Description
Clinical Director – Alpha House, Inc.
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
FLSA Status: Exempt
Reports to: Executive Director/Board of Directors
General Definition of Work
The Clinical Director is responsible for the oversight, supervision, and direction of all clinical services provided by the facility in accordance with the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) regulations and ASAM criteria. This role ensures that all treatment services are evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, and delivered in a manner consistent with DDAP licensing requirements, payer expectations, and ethical standards of care.
The Clinical Director will oversee clinical staff, monitor quality assurance, ensure compliance with documentation and regulatory requirements, and provide direct clinical supervision. This role may also include carrying a small caseload consistent with DDAP standards for clinical directors.
Essential Functions
Clinical Oversight & Supervision
- Ensure all services comply with DDAP licensing regulations (28 Pa. Code Ch. 704/709), ASAM criteria, and applicable federal/state laws.
- Supervise and evaluate clinical staff, including counselors, therapists, case managers, and support staff, in accordance with DDAP staffing regulations.
- Conduct regular case reviews, clinical team meetings, and chart audits to ensure accurate documentation, appropriate treatment planning, and ASAM-consistent level of care determinations.
- Oversee development and implementation of individualized treatment and recovery plans, ensuring integration of medical, mental health, and social supports.
- Provide direct clinical supervision as required by DDAP, including ensuring staff receive required hours of supervision based on their licensing/credentialing status.
Compliance & Quality Assurance
- Maintain responsibility for ensuring compliance with DDAP licensing standards, Medicaid/insurance requirements, HIPAA, and mandated reporting obligations.
- Collaborate with the Quality Assurance department to track client outcomes, conduct performance improvement initiatives, and monitor adherence to ASAM principles.
- Review and approve all treatment policies and procedures to ensure alignment with DDAP regulations and ASAM standards of care.
- Ensure timely reporting of critical incidents, unusual occurrences, and regulatory notifications.
Clinical Leadership & Program Development
- Lead clinical program development, ensuring alignment with ASAM dimensions and levels of care offered by the facility.
- Identify opportunities to expand services in response to community needs, regulatory changes, and payer requirements.
- Provide training to staff on ASAM criteria, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based SUD treatment modalities.
- Act as the point of contact for complex clinical issues, crises, and escalations.
Direct Service Responsibilities (as applicable)
- Maintain a small clinical caseload in accordance with DDAP standards.
- Conduct comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments, utilizing ASAM criteria for placement and continued stay reviews.
- Facilitate individual, group, or family counseling sessions as appropriate.
- Document all services in the electronic health record (EHR) in compliance with DDAP documentation requirements.
Requirements
Required Competencies
- Strong knowledge of DDAP regulations and ASAM criteria.
- Demonstrated leadership skills in supervising multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong clinical decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in EHR systems and documentation standards.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, recovery-oriented, and culturally responsive care.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Master’s degree or above in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related human services field.
- Minimum of two years of supervisory experience in a drug and alcohol treatment program. (Five years preferred)
- Must hold a current Pennsylvania independent clinical license (LCSW, LPC, LMFT, or licensed psychologist).
- Knowledge of and experience with ASAM placement criteria and evidence-based treatment practices.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to work in an office and clinical setting.
- Must be able to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
- Must be able to respond to crisis situations both on-site and remotely.
- Full-time position, Monday–Friday, with flexibility for evening/weekend coverage if required.
Acknowledgement
This job description is not all-inclusive. Additional duties may be assigned as required by DDAP regulations, facility needs, or Alpha House, Inc. policies. The employee acknowledges understanding of these responsibilities and agrees to perform them in compliance with DDAP regulations and ASAM standards.
Please send your resume/ curriculum vitae to:
Roxanne R. Plater, President
Board of Directors
