acres near the coastal waters and wetlands of Port Royal, Coastal Oaks provides a tranquil environment for individuals to stabilize and embark on their recovery journey. 

We offer medically monitored detoxification under the care of experienced professionals and residential treatment services lasting 30 to 45 days. Our evidence-based programs include group therapy, individual counseling, family programming, and holistic, patient-centered care tailored to meet individual needs. 

Position Purpose 

The Therapist provides clinical care to patients in both individual and group settings. This role is integral to Coastal Oaks Recovery’s multidisciplinary team, helping patients address substance use and co-occurring mental health challenges through evidence-based therapies. The Therapist collaborates with patients, families, and staff to create individualized treatment plans and support long-term recovery. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Patient Assessment and Care 

• Conduct comprehensive assessments, including biopsychosocial evaluations.
• Provide individual, group, and family therapy aligned with evidence-based practices.
• Facilitate individual, group and family therapy sessions as assigned by the Director of Clinical Services specific to outlined program curriculum. 
• Co-facilitate groups and support clinical staff in all aspects of clinical services.
• Address co-occurring disorders using integrated treatment approaches.
• Create a therapeutic environment that fosters trust, growth, and healing.
• Assess client’s needs for trauma informed care and treatment.
• Understand experiential therapies and alternative therapeutic modalities. 
• Assign work to patient caseload appropriate to level of care and individualized needs.  

Collaboration and Leadership 

• Actively participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning and team meetings.
• Support the development of individualized treatment plans tailored to patient needs.
• Serve as a resource for staff and families, providing guidance on therapeutic approaches and recovery planning. 
• Attend and participate in all departmental meetings as requested by supervisor.
• Provide support to case management and utilization review when needed 

Education and Advocacy 

• Educate patients and families about the recovery process and available support resources. 
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations specific to Section 42 CFR, including confidentiality under 42 CFR. 
• Advocate for patients’ needs and connect them with community resources and aftercare support. 

Compliance and Documentation 

• Develop and update individualized treatment plans that meet the requirements set forth in the care and treatment services policies and procedures set forth by Coastal Oaks Recovery.
• Assist case management in discharge planning and outside referrals when necessary for patient caseload 
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all therapy sessions and assessments in the EMR system.
• Ensure compliance with Coastal Oaks policies and procedures, The Joint Commission standards, and all state and federal regulations including those of insurance companies and payor sources. 
• Participate in quality assurance and performance improvement initiatives as required. 
• Have a comprehensive understanding of ASAM Levels of care and the ability to always assess acuity of patients supporting level of care criteria for detoxification and residential treatment.
• Maintain documentation appropriate to each patient’s identified level of care, signs and symptoms.
• Articulate patient needs through chart documentation and verbally as requested  

Skills and Abilities 

• Strong therapeutic communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in EMR systems and documentation practices.
• Ability to manage crises and de-escalate tense situations effectively.
• Experience with motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or similar modalities. 

Qualifications 

Education 

Licensure/Certification 

• Current licensure in South Carolina as LPC, LMFT, LCSW, or equivalent.
• Certifications in addiction counseling or trauma-informed care are preferred. 

Experience 

• Minimum of two years of experience in substance use disorder treatment, mental health counseling, or a related field.
• Knowledge of addiction treatment practices and co-occurring disorder management is required. 

Physical and Work Environment Requirements 

• Frequent standing, walking, sitting, and interacting with patients and staff.
• Occasional lifting of up to 15 pounds. 
• Ability to manage emotional stress and maintain professionalism in challenging situations.
• Work primarily indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. 

Why Join Coastal Oaks Recovery? 

At Coastal Oaks Recovery, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals on their path to recovery. As a Charge Nurse, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team of professionals and make a meaningful impact on patient outcomes. 

We Offer: 

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth. 
• A supportive and collaborative workplace culture. 

If you are a skilled and motivated nurse leader ready to contribute to a mission-driven organization, apply today to join Coastal Oaks Recovery as a Primary Therapist!