Reporting to the program manager, the High Support Counsellor will be responsible for supporting individuals experiencing complex and co-occurring mental health challenges who live in independent apartment units and require a high level of service on a daily basis.
Their main goal is to promote independence, support life skills development, community integration, mental health recovery, and overall wellness.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Assist clients in developing and maintaining life and social skills necessary to obtain independency in the community
Administer standardized assessments and screening tools (i.e., OCAN, Columbia SSS)
Provide individualized goal assessments and follow through with supportive counselling
Identify risk factors to decrease harm by establishing and implementing recovery and crisis plans
Support and provide behavioral interventions
Assist in developing empowerment skills to combat stigma through self-advocacy
Work independently and collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team to carry out mental health recovery and support
Understand and be able to integrate a philosophy of client-centred care into daily responsibilities
Demonstrate a strong commitment to quality care and service delivery based on SHIP's Mission and Values
Ensure appropriate records are kept and make sure that statistical information are maintained as per agency standards
Adherence to agency Health & Safety Program and the Client Safety Framework in the promotion of client safety
Follow organizational Infection Prevention and Control policies and procedures, and safe use of Personal Protective Equipment at all time
Perform additional duties as required/delegated by Management
Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Social Services work or equivalent
3+ years' experience supporting individuals with mental health challenges or equivalent
Individual and group counselling skills
Community mental health case management and housing support experience an asset
Excellent assessment, risk management, and crisis intervention skills
Experience with forensic and housing systems
Knowledge of psychiatric symptomology and medication
Knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook)
A vehicle, valid driver's license, and adequate insurance coverage
Valid Certification in First Aid & CPR
Training in ASIST and CPI
Reporting Function:
The High Support Counsellor will report directly to the Program Manager. They will work with both internal and external customers and will interact with all levels within the organization. They will be a support system, resource, and advocator for the team and the Organization.
They will have no supervisory responsibilities.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:
Hours will be every second Saturday and Sunday 12:30pm - 8:30pm
Able to sit for prolonged periods of time
Able to answer and communicate telephone calls and general computer use
Able to lift up to 20lbs (product, documents, etc.)
Vehicle travel to sites, meetings, appointments
You may be required to administer naloxone in response to suspected opioid overdoses, and must complete appropriate training to recognize overdose symptoms, safely administer naloxone via nasal spray or injection, and follow emergency protocols including contacting emergency services. You will receive training within the first eight weeks of employment.