Indigenous Counsellor

Employment Status: Temporary Full-time

Department: Indigenous Health

Union: Health Care Professionals

End Date: Jan 1, 2027

Job Code: 21527

✓ Pension ✓ Dental Insurance ✓ Disability Insurance ✓ Health Insurance ✓ Life Insurance

✓ Weekends ✓ Days ✓ Nights ✓ Evenings

JOIN OUR TEAM AND HELP LEAD WITH CARE, COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Clinical Manager – Indigenous Health, N'doo'owe' Binesi, the Indigenous Counsellor works within the Indigenous Health Team to carry out the delivery of culturally competent and safe client-centered care. The Indigenous Counsellor will practice from an Indigenous worldview that recognizes the values, beliefs, and customs while working from a wholistic lens. It is the role of the Indigenous Counsellor to ensure clients are receiving therapeutic counselling grounding in an Indigenous trauma-informed framework. The Indigenous Counsellor will provide counselling and mental wellness support to St. Joseph Care Group clients and, as part of their role, will also deliver culturally responsive counselling services within Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board St. Jude's school setting up to two days per week.

HIRING DEADLINE: January 23, 2026

Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. However, consideration of submissions after the deadline will be at the organization's discretion. Applicants are encouraged to apply by the Hiring Deadline.

This posting is for a newly created position within the organization.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

At St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG), our diverse workforce strengthens our ability to provide culturally competent care and innovative solutions to the complex needs of our clients and communities. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, diverse race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, family status, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status, to help address under-representation and foster greater inclusivity and belonging at SJCG.

By promoting a culture of inclusion and mutual respect, we ensure that our values of care, compassion, and commitment are reflected in every aspect of our work. If you are passionate about making a difference in healthcare and are committed to upholding these values, we encourage you to apply and join us in our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

St. Joseph's Care Group is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities in our job application and hiring process.

WHAT YOU BRING

Education/Experience:

• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) with training and/or certification in a specialty area preferred (i.e., Indigenous field of study, or Indigenous trauma)
• Current registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
• Experience related to client care for people from Indigenous, geriatric, and addictions and mental health populations
• Knowledge and experience in establishing networks of support and accessing community resources and services

Skills/Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice as set out by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
• An individual who is of Indigenous ancestry with an in-depth understanding of Indigenous culture and tradition, worldview, history, ceremonies, and language preferred
• Comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health of Indigenous people and the social consequences and risk factors associated with client conditions (i.e., addictions, trauma, mental health)
• Demonstrated knowledge and commitment to the Health Ethics Guide developed by the Catholic Health Alliance of Canada (CHAC), First Nations principles of data ownership, control, access, and possession (OCAP), and Accreditation Canada/Health Standard Organization British Columbia Cultural Safety and Humility Standard
• Well versed in The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's final report (specifically the healthcare calls to action), the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous –Specific Racism and Discrimination in Healthcare and adult learning principles and practices
• Ability to manage a complex clinical practice in a health care setting
• Understand the importance of trauma informed practice through a cultural lens
• Knowledge of Indigenous ceremonies and traditional healing practices
• Knowledge of Indigenous cultures, historical trauma, intergenerational trauma, history, and social determinants of health
• Assessment and treatment of complex psychosocial issues
• Knowledge of Indigenous history, culture and worldview
• Ability to effectively communicate, both orally and in writing
• Ability to deliver presentations to a variety of audiences
• Ability to establish effective and collaborative working relationships with a variety of stakeholders including community partners within the Indigenous community
• Strong time management and organizational skills
• Appreciation and respect of others cultural teachings and understanding and, working within a multi-faith setting
• Ability to work collaboratively within an inter-professional team environment
• Demonstrated computer proficiency including skills with MS Office applications
• Competent within the meaning of the Occupational Health & Safety Act
• Demonstrated regular attendance at work

Asset:

• Ability to speak Anishinaabemowin or Anishininimowin is preferred

Conditions of Employment:

• This position shall be conditional upon a satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) where indicated, to ensure the absence of relevant criminal convictions.
• Ability to travel to various work locations as required and provide own transportation
• Ability to work within partner organizations, including school board environments, and adhere to partner policies and procedures as required under service agreements
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, to meet service needs

WHY JOIN ST. JOSEPH'S CARE GROUP

St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG) offers a meaningful career for those seeking to make a difference in health care. As a leading provider of complex care, rehabilitation, long-term care, and mental health and addiction services, SJCG is recognized for its commitment to high-quality compassionate, and people-centred care.

Experience a rewarding career and lifestyle you'll love at the heart of Thunder Bay Here's what awaits you when you join our team:

• Enjoy a Competitive, Forward-Thinking Compensation Package: We offer salaries and benefits that recognize your talent and dedication.
• Secure Your Future: Become a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) – our organization will contribute $1.26 for every $1 you invest in your pension, ensuring a strong, stable retirement for your future.
• Make Your Move Easier: We provide relocation assistance to help you settle in (some conditions apply).
• Thrive in a Supportive Team: Grow your career and make meaningful contributions alongside dedicated and passionate colleagues.
• Commitment to Diversity: We are proud to be an inclusive workplace that celebrates the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of every team member.
• Advance Your Skills: Access ongoing professional development, advanced education, and a tuition loan program.
• Continuous Improvement: We foster a culture where every team member is empowered to identify opportunities for improvement and share ideas.
• Prioritize Your Wellbeing: Take advantage of comprehensive wellness initiatives and access to an Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Shape the Future: Get involved in research and teaching initiatives that make a real difference.
• Be Recognized and Rewarded: Benefit from employee recognition, discount, and referral programs.
• Live Where Adventure Meets Opportunity: Nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay offers the perfect blend of vibrant city life and breathtaking outdoor escapes.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

All job postings will follow the requirements outlined in the applicable collective agreement or the Terms & Conditions of Employment. If the job is not filled through this process, the posting will remain on our external site until the position is successfully filled.

Applicants who are part of the bargaining unit will be given priority consideration as set out in the relevant collective agreement. It is the applicant's responsibility to clearly demonstrate that they have the skills required for the position they are applying for.