Job Description

Mental Health Worker

Spirit of the Children Society - New Westminster, BC

Job description

Spirit of the Children Society is seeking a Mental Health Worker, for a part-time opportunity (17.5 hours per week). The Mental Health Worker will be responsible for the delivery of programs using trauma informed practices and models to ensure client focused and culturally relevant treatment content are provided using a holistic approach.

We are looking for a candidate with mental health treatment facilitation experience, an in-depth understanding the impact of trauma on First Nations, its complexity, and is willing to work as a team member.

The focus of the work is to create an environment that fosters client safety, choice and empowerment, particularly in group facilitation processes and content. This position will participate in the development and implementation of the trauma healing process and knowledge exchange with clients impacted by historic and intergenerational trauma.

Candidate must have experience and proven ability in planning, preparing and leading dynamic interactive group sessions using various trauma informed and delivery holistic methods. All candidates will be asked to demonstrate this skill at the interview by presenting a written workshop plan.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct intake assessments to determine mental health and housing needs.

Develop individualized support plans with short- and long-term goals.

Provide crisis intervention and emotional support.

Advocate for clients in housing, healthcare, and social services

Assist clients in maintaining tenancy by providing landlord mediation and problem-solving support.

Offer life skills coaching, such as budgeting, conflict resolution, and self-care.

Monitor housing conditions and ensure clients have access to basic necessities.

Provide psychoeducation on mental health, trauma, and coping strategies.

Connect clients to therapy, addiction services, and peer support programs.

Facilitate wellness activities such as mindfulness, self-care workshops, or group discussions.

Work with social workers, healthcare providers, and housing coordinators to ensure holistic care.

Facilitate referrals to income support, employment programs, and food security resources.

Collaborate with Indigenous organizations for culturally appropriate support when applicable.

Required Education, and Qualifications

Certificate in mental health counselling or a bachelor's degree in related field, such as counselling, psychology, social work

Commensurate combination of work experience or minimum 2 years' experience in related counselling experience of First Nations clients

Mental health counselling and program facilitation: 2 years (Preferred)

Skills and Abilities:

Demonstrated background and knowledge of First Nations peoples' customs, culture, and impact of trauma issues, and cultural oppression.

Knowledge of trauma informed practices and first-rate group facilitation skills.

Qualities including sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy; strong negotiation, and consensus-building skills; the ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a team holistic approach

Emotional Competencies that include adapting to changing situations.

Excellent oral and written communication skills. Computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and email are an asset

Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.

Outcomes & Impact

Improved client stability in housing and mental health

Increased access to community support services

Reduced crisis incidents through early intervention

Decreased evictions and improved tenancy sustainability

Enhanced client independence and self-sufficiency

Strengthened relationships between tenants and landlords

Increased client engagement in mental health and addiction recovery services

Improved coping skills and emotional resilience

Improved coordination between mental health, housing, and social services

Additional Information

All workers must be aware of the potential for allegations to be brought against them by clients and therefore, must conduct themselves in a manner where behaviours/actions cannot be misinterpreted. Workers are required to take precautionary measures and to follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety. Workers must be aware of the risks when working with potentially hostile or aggressive clients and follow safety guidelines to ensure their safety.

Workers must maintain confidentiality, undergo annual successful criminal record checks, and to be sensitive to diversity among clients, co-workers and the community.

Spirit of the Children Society aims to significantly improve Indigenous employment within our society and enhance opportunities for Indigenous peoples. Per the Canadian Human Rights Commission's Aboriginal Employment Preferences Policy, preference may be given to Indigenous applicants. Please self-Identify in your application materials. Spirit of the Children is in New Westminster, BC.

Job Type: Full-time, ending date March 31, 2026, with the possibility of position continuation into following contract year.

Class Five Driver's License an asset.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits

Dental care Extended health care Vacation Time Off
Schedule:

Monday to Friday Work Location: In Person
Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $33.75-$34.90 per hour

Expected hours: 17.5 per week

Benefits:

Dental care Extended health care On-site parking Paid time off
Flexible language requirement:

French not required
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Licence/Certification:

Counselling Certificate (required) Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Expected start date: 2025-06-02