ABOUT US:

The Wakenagun Youth Healing Lodge located in Timmins, ON is designed to bridge wellness through culture, specifically spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical well-being. By connecting with traditional culture, the intent is to bring to light meaning, purpose, hope, and belonging.
Our organization deeply values a holistic approach to mental wellness, one that is firmly rooted in cultural competence. We are dedicated to promoting health, preventing harm, and providing education that aligns with the First Nation mental wellness continuum framework.

SUMMARY:

The Mental Health Specialist plays a pivotal role in providing culturally sensitive mental health support to Indigenous youth aged 12-17 within the healing lodge environment. This position demands a compassionate professional with adaptability and a proactive approach in responding to crisis situations, offering guidance, support, and resources to enhance the mental well-being of the youth. The role encompasses support across all hours, with a particular emphasis on evenings and weekends to support the identified times requiring heightened assistance.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Exceptional knowledge of Anishinaabe culture, protocol, as well as having experience working with Elders is essential.
• Speaking an Anishinaabe language or ability to teach and learn with youth is essential.
• Strong knowledge and awareness of Anishinaabe culture and history, with particular emphasis on family violence, child welfare, the impacts of trauma, intergenerational trauma, Anishinaabe youth engagement, and community outreach.
• Proven work experience in crisis supports and ability to mediate conflict.
• Specialized knowledge of trauma, mental health, and substance abuse issues.
• Candidate must be willing to work flexible hours as needed to provide crisis response to youth clients which will include evening, weekend, and overnight hours as needed.
• Skills and experience in presenting workshops and facilitating groups.
• Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to speak Anishinaabe language an asset.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Must possess a valid Ontario Driver’s License and be willing to travel if required.
• Must provide a clear criminal reference check (CPIC), which includes screening for vulnerable sector.

Education

• An Indigenous Learning Degree, BSW, Addictions Counselling, or equivalent is preferred. Native Child and Family Worker, Social Services Worker, Addictions Mental Health Worker, or equivalent diploma with relevant work experience will also be considered.

Experience

• Experience supporting individuals with mental health, addictions and trauma.
• Experience working with Anishinaabe children, youth, and families is essential.
• Experience in organizing functions, events, and land-based outings is required.
• Minimum of three years of work experience within an Anishinaabe organization or community considered an asset.
• Experience in program planning, development, and implementation.

Educational Initiatives:

• Develop and conduct educational workshops or materials aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues among youth, emphasizing preventive measures.
• Tailor these initiatives to the cultural context of the youth and the healing lodge environment

Crisis Intervention and Emotional Support:

• Provide immediate crisis intervention and emotional support to youth experiencing distress, utilizing culturally relevant approaches.
• Conduct thorough risk assessments to gauge urgency and determine appropriate interventions, ensuring safety and well-being.

Individualized Guidance and Support:

• Offer empathetic, active listening to encourage the expression of thoughts and emotions.
• Provide effective and meaningful support in-line with the vision and mission of the healing lodge while incorporating 7 Grandfather teachings.
• Utilize individualized treatment plans and strategies, aligning with established care plans for effective support.

Behavioral Strategy Support and Treatment Plan Implementation:

• Support identified behavioral strategies, providing guidance and reinforcement to youth in alignment with their treatment plans.
• Remain cognizant of and utilize individualized treatment plans to effectively support youth in crisis situations.

Resource Connection and Collaboration:

• Connect youth and their families with suitable mental health resources, including hotlines, counseling services, and culturally appropriate community programs.
• Collaborate closely with mental health professionals and agencies to establish a comprehensive support network for ongoing care.

Record Keeping and Data Compilation:

• Maintain accurate and confidential records for each youth, documenting relevant details, and follow-up actions to ensure continuity of care.
• Compile data on prevalent issues faced by youth, contributing to program enhancement and improvement.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

• Work closely with other mental health professionals, social workers, and healthcare providers, ensuring a coordinated approach to youth mental health care.
• Participate actively in case conferences and team meetings, contributing insights and strategies for ongoing improvement.

Educational Initiatives:

• Develop and conduct educational workshops or materials aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues among youth, emphasizing preventive measures.
• Tailor these initiatives to the cultural context of the youth and the healing lodge environment.