Community Counsellor

Community Counsellor

**Reports To**

Operations Manager-Health Center

**Role Purpose**

The Community Counsellor is responsible for the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of culturally appropriate prevention programming and activities that support the safety and wellbeing of First Nation children and their families. They provide counseling services aimed at family preservation; ultimately helping families at risk stay together in their community.

As a part of a multi-disciplinary team, the Community Counsellor will be on the front lines working with members of various ages, at differing stages of therapy, and facing varied risks. This role contributes to the betterment and well-being of SFN members through these programs.

**Saulteau First Nations Mission**

We strive to be the Best Governed Nation, one that is proud, culturally strong, and self-sufficient. As stewards of the land, we will ensure that the best sustainable practices are followed, now and in the future. We remain proudly determined.

**Duties and Responsibilities**

**Program and Services**:

- Identify and council members on a broad spectrum of areas, providing support to at-risk members on an ongoing basis based on established standards.
- Identifies and organizes treatment options. Advocates for clients on treatment plans and access to proper resources and completes appropriate paperwork.
- Provides one on one counseling support, or alternatively group counseling sessions for those struggling with, or seeking guidance on topics such as:

- conflict resolution, fair fighting, and anger management
- welcoming new children into the family, blended families, or positive co-parenting solutions
- communication strategies and listening
- parent-adolescent relationships, including positive family time and strategies
- Ensures consistent quality, accountability, and high standards in all client support and education, including working with other health team members to develop models, procedures, and comprehensive frameworks of delivery.
- Maintains accurate and complete statistical records, both qualitative and quantitative for all clients, providing funders particularly First Nations Health Authority, with comprehensive details on programs offered.
- Maintains accurate and confidential case management files.
- Provides monthly reports to the Director of Health on departmental progress in the above areas.
- Evaluates all programs and services to assess their impact and success and make needed changes and improvements as indicated.
- Liaises with hospitals, community agencies, health professionals, mental health workers, drug and alcohol counselors, child, and family services.
- Budget’s time and resources as well as organize programs that benefit the community.
- Monitors and manages expenditures and budgets for the various programs administered and provides monthly reporting and status updates to the Operations Manager at the SFN Health Centre.

**Other Related Duties**:

- Participates actively as an SFN representative in collaborative partner networks and in related community activities.
- Participates in SFN-sponsored community events.
- Able and willing to do outreach as required.
- Provide coverage support for the other SFN Counsellors as needed.

**Qualifications and Skills**
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or Nursing, with a certificate in counseling, or Registered Clinical Counsellor, Psychologist, or an equivalent combination of education & experience.
- Training and 2-3 years of experience in mental health, childhood trauma, or addictions.
- Knowledge and experience in culturally appropriate programs and community-based service delivery.
- Experience and knowledge of health promotion, and community counseling.
- Able to respond to multi demands, conflict resolutions, and problem-solving on a continuous basis in a professional manner, showing understanding, friendliness, courtesy, tact, empathy, and respect to others.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, plus strong negotiation skills.
- Ability to solve problems, make effective decisions, resolve conflicts, and manage time effectively.
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team environment.
- The ability to keep documents confidential.
- Valid BC Driver’s License.
- Vulnerable Sector Police Information Check.

**Work Conditions**
- Some evening and weekend work may be necessary.
- Work is performed primarily in the office with hours of work set as 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursdays.
- Travel may be required within the SFN community and surrounding community.
- Manual dexterity is required to use desktop computers and peripherals

**Compensation**

Salary range may vary dependent on qualifications and experience.

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

**Salary**: $32.00-$43.70 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- On-site gym
- Paid