Access Worker

Rise People, Inc.; Sault Ste. Marie; Hybrid; CAD 38,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

HOOPP enrollment

Competitive compensation

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

CMHA Algoma is seeking an Access Worker to serve as the central contact for individuals seeking mental health and addiction services across the district. You will welcome clients in person, by phone, or online and help them access the appropriate level of care while documenting interactions per agency standards.

We require a two-year diploma in a Human Services field, registration with a regulatory body if eligible, and at least one year of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Two-year diploma in a Human Services related field.
• Current registration with OCSWSSW or regulated body under the Regulated Health Professions Act, if eligible.
• Minimum one year of experience in mental health and addictions, with community-based services.

Responsibilities

• Navigate the mental health and addiction system for clients, families, and providers.
• Interface with clients by phone, walk-in, or electronic means and provide information and brief support.
• Screen contacts for risk and priority and coordinate referrals to appropriate partners.
• Maintain an up-to-date directory of community services and document interactions per agency standards.
• Provide back-up support to the Clubhouse program as required.
• Participate in team meetings, peer consultation, and quality improvement activities.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Computer skills

Teamwork

Bilingual English/French (preferred)

Education

Diploma in Human Services

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Compensation: $27.31-$33.86 per Local 684 collective agreement

Union/Non-Union: Union, OPSEU/SEFPO Local 684

Reports To: Program Supervisor

ABOUT CMHA Algoma

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Algoma Branch, is dedicated to improving the mental health of all people in our community. We provide accessible, recovery-oriented services and promote mental wellness through collaboration, compassion, and respect.

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Access Worker to serve as a central point of contact for individuals seeking mental health and addiction services. The successful candidate will provide a welcoming and accessible environment — by telephone, walk-in, or electronic means — helping people navigate available services across the district and linking them to the appropriate level of care. This role is carried out in accordance with the mission, vision, and values of CMHA Algoma, relevant legislation, and organizational policies.

What You’ll Do

• Facilitate effective navigation of the mental health and addiction system, helping clients, families, and service providers locate appropriate services.
• Engage with clients by telephone, electronically, and on a walk-in basis, providing information and brief support.
• Screen contacts and assess for risk and priority as appropriate.
• Coordinate referrals to mental health and addiction partners based on eligibility criteria.
• Maintain an up-to-date directory of community agencies, services, and supports.
• Identify gaps in service and trends in client needs within the mental health and addiction system.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation in accordance with agency standards.
• Provide back-up support to the Clubhouse program as required.
• Participate in team meetings, peer consultation, quality improvement activities, and ongoing professional development.

What You’ll Bring

• Minimum two-year diploma in a Human Services related field.
• Current registration with OCSWSSW or a regulated body under the Regulated Health Professions Act, if eligible.
• Minimum one year of experience in mental health and addictions, with an emphasis on community-based services.
• Extensive knowledge of mental health and addictions services, community resources, and standardized screening and assessment tools.
• Ability to apply Recovery principles and empowerment-oriented philosophies in work with clients.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong computer skills and competency in relevant software applications.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Acceptable Police Vulnerable Sector Check upon hire, to be maintained throughout employment.
• Ability to provide effective services in both English and French is preferred.

Why Join CMHA Algoma?

• Meaningful work that supports mental health and community well-being.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• HOOPP (Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan) enrollment for eligible employees.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement.
• A supportive, inclusive, and psychologically safe workplace culture.

Note: This is a bargaining unit position. In accordance with the Collective Agreement, internal bargaining unit employees who meet the minimum qualifications, skill, ability, and experience requirements for the vacancy shall be granted an interview and considered prior to any external candidates.

CMHA Algoma values diversity and is an equal-opportunity employer. Accommodations are available upon request throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

CMHA Algoma does not use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the hiring process.

Reason for Posting: Backfill current position