Job Description

Our Organization - Mission Statement: "A Helping Hand to Justice"

The Native Courtworker and Counselling Association of British Columbia (NCCABC) provides culturally-appropriate services to Indigenous people and communities consistent with their needs. Our services are accomplished by assisting persons involved in the criminal justice system; providing access to counselling and referral services for clients with substance abuse and detox support issues; providing advocate services for Indigenous family and youth. Our dedicated employees are responsible to the needs of the community by providing quality, innovative and educational options where people are treated with dignity and respect.

The Position

We are looking for an individual to be responsible for the alcohol and drug counselling activities in the Lower Mainland by doing outreach, developing, reviewing, and evaluating personalized treatment plans, providing information and referrals as well as efficiently managing the administrative duties pertinent to the 12 core functions of the position.

This position is based in NCCABC's Vancouver Counselling Services Office, located at

520 Richards Street, Vancouver,

BC, V6B 3A2.

This position is subject to the policies and procedures of the Association and agreeing to join the BC General Employees' Union (BCGEU).

Duties and Responsibilities

The Alcohol and Drug Counsellor will provide services to approximately one hundred clients per year with a treatment time ranging from three to six months and allocating 15-30 hours of individual treatment as well as group or family treatment when needed. The Incumbent might cover all or some of the areas below, depending on operational feasibility:

Administrative

Facilitate triage and screening of all individuals seeking help through the Counselling Services.

Conduct a risk assessment to determine type of service needed and explain the services offered, providing relevant mental health education, recommending other forms of support, and discussing community service options.

Assess regular services and special projects and given reports when requested.

Implement, manage, and complete filing while cross-referencing such special documents as: intake forms, case histories, progress reports, referral forms.

Complete monthly client service data forms as well as input of data into the database.

Counselling

Provide "out-patient" alcohol and drug counselling services to chemically dependent individuals, and their families.

Assess individuals requesting alcohol and drug counselling services.

Make referrals to other community health and service agencies when required.

Provide a "follow up" service to referred clients through telephone calls, letters, or personal contact with other agencies.

Intervene, upon request, in alcohol and/or drug related crisis situations.

Act as referral agent for clients requiring services such as legal aid, income assistance, child protection services, alcohol and drug counselling, marriage, and family counselling, sexual abuse offender and victim counselling, physical abuse offender and victim counselling, suicide counseling.

Maintain a manual and electronic client information system and record of group activities.

Outreach

Provide outreach by identifying alcohol and drug related issues in the Vancouver community and collaborating with other agencies in the development of chemical dependency awareness activities, programs, projects, and seminars.

Assist in the planning and development of self-help development groups and informational programs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Education

Knowledge and understanding of Indigenous culture and traditions and a demonstrated ability to work with Indigenous people.

We are seeking individuals with an Indigenous background as per section of Section 41 of the Human Rights Code

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor, coupled with excellent public speaking and facilitation skills.

General understanding of the process, policies, and procedures of such federal and provincial agencies and departments as the Ministry of Child and Family Services, court Orders and other agencies.

Knowledge of the programs and services available to those with alcohol and drug abuse related issues.

Must be able to travel. A class 5 driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle is a requirement for this position

Must be able to exercise a considerable level of ingenuity, judgement, and analysis, use of independent thought and initiative in applying special skills and knowledge towards problem solving,

The successful candidate will be subject to a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

Why us

If you are a compassionate individual, possess innovative ideas, and can support others in achieving a healthier and satisfying life free from alcohol and drugs, then you will be starting a rewarding career with a reputable organization.

Application Process

The deadline for applications is Friday, September 26, 2025. To apply, please enclose a cover letter, along with your resume to:

vjoseph@nccabc.com

with the subject line: Indigenous Drug and Alcohol Counsellor

Be advised that only the candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in this position.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 6 months

Pay: $52,902.18-$59,603.10 per year

Application question(s):

Do you identify as First Nations, Metis, Inuit?
Licence/Certification:

Addictions Counselling Certificate (required)
Willingness to travel:

25% (preferred)
Work Location: In person