School Counsellor

Bella Bella Community School is seeking a skilled School Counsellor to join our team. As a vital member of our special services team, you will provide services directed at helping grades K4-12 students experiencing behavioural, emotional, and social difficulties.

• Provide individual and group counselling to students
• Organize informational sessions on topics such as bullying, drug and behavioural disorders, alcohol awareness, and lifestyle choices
• Provide support around youth relationships, self-esteem, trauma, grief, and other issues
• Maintain ongoing support to community agencies and families in their care for youth
• Facilitate peer counselling and maintain records and notes as required
• Participate in the IEP process, including setting goals and collecting data
• Teach social skills programs to youth with varying abilities
• Complete suicide risk assessments and youth safety plans
• Provide referrals to other community and/or regional service providers
• Collaborate with the graduation coordinator to inform and support students transitioning to post-secondary
• Maintain clinical supervision and perform additional duties as assigned

• Demonstrated capabilities in providing effective youth, family, and group counselling services
• Knowledge of the BC Ministry of Education's current philosophy, teaching practices, and evaluation/assessment/reporting procedures
• Commitment to working collaboratively in a team setting with youth, staff, administration, parents, and community partners
• Active listening and communication skills
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to work independently with initiative
• Strong interest and capacities in extra-curricular activities
• Social-emotional competencies of self-awareness, empathy, flexibility, relationship-building, and responsible decision-making

• Completion of a master's degree, recognized by the BC Teachers Regulatory Branch, in counselling psychology or a related discipline with a focus on behaviour disorders and counselling
• BCTRB Membership is an asset
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check
• Experience working in an Indigenous setting is preferred
• Understanding and appreciation of Indigenous culture and history

Bella Bella is a progressive Indigenous community located in a unique coastal environment. Located on Campbell Island on the Inside Passage of British Columbia's Central Coast, with access by Air or BC Ferry from Port Hardy or Prince Rupert. Recreational opportunities include sea kayaking, fishing, hiking, camping, and other outdoor wilderness pursuits. The Heiltsuk people of this territory have value and respect for their community, their culture, their long-standing history, and ongoing community development and practices. The Heiltsuk Nation carries out its rich traditions and culture through potlatches, ceremonies, and feasts; all staff are welcome to attend these community activities. There are 300 students enrolled at Bella Bella Community School (BBCS) from K4 to Grade 12. BBCS is a certified and accredited school with the British Columbia Ministry of Education and FNESC, and we are one of the largest Indigenous schools in BC.