Crisis Worker

Position Summary Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital is an integral part of the Simcoe County Crisis Response Service, providing same or next day appointments to individuals 16 years of age and over who are experiencing a psychiatric or psychosocial crisis. The primary functions of the position include the assessment and short-term follow-up treatment of individuals in an acute psychiatric or psychosocial crisis. They will act as a proactive liaison with the hospital’s emergency department, Adult Inpatient Mental Health Unit, the Mental Health Crisis Line, family physicians, and community groups and organizations (e.g. police, shelters, churches, schools, and agencies), to facilitate appropriate use and promotion of the service. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Complete mental health and risk assessments on individuals 13 years of age and over, presenting to the Emergency Department for psychiatric and/or psychosocial crises. • In consultation with the Emergency Department physician and other staff as appropriate, determine disposition from the Emergency department. • Gather collateral information as needed from appropriate sources (police, EMS, family, friends, caregivers, and other community professionals). • Provide information regarding community resources and supports in the community, and complete internal and external referrals as appropriate. • Work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team with ER staff, psychiatrists, psych hospitalists and other mental health staff, to provide patient centered care. • Act as a liaison between the Emergency Department and Adult Mental Health Inpatient unit. • Provide brief follow up as appropriate. • Respond to volatile and difficult situations throughout the hospital as they arise, to assist with de-escalation and patient care. Performs other duties as may be assigned by the Program Manager. Qualifications Education: • University Degree in Social Work, BSc. Nursing, or degree in Occupational Therapy or equivalent is required. • Regulated Health Professional in good standing (Registered Nurse, Registered Social Worker or Registered Occupational Therapist) and adherence to standards of practice as per designated college is required. Experience: • Minimum four (4) years’ experience with crisis intervention in an acute care setting is required. • Experience working in acute mental health sector, preferably in the community is preferred • Demonstrated competency in crises assessment, risk assessment, and brief follow-up treatment. • Demonstrated knowledge of the classification of psychiatric illnesses, as outlined in the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders” of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-V). • Demonstrated knowledge of the main classification of psychotropic medications, including their general use, expected response, and common side effects. • Demonstrated understanding of the principles of self-defined crisis, and familiarity with the Mental Health Crisis Line, hospital emergency department, family physicians and community services, and provision for short-term follow-up after assessment where warranted. • Demonstrated understanding of issues and needs related to individuals in crisis (e.g. decompensation, potential loss of control, support and structure) • Demonstrated knowledge of local community resources for post-crisis care. • Satisfactory work performance and attendance record required • The successful candidate will have a proven commitment to professional development as well as to the Mission and Vision of the Hospital. Demonstrates proficiency in written and verbal communications skills in relation to working with patients across the care continuum. Competencies: • Demonstrated ability to work and problem solve independently. • Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills to function as a productive member of the multidisciplinary team. • Demonstrated ability to organize and prioritize multiple demands. • Demonstrated ability to perform accurate and timely documentation, meeting professional and organizational standards. • Demonstrates knowledge and experience in working with those with a serious and persistent mental health condition. Our Employees Enjoy • a professional practice environment • a collaborative atmosphere with emphasis on teamwork • wellness initiatives • continuing education grants • employee recognition and assistance programs • a competitive salary and benefits package • equal opportunities for growth and development Employment Equity OSMH is committed to diversity and equity in the workplace and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S persons and others who may contribute to a diverse workplace. Accommodation in the Workplace Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital is a respectful, caring, and inclusive workplace. We are committed to championing accessibility, diversity, equal opportunity and maintaining a barrier-free selection process for job applicants. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process providing the applicant has met the requirements for the open position. Applicants need to make their requirements known to the Human Resources department when contacted. All requests are handled confidentially. Health & Safety Responsibilities OSMH is committed to providing a safe, healthy and supportive working environment by treating team members and patients with compassion accountability respect and engagement. All team members must adhere to OSMH’s Occupational Health and Safety policies, procedures and protocols, as well as the duties of workers as stipulated in the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Team members must be able to perform all bona fide and essential duties of the position which may include cognitive and physical demands. As a condition of employment, new employees are required to complete an employment health assessment and must be cleared by the Occupational Health and Safety Team prior to orientation. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use in Hiring at OSMH OSMH may utilize automated screening tools (i.e. questionnaires) to highlight candidates' qualifications; however, OSMH does not involve the use of artifical intelligence (AI) to screen, assess, or select applicants. We recommend applying directly through our website as all applications are reviewed by our recruitment team.  Closing Statement