Mental Health

**Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor**

The Mental Health & Addictions (MH&A) counsellor will provide assessment, treatment, and referral services to people affected by addiction; including (but not limited to) substance abuse disorders, internet addiction, gambling, etc. The MH&A counsellor will deliver services on an individual, family, couples, group, and community basis. The counsellor also delivers culturally safe and appropriate services, including (but not limited to) individual consultations, assessments, group facilitation, and public information sessions in the community.

**Key Duties & Responsibilities**
- Implement program objectives and procedures in compliance Northern Health Authority requirements.
- Provide programs and services aimed at reducing and/or avoiding substance use and substance misuse.
- Provide a range of outpatient-based services for the community that includes education, prevention, and therapeutic activities in a variety of settings (individual, group, family, etc.).
- Assess client needs, develop and implement treatment plans, and carry out regular reviews and updates to treatment plans relevant to individuals experiencing difficulties associated with substance use and substance misuse.
- Document and maintain client records in a secure and confidential file.
- Receive referrals from Nawican Case Manager and community agencies in relation to individuals experiencing difficulties associated with substance use and substance misuse.
- Make appropriate referrals to treatment centres and other associated service providers as needed.
- Provide skills and knowledge necessary for clients to act as agents of change in their own life to include increasing self-efficacy and resilience.
- Develop and promote educational programming and workshops that facilitate community awareness on substance use & misuse, prevention, and harm reduction.
- Promote health and wellness within the Nawican Friendship Centre and the community.

**Counselling Services**
- Provide scheduled appointments for clients and regular open access drop-in sessions for the community
- Provide follow up, aftercare, and continuing care for all clients
- Encourage clients to participate in ongoing community programs and constructive activities
- Tailor counselling techniques to suit individual clients including referral to another counsellor if needed.

**Professional Responsibilities**
- Abide by the professional code of conduct in relation to counselling and counselling activities.
- Adhere to the ethical and confidentiality standards established by the Nawican Friendship Centre
- Ensure strict confidentiality of all information pertaining to clients and their families.

**General Job Responsibilities and Expectations**
- Keep current on substance disorders and addiction issues by (including but not limited to) reading relevant articles, attending staff development sessions, training workshops, conferences, etc.
- Attend meetings as required (including staff meetings), for the purpose of sharing information on theMH&A program.
- Provide monthly reports to the Board of Directors and funding agencies.
- Participate in fundraising activities (as requested) for the Nawican Friendship Centre ensuring there is adequate funds for events and promotion of activities.
- Assist with maintaining Nawican buildings by attending to communal coffee/tea area, engaging with individuals when possible, and building positive working relationships.
- Establish and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues and external agencies.

**Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor Requirements**

**Incumbent must**:

- Hold a bachelor’s degree in the field of Social Work, Psychology, or Counselling and/or 5 years of experience with a focus on addictions
- Be willing to work flexible hours
- Be organized and self-directed
- Provide a criminal record and vulnerable persons’ criminal records check
- Have knowledge of Indigenous culture
- Have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in written form
- Have computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Office
- Hold a valid class 5 Driver’s License
- Possess strong administrative skills

Pursuant to section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry.

Position will be full-time, 37.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.. Wage will be determined depending on experience and education.

**Salary**: From $27.00 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday

**Education**:

- Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

Work Location: One location