Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern - Now Hiring for the Spring 2026 Semester!

Make a Difference. Build Your Skills. Grow Your Career.

Schedule: Monday - Friday

Wage: $15.00 per hour

Are you passionate about helping people create meaningful change in their lives? As an Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on clinical experience while supporting individuals on their journey toward recovery and long-term wellness.

Working under the direction and guidance of the Clinical Director, you’ll become an integral part of a collaborative care team. You’ll work directly with clients through assessment, treatment planning, individual and group counseling, education, and continuing care planning—all while developing the skills and experience needed to grow as a professional counselor.

This is more than an internship. It’s an opportunity to make a real impact while building the foundation for your career in the substance use disorder field.

What You'll Do:

Support Clients Through Their Recovery Journey

• Conduct comprehensive assessments and complete required assessment surveys, including the GAIN-SS.
• Develop individualized service and treatment plans with clients, establishing specific, measurable goals and meaningful interventions.
• Regularly review and update treatment plans in accordance with Minnesota Rule 245G requirements.
• Facilitate individual and group chemical dependency counseling and education sessions.
• Document client participation, progress, and services accurately and consistently.
• Assess clients for potential vulnerabilities and develop or update Individual Abuse Prevention Plans when appropriate.

Build Connections and Coordinate Care

• Communicate regularly with the Clinical Director and Mental Health Professional regarding client treatment and progress.
• With appropriate consent, connect with referral sources within the first three days of admission and weekly thereafter to provide updates and support continuing care planning.
• Help clients create realistic, individualized continuing care plans that support their success beyond treatment.
• Coordinate referrals and services related to substance use, mental health, medical care, and other client needs.
• Support clients in strengthening their recovery network by providing resources and guidance to family members, friends, and other concerned persons.

Be Part of a Team That Cares

Recovery is a team effort. You’ll work alongside the broader Center team to provide a welcoming, supportive, and high-quality environment for every client. As part of that team, you may also assist with general housekeeping, kitchen duties, light maintenance, and other responsibilities that help keep the Center running smoothly.

Your Opportunity to Grow

As an Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your education in a real-world setting, develop your clinical skills, and gain valuable experience working with individuals and families affected by substance use.

You’ll be empowered to make recommendations related to client assessment and the development and revision of treatment plans, consistent with Minnesota Statute 245G and under the direction of the Clinical Director.

When situations fall outside established policies and procedures, you’ll have the support of the Counselor Supervisor to help guide you through the appropriate next steps.

Amazing Benefits Await You!

• 401(k) with company match - Eligibility begins after completing 12 months of employment and at least 1,000 hours of service during that period.
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Free Meals while on shift
• Scholarship Opportunities

Qualifications:

• Enrolled in an accredited program with an approved faculty supervisor.
• Working toward Licensure by the State of Minnesota as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
• Know and understand the implications of chapter 245G, chapter 245A, and sections 626.556, 626.557 and 626.5572.

Physical Requirements:

• Constantly operate a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, printer, etc.
• Frequently communicate with employees, managers, patients and other individuals with key relationships. This requires receiving and providing accurate information in these situations.
• Frequently move around the office to access file cabinets, office machinery and supplies, etc