Crisis Counsellor

Overview:
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Crisis Counselor to join our team. As a Crisis Counselor, you will provide support and assistance to individuals experiencing crisis situations. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

**Job Summary**:The Crisis Counsellor’s primary responsibility involves crisis assessment and immediate support provision to newcomer families and refugees. Responsibilities include crisis intervention, stabilization, timely assessment, and referral facilitation to internal or external resources. Additionally, the Crisis Counsellor offers consultation, assessment, and recommendations to Settlement Counsellors regarding emergent mental health concerns. You will play a crucial role in helping newcomers navigate the challenges of resettlement, address psychological distress, and rebuild their lives in their new environment.

**Duties and Responsibilities**:

- Provide confidential counseling services to individuals and families who have recently arrived from war-torn regions, addressing a range of mental health concerns such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders.
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify clients' needs, strengths, and resources, and develop personalized treatment plans in collaboration with them.
- Offer crisis intervention and emotional support to clients experiencing acute distress or facing immediate challenges related to their resettlement process.
- Utilize culturally sensitive and trauma-informed approaches to counseling, recognizing and respecting the unique cultural backgrounds and experiences of clients.
- Collaborate with other service providers, including social workers, case managers, and community organizations, to coordinate care and ensure holistic support for clients.
- Offer one-on-one crisis support assistance via various communication channels including telephone and SMS texting.
- Liaise with community support partners, such as mental health service providers, for client recovery, reintegration into society, crisis intervention/prevention, advocacy, and referrals.
- Develop and implement crisis management strategies in collaboration with clients.
- Facilitate psychoeducational workshops and support groups on topics such as stress management, coping skills, and cultural adjustment to enhance clients' resilience and well-being.
- Advocate for clients' rights and access to appropriate services within the community, including healthcare, housing, education, and employment opportunities.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of client sessions, progress notes, and treatment plans in accordance with professional standards and organizational policies.
- Stay informed about current research, best practices, and resources in the field of trauma-informed care and refugee mental health to enhance the quality of services provided.
- Participate in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development activities to enhance your clinical skills and cultural competence.
- Maintain detailed and accurate case notes on client interactions and progress.
- Prepare reports and summaries as required for internal record-keeping and reporting purposes.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

**Education, Training, and Experience**:

- Minimum of two (2) years of experience in crisis counselling OR one (1) year of crisis counselling experience AND an undergraduate degree in Social Work, Psychology, or a related discipline.
- Strong crisis intervention skills and the ability to remain calm and composed in high-pressure situations.
- Fluency in languages commonly spoken by refugees from war-torn countries is highly desirable.
- Experience working with newcomers, immigrants, or diverse cultural groups.
- Knowledge of settlement services, community resources, and cultural competency.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for supporting newcomers in their integration journey.
- Must possess a valid Ontario Driver’s License.
- Required to provide a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Pay: $55,000.00-$61,000.00 per year

**Benefits**:

- Dental care
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

**Education**:

- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

Work Location: In person