Addictions Counsellor

Join us at **Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC)** and become a catalyst for change in the lives of individuals navigating the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges. This is more than a job—it's a chance to make a real difference in your community and to grow with a team that values your expertise and passion.

**About Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC)**:
PAARC is a notable not-for-profit charitable organization funded by the Ministry of Health, through Ontario Health Central Region. With full accreditation from the Canadian Centre for Accreditation, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive services to those dealing with alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming, and various behavioral dependencies, alongside supporting mental health challenges. Our commitment to a diverse, inclusive workplace and a person-centered approach underlines our services and team ethos.

**About the role**

As an **Addictions Counsellor / Case Manager**you will be integral to the development, implementation, operation, and evaluation of PAARC's programs (program TBD). This role requires dedicated individuals who can work in the office and within the community as part of a multidisciplinary team, committed to PAARC's mission and values.

Benefits included: Mileage reimbursement, RRSP matching, group health/dental plan, LTD/life insurance, EAP, 4 weeks of vacation to start, remote work one day per week, professional development opportunities

**Intent of the Process**

**What you'll do**
- Conduct intake, screening, assessment, and treatment planning, using appropriate tools and methods to ensure the eligibility and ongoing needs of applicants.
- Provide ongoing supportive counselling and case management, including assessment, referral, aftercare, and discharge, while effectively managing a defined caseload.
- Respond to crisis situations with appropriate interventions and support clients in developing and understanding healthy boundaries.
- Participate actively in case conferences and consultations with treatment providers and other community organizations, fostering collaborative care.
- Initiate and maintain client files and documentation in accordance with best practices and legal guidelines, ensuring data accuracy and timeliness

**Skills & Competencies**
- Clinical skills in addiction and substance abuse, concurrent disorders and/or withdrawal management, with the ability to perform brief psychosocial and risk assessments.
- Knowledge of evidence-based treatment methodologies for addiction, including cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing.
- Experience in delivering counselling services through individual sessions, group therapy, group facilitation and/or educational workshops.
- Knowledge and/or experience working with clients in various personal circumstances or settings - including but not limited to transitional housing/homelessness, adults, seniors, youth, mandated client programs and those within the criminal justice system.
- Proficiency in non-violent crisis intervention techniques and CPR/First Aid.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work empathetically with people from all socio-economic backgrounds, including marginalized/stigmatized populations
- Critical thinking skills and the capacity to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Demonstrated knowledge and a philosophy of substance abuse aligned with PAARC's philosophy.

**Requirements**:

- Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field from an accredited institution or relevant education with commensurate experience.
- Experience: Specified minimum 2 years of relevant experience required.
- Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid required; GAIN Q3 MI ONT Certification preferred.
- Counselling Skills: Strong evidence-based, trauma-informed counselling skills essential.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in prevalent languages in the Region of Peel and French considered a strong asset.
- Transportation: Valid Ontario Driver’s License, insurance, and reliable vehicle required.

**Working Conditions**
- Office environment and community-based settings.
- Required travel to clients homes and community facilities.