The Counsellor will meet clients individually to provide assessment and treatment interventions and ensure the most appropriate interventions are offered. They will participate in case conferences and contribute to treatment planning and case management. The Counsellor will facilitate psychoeducational groups and provide supportive counselling. The Counsellor will assist clients in navigating the health system with respect to referrals to other agencies, completion of applications and paperwork, and advocating for services. All services are provided in accordance with the mission and established protocols of the Agency.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:

• A university degree in a relevant, health-related discipline of study is required; Bachelor of Psychology is preferred.
• Two years’ relevant experience providing services to adults who live with a concurrent disorder, preferably in a community setting.
• Two years’ experience working in community mental health and/or addiction, policing, or criminal justice system.
• Formal post-graduate training or certification in substance use and concurrent disorders is required; Current designation as an International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor is an asset.
• Current First Aid and CPR Certification required.
• Course/workshop in concurrent disorders or equivalent (SMART Recovery Facilitator Training) preferred.
• Group facilitation experience is considered an asset.
• Workshop in Motivational Interviewing preferred.
• Demonstrated crisis intervention skills/experience and ability to respond to crisis situations as they arise; completion of certification in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI), Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), or equivalent is preferred.
• Experience in program development and evaluation an asset.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License, access to a vehicle, and vehicle insurance with a minimum of $2,000,000 liability.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills can establish and maintain positive relationships.
• Well-developed problem-solving, prioritization and conflict resolution skills.
• Demonstrated advanced clinical reasoning and decision-making skills.
• Analytical skills to gather and disseminate data from various sources.
• Ability to adapt to changing environments and manage time effectively; Willingness to be flexible and facilitate change.
• A clear understanding of and ability to demonstrate ethical and professional standards, boundaries, and judgement.
• Average to above-average computer and keyboarding skills.
• Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector police records check required.
• Ability to work within Mental Health Act, Occupational Health & Safety Act, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care guidelines, Psychosocial Rehabilitation Practitioner’s Code of Ethics, Best Practices, LLGAMH program standards.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical and professional standards and boundaries.

• Establish a therapeutic relationship which is client-centered and based on a partnership.
• Provide individual psychoeducational counselling sessions to clients.
• Co-facilitate psychoeducational groups about substance use, trauma, relationships, and other relevant topics.
• Attend and participate in case conferences to discuss clients’ progress and treatment plans.
• Collaborate with the multi-disciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes for clients.
• Use evidence-based interventions, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy to support clients in their recovery journey.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records and documentation.
• Maintain strict confidentiality, understanding the limits of confidentiality.
• Attend regular training and professional development sessions to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude and belief in clients’ capacity to change.
• Maintain a high level of organization and attention to detail.