Counsellor I

Opportunity

The Department of Wellness and Psychological Services in Student Affairs invites applications for a full-time tenure-track appointment at the rank of Counsellor I, commencing July 1, 2024, subject to final budgetary approval.

In this position, you will serve as a member of a multi-disciplinary team with the primary role of supporting student mental health, academic success, and well-being. You will be primarily responsible for providing professional individual counselling, case management and general assessment services to students enrolled at MacEwan University, with the opportunity to develop and implement mental health initiatives that align with the strategic goals of Wellness and Psychological Services and the University. While applying a systemic approach to help develop the social well-being and social functioning of students, you will simultaneously work to address broader social issues within the university that may act as a barrier to accessing resources and support. The role will involve service opportunities to the campus and broader community and includes an optional scholarly component. 

Key responsibilities include:

Providing in-person and telehealth/virtual counselling and psychotherapy for a broad range of mental health and wellness concerns, while occasionally providing career development and educational counselling services when appropriate; Providing general assessment services of health and well-being to address students’ presenting concerns, determining appropriate treatment plans and proactively engaging students in prevention; Intervening and evaluating clients in collaboration with the other professionals involved; Supporting students at risk, on and off campus, helping them identify and understand problem areas in their lives; Connecting students with internal and external resources to facilitate successful treatment planning; Providing safe and affirming counselling for students identifying with minoritized and/or marginalized equity seeking groups, including but not limited to, Indigenous, international, BIPOC, LGBTQ2S+, and students with disabilities; Participating in case consultation activities and department meetings; Participating in University committees and activities, conducting administrative activities related to the professional practice and research functions of the University, and contributing to the intellectual life of the University through public presentations and contributions to the community and society; Developing and facilitating in-person or telehealth/virtual group therapy and psycho-educational workshops; Occasionally providing in-service, presentations, and training modules to the department and to the broader campus community; Improving mental health literacy and leading program coordination, promotion and student support of mental health and wellness initiatives; Working closely with community partners to align our mental health and wellness efforts for students and developing health and wellness resources for students, faculty, and staff; Creating and delivering educational, collaborative, or consultative services related to student mental health or broad mental health initiatives to faculty and staff; Contributing to Wellness and Psychological Services program evaluation, development, and improvement; Remaining familiar and in adherence with the Health Professions Act, Health Information Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, CAP/ACSW Standards of Practice, Canadian Code of Ethics/CASW Code of Ethics and Guideline for Ethical Practice, and the CAP Practice Guidelines for Psychologists; and Optionally, participating in research or scholarly activities that advance knowledge in a Member’s field/discipline.

Skills

You will have:

The ability to work well within and contribute to building an effective multidisciplinary professional team and work constructively in support of leadership within a team; A demonstrated commitment to honouring MacEwan's place in O-day'min as outlined in the University's strategic vision; Creative and effective problem-solving skills; Strong case management skills; The ability to take initiative in service development and demonstrate flexibility in a changing work environment; Exceptional communication skills, including with social media and web-based resource creation and interaction; and Comfort and efficacy working with technologies (, Microsoft Office, video conferencing software such as , Titanium, Electronic Records Management systems for documentation and appointment bookings, etc.) and the capability to operate in a changing technological environment.

Qualifications

You will hold a master’s degree in Counselling/Clinical Psychology or Clinical Social Work and have a professional registration with the College of Alberta Psychologists or the Alberta College of Social Workers. You will also have experience with professional general assessments, counselling, group facilitation, and workshop development. Prior experience in the post-secondary education system would be an asset. Experience supporting and promoting wellness and equity for marginalized populations and individuals requesting help, which may include students who identify as LGBTQ2S+, those living with physical or mental challenges, or survivors of sexual violence, is desired. Preference will be given to candidates who possess a Masters in Social Work with a specialization in clinical social work, and be registered and in good standing with the Alberta College of Social Workers (ACSW). Those working toward a clinical designation may be considered. Participation in Competence Program with ACSW is an expectation of this position.

Please include a cover letter and curriculum vitae with your application. The successful candidate may be requested to provide a current Police Record Check with a Vulnerable Sector Check. Three letters of reference, quoting the competition number and the candidate’s name, should be sent directly from referees to .

Questions about this opportunity may be addressed to Forrest Maridas, Chair of Wellness and Psychological Services, at .

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