Nicole Johnstone
***** ******** ****. ****** *******, Ca. 91607
***************@*****.***
Career Objective
I am a dedicated, registered substance use disorder counselor with over 10 years of experience in addiction recovery and clinical management, seeking a long-term position. I bring expertise in trauma-informed care, client care treatment services, staff supervision, and management, committed to improving client outcomes. I am currently pursuing an AA in behavioral science, and am eager to contribute my clinical skills, leadership experience, and passion for recovery in a treatment facility setting, dedicated to client care.
Education
Associate of Arts (AA) in Behavioral Science and Addiction Studies
Pierce College – 12/2024
15 units remaining to graduate
Relevant coursework: Substance Abuse Treatment, Behavioral Health, Addiction Counseling, Crisis Management, Co-occurring disorders, TIC
Certifications
CADTP- Substance Use Disorder Registered Counselor
CPR and First Aid Certified
Suicide Risk Assessment Certification (C-SSRS)
Trauma-Informed Care Certification
Professional Experience
Case Manager/12 clients
California Wellness Retreat Inc-10/2024- present
ASAM and CSSRs at intake
Complete intake from start to finish /including all documents, searches, breathalyzer, and UA
Assessments weekly for clients to update tx plans regularly
Master tx plans
Identify problem list from ASAM to go into tx plans
Diagnostic codes
Weekly Individual session with clients and documentation following
Running groups and documentation following
UA protocol and lab communication
Communication liaison with medical staff as well as operations department
Manage Operations department
Specified training in Co-Occurring Disorders, Opiate Overdose, and Trauma Informed Care
Supervised by LMFT, and learning for over 1 year, to further my knowledge
Treatment Services Manager/Case Manager
Encino Detox Center -10/2023- present
Case load of 8
Supervised over 8 employees
Proficient in JCHO and DHCS standards, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and high-quality client care.
Developed and implemented treatment plans, conducting individual counseling sessions and facilitating group therapy.
Led client intake and discharge process, including client assessments, property searches, and documentation using Kipu and Lightning Step systems.
Administered and documented medication observations, including S/A medication and urine analysis (UA).
Oversaw the scheduling and coordination of client groups, meetings, and 12-step outings, ensuring alignment with treatment goals.
Demonstrated strong leadership by training, supervising, and mentoring staff, ensuring adherence to procedures and fostering a positive work environment.
Collaborated effectively with clinical staff, families, and medical teams to provide comprehensive care for clients.
Shift Lead
EHG – 2/2021= 10/2023
Managed daily operations of the facility, ensuring smooth service delivery and quality care.
Trained new staff in operational procedures, documentation requirements, and clinical protocols.
Supervised staff and intervened in both clinical and operational matters, de-escalating conflicts and addressing client concerns.
Facilitated and documented group therapy sessions, ensuring client participation and progress in treatment.
Administered breathalyzer and urine tests, documenting results in compliance with company policies.
Supported clinical teams in medication pass procedures and documented all prescription medications.
Resident Technician
Cri- Help – 2012-2013
Facilitated client intake procedures, including property searches and documentation.
Scheduled and coordinated daily client activities and 12-step outings, ensuring engagement and participation.
Observed and reported any changes in client behavior, collaborating with counselors and medical staff to ensure safe, effective care.
Conducted random urine drug screens, breathalyzer tests, and other drug testing procedures as part of routine client monitoring.
Assisted clients with medication management, ensuring accurate documentation and reporting of medications taken or refused.
Key Skills
Addiction Counseling & Case Management: Skilled in individual and group counseling, treatment planning, and case management for clients with substance use disorders.
Clinical Supervision & Leadership: Proven experience managing and supervising clinical staff and teams, with a focus on training, conflict resolution, and performance management.
Crisis Intervention & De-escalation: Expertise in managing crises, de-escalating dysregulated clients, and intervening in high-stress situations to ensure client and staff safety.
Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of JCHO and DHCS standards, and a strong focus on compliance with industry regulations.
Medication Management: Experienced in observing and documenting client medication administration, including the use of S/A medications and handling medication documentation.
Treatment Documentation: Proficient in using Kipu, Lightning Step, and other EMR systems for documenting client progress, treatment plans, and other key clinical activities.
Assessments
Attention to detail — Proficient
June 2024
Identifying differences in materials, following instructions, and detecting details among distracting information
Full results: Proficient
Work style: Reliability — Proficient
November 2023
Tendency to be reliable, dependable, and act with integrity at work
Full results: Proficient
Case management & social work — Proficient
July 2024
Determining client needs, providing support resources, and collaborating with clients and multidisciplinary teams
Full results: Proficient
Supervisory skills: Motivating & assessing employees — Proficient
June 2024
Motivating others to achieve objectives and identifying improvements or corrective actions Full results: Proficient
Project timeline management — Proficient
March 2024
Prioritizing and allocating time to effectively achieve project deliverables Full results: Proficient
Medical terminology — Proficient
July 2024
Understanding and using medical terminology Full results: Proficient