Harm Reduction and Addictions Worker

**Who We Are**

The work of Good Shepherd is based on a fundamental belief in providing hope and restoring dignity to the most vulnerable members of our community. Our services include emergency food transitional housing and education for homeless and street-involved youth; hospice palliative care; community mental health programs; and supportive housing programs. We are committed to integrating Harm Reduction practices into our programs and to prioritizing the rights, dignity, and choices of those who use substances. By integrating a Harm Reduction framework at Good Shepherd, we can decrease barriers to service and better support some of our community's most marginalized members.

**Good Shepherd is seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our team as a Harm Reduction and Addictions Worker - Barrett Centre**

**How You Will Make an Impact**

This vital role extends our mission to both residential and non-residential clients, offering respectful and appropriate support services grounded in Harm Reduction principles. You will engage in a range of activities including case management, skill-building, referrals, and supportive counseling, tailored to meet the self-identified needs, goals, and readiness for change of our clients. With a focus on comprehensive assessment and individualized service planning, this role demands a professional who can work independently, navigate challenging situations, and thrive in a values-based environment that is both rewarding and demanding.

The responsibilities of this position are diverse and impactful. From providing crisis counseling and support to facilitating educational programs on mental health and addiction, you will play a crucial role in guiding clients towards healthier lifestyles, emphasizing relapse prevention, community engagement, and life skills development.

You will support clients in addressing immediate needs through direct programming, including harm reduction strategies, life skills programming, and daily living skills development.

**What You'll Bring to Our Team**
- This position requires a University Degree in Social Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy or related field, plus an Addictions Certificate from a recognized college, plus two years' work related experience, particular with persons who experience problematic substance use and mental health challenges
- Extensive knowledge of the social service system and community resources
- Expertise providing counselling and case management to individuals who are experiencing or have experienced a complex history of substance use and mental health concerns
- Crisis intervention and risk assessment skills, with well-developed problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated knowledge of the Criminal Justice system
- Demonstrated knowledge of crisis intervention de-escalation strategies and interventions and an ability to remain calm in crisis situations
- Demonstrated ability to recognize and respond to the emotional, psychological and physical needs of individuals reacting to a crisis situation
- Fluency in a 2nd language is an asset
- CPR certification or willingness to be certified is required
- Committed to anti-racist/anti-oppressive practice and to the mission and values of Good Shepherd
- Demonstrated understanding of workplace health and safety practices and understanding of an employee's responsibility under current legislation

**What We Offer**
- Be a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
- Support for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
- Staff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE / FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)
- POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING atmosphere
- Make a difference and provide HOPE
- Extended benefits
- Good Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve._
- Good Shepherd has a mandatory verification of COVID-19 vaccination policy. More information on the full policy requirements and accommodation allowances will be provided to those selected for an interview._