Disability Counsellor

at  Vancouver Community College

WHO WE ARE

We acknowledge that Vancouver Community College (VCC) is located on the traditional unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of this land from time immemorial.
For over 55 years, VCC has been a leader in innovative, experiential post-secondary learning. We’re one of B.C’s top employers and we are proud to inspire students to discover their passions, gain essential skills, and learn what it takes to succeed in a competitive workforce.
At VCC, we respect and celebrate our differences, and are committed to the work of decolonization, accessibility, and inclusivity for all. Be a part of creating an inclusive community that provides equitable opportunities for Indigenous and diverse representation, participation, and success for everyone.
We value lived experience and encourage applications from members of all groups experiencing barriers to equity. Come join the VCC community as we shape the future together.

POSITION SUMMARY

Reporting to the Department Head of Disability Services, the Disability Services Counsellor collaborates with the College community to promote an accessible, equitable and supportive learning environment for students with disabilities. The Disability Services Counsellor is responsible for coordinating reasonable accommodations and support services for students with disabilities in accordance with VCC Policy and BC Human Rights legislation; reviewing and interpreting complex medical and psychoeducational documentation to determine eligibility for services; synthesizing data and devising appropriate and reasonable accommodation plans; coordinating the implementation of accommodations; initially orientating students to services and meeting students individually as needed regarding time management, study skills, referral to resources, etc.; and functioning as a resource to the College community on accessibility issues.

• Works collaboratively as part of the Disability Services team to provide services to students with disabilities.
• Creates reasonable academic accommodation plans by collecting and synthesizing information from psychometric testing, medical documentation, psychological assessments, self-reports, academic/course content and/or other relevant information.
• Applies knowledge of current legislation and trends to promote achievement of the College’s duty to accommodate.
• Forms positive relationships with others including students and their support network, faculty, staff, other post-secondary institutions and relevant community organizations.
• Collaborates with Disability Services Advisors to arrange services and accommodations in a timely manner.
• Supports students to independently access College services and processes such as admissions, assessment, advising, registration, financial aid and academic departments as needed.
• Provides counselling services tailored towards students’ abilities and goals such as career exploration, education planning, study strategies, time management etc.
• Provides triage and emergency counselling support for any student.
• Collaborates with students and faculty in resolving disability-related issues that may be a barrier to academic success. Refer student to appropriate campus and community support services.
• Liaises with faculty, staff and the VCC Student Union on issues relevant to accessibility and student success.
• Develops and facilitates group sessions including orientations, psychoeducational workshops, presentations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintains case files and confidential student records in accordance with College policy and privacy laws.
• Participates in departmental meetings, committees, task forces and working groups.
• Liaises with Federal and Provincial Ministry programs for students with Disabilities.
• Consults with Disability Services team, other post-secondary institutions and stakeholders and makes recommendations on systemic accessibility issues.
• Develops, revises and updates policy and operations manuals in collaborating with relevant stakeholders.
• Engages in continuous learning on the provision of Disability Services within a post-secondary setting.
• Performs other duties as required.