Crisis Intervention Specialist, Civilian

at  Canadian Mental Health Association

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Crisis Intervention Specialist (CIS) – Civilian

ABOUT US

The Canadian Mental Health Association – Halton Region (CMHA Halton) is a leading provider of adult and youth mental health services in the Region of Halton. We are driven by our cause to provide responsive mental health for everyone through equitable services targeted for people living with mental health and/or substance use concerns.

WHY WORK FOR CMHA HALTON

CMHA Halton offers a supportive team environment, flexible work environment, training opportunities, competitive vacation package and comprehensive benefits/pension package. We have an enthusiastic team who are dedicated to supporting individuals with mental health concerns within a client-focused environment. Individuals seeking new challenges and opportunities for professional growth are encouraged to apply.
CHMA Halton strives to build an inclusive culture with a staff group that represents the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We are committed to reducing systemic barriers to employment and our services that have traditionally impacted members from the following groups, Black, Indigenous People, and other racially visible persons, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and persons with disabilities. If you are a member of one of these equity-seeking groups, you are encouraged to self-identify in your cover letter or your resume. Please also feel free to identify your preferred pronouns when applying.
Role Overview
CMHA Halton is seeking one full-time Crisis Intervention Specialist. The role is a 2-year contract position at 37.5 hours per week. This position is part of a pilot project in partnership between CMHA Halton and Halton Regional Police Services (HRPS)to broaden access to diverse communities. This new civilian led team will be comprised of two (2) CMHA Halton Crisis Intervention Specialists who will offer step-down mobile outreach for members of the community who have been assessed as having a need for mental health support but do not require a police response. The position resides within an integrated team of individuals who work closely together to provide meaningful programs, crisis intervention, connections to community services, and support to people affected by mental illness.

Qualifications:

• University degree in a health care or social services related discipline
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience working in the mental health field, specifically handling crisis intervention
• Licensed, certified or registered with one of the following professional colleges or associations is required (OCSSWSW, CNO, CPBAO) or A-EMCA certified paramedic through MOHLTC-EHS.
• Understanding of trauma-informed, motivational interviewing or skills-based techniques (i.e. CBT/DBT) interventions is considered an asset.
• Working knowledge of the mental health field and crisis intervention
• Demonstrated ability to provide one to one and group support to clients, families and friends
• Knowledge of relevant mental health legislation including the Mental Health Act
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Demonstrated conflict management and resolution skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in MS applications
• Knowledge of EMHware an asset
• Training in CPR, first aid and ASIST is an asset
• Vulnerable sector criminal record search required upon hire
• The ability to speak any second language is valued and is considered an asse

• Working in a civilian team of two, will provide intensive short-term support, crisis intervention and service coordination to residents of Halton Region
• Ensure a client centered approach by ensuring that the correct level of response is provided to the client (i.e. Halton Police/CIS or new Civilian Co-Response Team), based on a comprehensive review of each crisis call/referral
• Participate in daily huddles to conduct client case reviews and risk assessments
• Provide culturally responsive care that prioritizes diverse and intersecting identities and creates an identity safe space for clients
• Make referrals on behalf of clients to a wide variety of community programs and services
• Commit to the use of the recovery model while providing client service
• Support health, safety and wellness according to relevant legislation and agency policies and procedures
• Provide a wide range of accessible services including outreach assessments, telephone support, referrals and interventions to prevent further crisis
• Complete mental status examinations and assess risk in outreach environments
• Work in collaboration with CMHA Halton crisis workers, police and community partners to build an effective community crisis network
• Build positive relationships with communities and agencies to become mutual resources
• Develop tools and resources to manage client crisis, develop strategies to assist clients to prevent further crisis and establish personal goals that move clients towards recovery
• Engage clients to participate in their crisis and recovery planning
• Provide crisis support and services via the COAST crisis line
• Provide support to the clients support network as appropriate (e.g. managing mental health issues, crisis education, problem solving, etc.)
• Comply with Crisis Response Service Standards
• May be required to attend visits with Halton Police as back-up Crisis Intervention Specialist but will primarily work on our civilian co-response team
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• University degree in a health care or social services related discipline
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience working in the mental health field, specifically handling crisis intervention
• Licensed, certified or registered with one of the following professional colleges or associations is required (OCSSWSW, CNO, CPBAO) or A-EMCA certified paramedic through MOHLTC-EHS.
• Understanding of trauma-informed, motivational interviewing or skills-based techniques (i.e. CBT/DBT) interventions is considered an asset.
• Working knowledge of the mental health field and crisis intervention
• Demonstrated ability to provide one to one and group support to clients, families and friends
• Knowledge of relevant mental health legislation including the Mental Health Act
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Demonstrated conflict management and resolution skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Proficiency in MS applications
• Knowledge of EMHware an asset
• Training in CPR, first aid and ASIST is an asset
• Vulnerable sector criminal record search required upon hire
• The ability to speak any second language is valued and is considered an asset

CMHA Halton will support any accommodations that may be required for you to actively participate in the recruitment process. Please email careers@cmhahrb.ca if you wish to review this job posting in an alternative format or if you would like to request an accommodation.