Mental Health Counselor

Company: National Center for Urban Solutions
Location: Columbus
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Description: Mental Health Counselor at APDS will be responsible for delivering high-quality clinical services, including assessment, facilitation, and intervention strategies, to individuals. This role focuses on supporting clients in achieving personal growth, reducing recidivism, and promoting recovery through evidence-based practices. The clinician will work collaboratively with case managers, Franklin County court systems, National Center for Urban Solutions, Franklin County Children Services, and other service providers to ensure comprehensive care and positive client outcomes. Key Responsibilities: Conduct Assessments: Perform comprehensive assessments to evaluate the mental health treatment needs, substance use disorder treatment needs, and readiness for change of individuals in the program. Develop Treatment Plans: Create individualized treatment and prevention plans that outline goals, strategies, and interventions tailored to each client’s unique needs. Provide Counseling: Facilitate individual and group counseling sessions to support clients in addressing mental health disorders, substance use disorders, anxiety/anger challenges, and domestic violence behavioral issues. Implement Evidence-Based Practices: Utilize evidence-based treatment modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and trauma-informed care, to support client rehabilitation and recovery. Utilize the American Society of Addition Medicine Criteria for substance3 use disorders. Collaborate with Stakeholders: Coordinate with National Center for Urban Solutions, Franklin County Courts, Franklin County Children Services, correctional facilities, and external partners to ensure continuity of care and appropriate service delivery. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate and timely electronic health records of client interactions, treatment plans, progress notes, and other required documentation. Program Development: Assist in the development and enhancement of treatment and prevention programs, ensuring they are aligned with the latest research and best practices. Client Advocacy: Advocate for client needs and facilitate access to resources that support their reintegration and well-being. Other Responsibilities: Maintain up-to-date files in compliance with APDS standards for each customer enrolled in group/class Complete all required paperwork within designated timeframes and at the APDS standard of excellence Provide professional, on-going, timely correspondence regarding customer progress with authorized contacts for each customer enrolled in group/class Participate in weekly Quality Assurance and/or Peer Review sessions Participate in regular supervision sessions as scheduled Participating in All Staff Meetings and other meetings as assigned Maintain agreed upon required level of daily productivity Participate in data collection and reporting processes and activities as required Contribute to on-going program and curriculum enhancement and development Develop strategies and practice techniques which maintain and improve the retention of customers at APDS Be aware of and abide by all APDS and NCUS policies & procedures Serve as a substitute facilitator for other APDS programs as qualified and at request of supervisor Participate in a minimum of sixteen (16) hours of training (internal or external) related to job responsibilities each year of employment at APDS Participate in and volunteer to assist with other APDS and NCUS activities and events regularly Other duties/responsibilities as assigned Requirements: Education and Experience Master’s degree in social work, or a related field or a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in clinical practices, case management, or a related role. Experience working in behavioral healthcare settings or treatment programs. Current Certification/Licensure/Education which qualifies individual to perform both treatment and prevention counseling services such as LPC, LSW, LCSW etc. Familiarity with trauma-informed care and cognitive-behavioral interventions. Familiarity with the American Society of Addition Medicine Criteria (ASAM) Two (2) years of experience in group or individual counseling and/or facilitation Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including ability to communicate with people of diverse backgrounds APDS is a drug free workplace and employment at APDS is contingent upon the results of applicant’s drug test Employment at APDS is contingent upon background check report(s) regarding applicants Skills and Competencies Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems and clinical documentation. Efficient use of computer word processing programs, email, and internet Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a team. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software applications. Demonstrates maturity and professionalism within interpersonal relationships Effective independent time management and prioritization skills Experience working at or collaborating with family centered organizations Experience working within the criminal justice system or with justice-involved individuals. ANY PERSON WHO KNOWINGLY MAKES A FALSE STATEMENT IS GUILTY OF FALSIFICATION UNDER SECTION 2921.13 OF THE REVISED CODE, WHICH IS A MISDEMEANOR OF THE FIRST DEGREE. ORC 3319.393(A)

Keywords: National Center for Urban Solutions, Middletown , Mental Health Counselor, Healthcare , Columbus, Ohio