Job Description

Join Our Team as a Youth Substance Use Counsellor

Grounded in harm reduction and the bio-psycho-social-spiritual model, the Youth Substance Use Counsellor supports youth and families by providing intake, assessment, education, treatment, and referrals for alcohol and drug challenges. Reporting to the Clinical Director and supported by our dedicated youth team, you'll also help plan and deliver innovative treatment, education, and prevention programs tailored to youth, families, schools, and community groups across the Cranbrook/Kimberley area.

Responsibilities

Providing Supportive Counselling:

Offer individual and group counselling to youth navigating substance use challenges, as well as support for their family members. Utilizing harm reduction strategies, we aim to create a safe, supportive environment that fosters growth, healing, and stronger connections for everyone involved.

Creating and Sharing Programs

: With support, develop and facilitate educational and prevention programs tailored to youth, families, and community groups, including school-based initiatives and outreach activities.

Connecting with the Community

: Engage in outreach efforts to connect with youth in non-traditional settings, building trust and providing substance use support in a way that respects their unique needs.

Guiding Case Management

: Conduct assessments, maintain thorough documentation, and assist youth in connecting with appropriate services and community resources.

Promoting Education and Prevention:

Design and deliver community-wide education activities that emphasize harm reduction and culturally sensitive prevention approaches for diverse community groups.

Education, Training, and Experience

? Bachelor's degree in a related discipline suitable for substance use work. A master's degree in social work or counselling would be considered an asset. Candidates with a combination of education and equivalent experience are also encouraged to apply.

? Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience in substance use counselling or related youth services.

Skills and Knowledge

? Experience in individual, family, and group counselling.

? Experience working with youth experiencing concurrent disorders and mental health issues.

? Understanding of mental health and substance use continuum of care, including current best practices.

? Knowledge and experience working with diverse youth populations, including Indigenous communities, LGBTQIA+ youth, and other marginalized groups.

? Experience developing and delivering harm reduction-focused public education and prevention programs

Skills and Abilities

Client Engagement:

Demonstrate warmth, empathy, and good judgment to build trusting relationships with clients, respecting their age, gender, and individual circumstances.

Teamwork & Collaboration:

Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Communication Skills:

Possess strong verbal and written communication abilities, with a knack for maintaining accurate, respectful, and timely documentation.

Inclusive Approach:

Provide non-judgmental, culturally sensitive services and relate well to people from a variety of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds.

Flexibility and Resilience:

Show adaptability to meet the evolving needs of clients and the community, while demonstrating initiative, patience, and resilience.

Essential Requirements:

Hold a valid driver's license and access to your vehicle, along with current First Aid/CPR certification. Ability to pass a Criminal Record Check.

Job Details

Location:

Cranbrook/Kimberley, BC

Collective Agreement:

Health Science Professionals Bargaining Association (HSPBA)

FTE:

1.0 (37.5 hours/week)

Classification:

P1 Allied to Social Worker

Range:

1st Year $42.27/hour to 6th year $52.68/hour

Closing Date:

Open until filled

Why Join Us?

At EKASS, you'll join a dedicated team passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities. We prioritize work-life balance, foster an inclusive and collaborative workplace culture, and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your well-being and professional growth.

Paid time off Municipal Pension Plan Extended Health Care & Dental Benefits Life insurance Employer-paid training/education opportunities

Application Process

Submit your cover letter and resume to Shayne Bettke, Director of Operations at sbettke@ekass.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $42.27-$52.68 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress Company events Company pension Dental care Disability insurance Employee assistance program Extended health care Flexible schedule Life insurance Mileage reimbursement On-site parking Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision care
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person