MHSU Indigenous Access

Job Description In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position. Under the direction of the Clinical Coordinator or designate, the MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor works within the organization’s framework and standards and a rehabilitation/recovery harm reduction focused model. The counsellor works as a member of a multidisciplinary team and with other community agencies to provide triage, immediate support, assessment, urgent clinical response, harm reduction, short‑term psychotherapeutic/stabilization services, exploration of community resources and client needs, liaison and coordination with other community services. Participation in planning priorities for service to adults with mental health and addictions problems is required. Travel may be required. Transportation arrangements must meet operational requirements of Island Health and may require the use of a personal vehicle and a valid BC Driver’s License. Qualifications Baccalaureate Degree in a health‑related discipline from an approved post‑secondary institution. Recognized post‑basic education related to mental illness and/or alcohol and drug addiction; minimum two (years) of experience working within or with Indigenous communities; two (2) recent years of related experience in areas requiring understanding of trauma in the context of Indigenous people; understanding of mental health and alcohol and drug addiction issues; psychiatric and suicide/homicide risk assessments, psychiatric and addictions treatment methodologies, crisis intervention and response techniques and strategies, the change process, and community dynamics; knowledge of available programs and services, their interrelationships, and their function in delivering care in the community; knowledge of applicable legislation, such as the Mental Health Act, Child Protection legislation, and the Adult Guardianship Act; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Be a person of Indigenous ancestry. Valid BC Driver’s License. Skills and Abilities Demonstrated ability to work within VIHA’s framework and standards within a rehabilitation/recovery, harm reduction focused model. Demonstrated interpersonal and clinical skills, including crisis intervention, stabilization, de‑escalation and brief psychotherapy. Demonstrated knowledge of support services and resources within respective geography available for Indigenous clients. Knowledge of the significance of culture in relation to individual, family and community health services. Demonstrated basic knowledge of health and wellness services available on Vancouver Island for Indigenous clients (First Nation, Métis, Inuit). Demonstrated an understanding of Canadian colonization, Indigenous‑specific racism and its impact on the current health and wellness of Indigenous peoples. Knowledge of the significance of providing culturally safe healthcare engagements and environments for Indigenous peoples. Demonstrated organizational, problem‑solving and teaching skills. Demonstrated judgment, good observation and client assessment skills, tact and empathy. Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. Ability to work professionally and effectively with very difficult/at‑risk clients. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team and to proactively manage and resolve conflict. Ability to promote positive change and independence. Ability to prioritize and organize workload. Ability to carry out the duties of the position. Ability to foster good public relations. Ability to operate a personal computer with a variety of Windows‑based software and other office equipment. Link to Full Job Description Seniority Level Entry level Employment Type Full‑time Job Function Health Care Provider Industries Hospitals and Health Care #J-18808-Ljbffr