Withdrawal Management Counsellor

Join to apply for the Withdrawal Management Counsellor role at Michael Garron Hospital. Overview The Withdrawal Management Service (WMS) is a community‑based facility dedicated to supporting people who use substances and experience withdrawal. WMS has a male‑identified unit with a capacity of 30 beds and a female‑identified unit with a capacity of 16 beds. The setting is trauma‑informed and gender‑transformative, catering to clients who often face mental health and/or medical challenges. As part of the Toronto East Health Partners network, WMS plays a vital role in the continuum of care for community members with substance use and mental health concerns. The ideal candidate is committed to providing high‑quality, evidence‑based care in a fast‑paced and evolving clinical environment. A Withdrawal Management Counsellor works as part of an inter‑professional team that includes Social Workers, Counsellors, Registered Nurses, Registered Practical Nurses, and Nurse Practitioners to support the overall safety, health, and wellbeing of WMS clients. This position requires 24 hours of work per week, with shifts across days, evenings, weekends, and overnights. Education Accredited College diploma in either Human Resources Counsellor or Social Services Worker required. International Certified Alcoholism and Drug Counsellor (ICADC) certificate is an asset. Baccalaureate Degree in a related field (Social Services or Psychology) preferred. Certification in addiction counselling an asset. First Aid/CPR certification required. Completion of specialized training/course in supporting individuals who are substance‑using/dependent. Additional training in harm reduction, recovery, mental health, and therapeutic modalities such as motivational interviewing or crisis prevention/management is a strong asset. Qualifications Minimum of one year of recent relevant experience with adults living with substance use/dependency, mental health challenges, and concurrent disorders in a community or hospital setting. Proven ability to conduct person‑centred biopsychosocial assessments and develop care plans for individuals facing substance use/dependency and/or mental health challenges. Strong self‑directed work ethic with leadership, critical thinking, organization, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to evaluate and respond to emerging client safety concerns. Experience preventing and responding to crises. Commitment to collaborative person‑ and family‑centred care. Training and experience in anti‑oppressive, gender‑transformative approaches to care. Competence in working with diverse communities using a health equity lens. Knowledge of conflict resolution and de‑escalation techniques. Experience with adults who have histories of trauma, abuse, self‑harm, and/or suicidal behaviour. Knowledge of adult mental health and substance use/addiction resources. Ability to collaborate effectively within an inter‑professional team. Commitment to ongoing quality improvement and care excellence. Strong oral and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills. Professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude. Computer proficiency and familiarity with common software applications. Excellent work and attendance record required. Knowledge of legislation guiding mental health and addiction practice, including the Mental Health Act and Health Care Consent Act. All employees of Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) agree to operate within the Occupational Health and Safety Act of Ontario and uphold MGH’s safety policies and procedures. All employees contribute to a transparent culture of patient and staff safety. All employees are accountable for protecting psychological health and safety of themselves and co‑workers. Seniority Level Entry level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Other Industries Hospitals and Health Care #J-18808-Ljbffr