Youth & Family Counsellor - Conflict Resolution

This position includes a comprehensive 100% employer-paid benefit package, enrolment in our defined benefit pension plan (Municipal Pension Plan), and three weeks of paid vacation.

Please note this is a temporary position, covering a leave of absence that is estimated to last for up to June 26, 2026.

Applicants must be authorized to work in Canada and at our organization on an ongoing basis.

The John Howard Society of North Island is an employment equity employer.

This position is open to applicants of all genders.

This position requires union membership and the completion of two criminal record checks.
- Job Title:_ Youth and Family Counsellor -Conflict Resolution
- Work site:_ Campbell River
- Program:_ Youth and Family Conflict Resolution
- Benchmark: _Family Counsellor
- Grid Level:_**Grid**14, Paraprofessional
- Reports To: _Program Manager, Campbell River

**Summary**:
The Youth and Family Counsellor - Conflict Resolution assists youth and their parents/guardians to resolve conflicts and build healthy family relationships. The program employs short term mediation, individual/family counselling, and psycho-education to promote and develop healthy relationships and problem solving in the family. A primary focus is preventing family breakdowns and reuniting families when the youth is out of the home.

**Key Duties and Responsibilities**:
To be successful in the position the Youth and Family Counsellor - Conflict Resolution must be able to consistently perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Other duties may be assigned.

Works with youth, their parent/guardian, and others when appropriate, to assess suitability for the service, assess needs and resources, and develop a plan/strategy for addressing interpersonal conflicts, family issues and related concerns.

Engages youth and families in conflict resolution and problem solving.

Engages youth and families in skill building and education on topics that may include social and life skills, self-control, self-awareness, self-care, parenting skills, transition to independence, developmental norms, health, and substance use.

Provides information/education, skill building, counselling, and support for parents in the area of parenting approaches and skills.

Takes responsibility for case management activities including: documentation and information management, liaison with the referral source and other agencies, involving family members and others when appropriate, in case planning and attending integrated case meetings.

Refers youth and families to other community services and resources as necessary. Ensures a connection is made to the new service. Follows up on and supports referrals when necessary.

Collects data for reporting on program outcomes and statistics.

Provides crisis intervention and support for youth and their families when required.

Plans, co-ordinates, leads/co-leads, and evaluates groups for youth and/or caregivers.

Represents the agency in the community when required. Maintains healthy relationships with other organizations and the community at large.

Offers support to and consults with co-workers as part of a team providing integrated, holistic services to youth and families.

Completes reports and attends meetings as required by The John Howard Society of North Island and the Ministry for Children and Families.

Advocates for families served within the larger community.

**Qualifications**:
The requirements listed below detail the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required to perform the essential duties of the position.

**Education and Experience**:
A bachelor’s degree in social work or another human services field from an accredited institution.

Some driving is required to attend meetings, pick up youth, or meet with clients in the community. The Youth and Family Counsellor - Conflict Resolution must have a valid driver's licence and access to safe, reliable transportation, and must obtain appropriate insurance as per Society policy.

Two years’ post-degree experience in family and children’s services.

Training and experience should include:
Experience working with youth and families in a conflict resolution, counselling, or other helping capacity.

Demonstrated ability to use individual and family counselling techniques and approaches.

Knowledge of, and experience with, mediation and conflict resolution techniques and approaches.

Knowledge of, and experience with, parent education, coaching and support.

Experience planning and leading educations, support, or counselling groups.

Knowledge of, and experience in, maintaining confidentiality, appropriate boundaries, and other basic counselling ethics.

Knowledge of, and experience working with, hard to engage or resistant youth and families.

Knowledge of child development, and individual and family functioning.

Understanding of trauma and its impact on youth and families.

Demonstrated ability to work constructively and cooperatively in a team setting.

Excellent co