Job Description

About us


Since 1936, Columbia College has offered quality educational programs, including a University Transfer Program fully integrated into the B.C. Transfer System, an Associate Degree Program certified by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, a University Preparatory Program, and a High School Program certified by the Ministry of Education. Thousands of Canadian and international students have progressed through Columbia College's programs to Canadian universities or successful careers.


The Opportunity





Columbia College is seeking a full-time Counsellor to join our Student Services department.



The working schedule is Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week. This is a 20-month contract position with the possibility of being extended.



Start date: November/December

SUMMARY:

The Counsellor provides mental health support services to Columbia College students by offering counselling services, implementing wellness initiatives and events, and working collaboratively with other College staff members, professionals, and agencies in the community. The Counsellor evaluates student needs, assesses risk, responds to crises, offers support, provides resources, delivers information, implements events, and designs initiatives to enhance the mental health of Columbia College students.


Key Responsibilities


Provide individual mental health counselling sessions to students in-person or via video/audio/online chat.
Provide crisis intervention, risk assessment, and emergency support for students in distress and ensure appropriate referral, monitoring, safety plans, and follow-up as necessary, ensuring confidentiality and adhering to reporting requirements.
Maintain accurate and confidential counselling records according to legal and ethical standards.
Refer students to appropriate Columbia College and/or community support services and programs as needed.
Maintain current knowledge of mental health research, best practices, and Columbia College and community resources.
Assist in planning, developing, and implementing mental health programs, events, and initiatives (including Orientation, semesterly wellness events, workshops, seminars, groups, training opportunities, outreach activities, academic advising programs, classroom visits, surveys, etc.)
Maintain accurate, appropriate, and current mental health information for students (including web resources, online modules, support videos, printed materials, etc.)
Ensure alignment of mental health services with existing institutional policies, practices, and procedures, and assist with policy review as needed.
Collaborate with other Columbia College staff members to support student wellbeing (including accepting referrals, providing consultation, delivering psychoeducation, facilitating referrals, etc.)
Maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations and build new community partnerships to enhance student access to diverse support services.
Receive, review, issue, and store relevant mental health documentation as required (including medical notes, learning assessments, psychological reports, counselling documentation, etc.)
Collaborate and consult with other healthcare providers, if indicated, in accordance with legal and ethical standards.
Support the work and professional development of student members serving on wellness committees.
Promote, facilitate, and monitor student use of the TELUS Health Student Support program (including facilitating staff and student information sessions, providing technical assistance, liaising with the Account Manager, etc.)
Assist with the implementation of procedures articulated in Columbia College policies (including the Harassment and Discrimination Policy, Sexual Violence and Misconduct Policy, etc.)
Attend and participate in department meetings, division meetings, and case consultations as needed/required.

Professional Development

Participate in required and scheduled professional development activities each semester.
Continue to develop professional skills and knowledge through formal and informal means.
Participate in planning, developing, and implementing staff development programs.

Professional Responsibilities:

Attend commencement ceremonies, scholarship/award ceremonies, and other events as required.
Maintain official records and collect data as required by College policies.
Provide recommendations for the purchase and maintenance of educational, instructional, and counselling supplies/equipment.
Consult on division personnel needs, assist with preparing position descriptions, and serve on interview committees as needed.
Adhere to the work schedule as defined by the negotiated contract.
Maintain clinical records in alignment with ethical and legal standards.
Engage in professional consultation and clinical supervision as needed.


Ideal Candidate

Master's degree

in counselling.
Registration in, or eligibility for registration in, a professional counselling association (BCACC or CCC certification, etc.)
A minimum of three years of counselling experience.
Experience working in post-secondary or high school settings is an asset.
Previous case supervision and or experience in a leadership role is considered an asset.
Strong knowledge of counselling theories, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed practice.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English.
Ability to relate to diverse faculty, staff, and student populations.
Conscientious, self-motivated, and able to take initiative.
Excellent customer service skills.
Effective time management skills.
A quick learner able to adapt to change.
Must be able to work effectively independently and as a team player with a diverse group of staff and students.
Marketing skills and experience are an asset.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Compensation


In addition to working with an inclusive, progressive group of people, we offer a competitive compensation package which includes:



Annual salary gross range of $87,451.19 - $92,384.35 based on qualifications and relevant experience.
All Columbia College employees are covered by the Columbia College Employment Agreement, including a robust health and dental benefits package, fitness allowance, and professional development.

Application Procedure


Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, through our portal



https://www.myavanti.ca/CareersAtColumbiaCollege/



Please note that filling out the entire profile is not mandatory to upload the required resume and cover letter on the platform.



For additional information about the application process, please check Columbia College Application Process



Application Deadline:

October 30, 2025

The successful candidate must provide two (2) professional references and a clear criminal records check. We encourage applicants to submit applications as soon as possible, as applicants will be reviewed continuously.





At Columbia College, we foster a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. The College invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including groups traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to the further diversification of our Institution.



We thank all applicants for their interest in the position; only those selected for an interview will be contacted.


Company


Columbia College
Location


Student Services
Opening Date


Oct 16, 2025
Closing Date


Oct 30, 2025 05:00 PM
Requirements

Type

Description

Status

MAST COUN Master's Degree Required Before Job Starts


BCACC BC Association of Clinical Counsellors Required Before Job Starts