Addiction and Mental Health Worker, Community Homes for Opportunity - Elgin
Addiction and Mental Health Worker, Community Homes for Opportunity
Direct Service - (OPSEU)
Full-Time, Contract (Ending: August 14, 2026)
St. Thomas, Ontario; Multi-site accountability (Elgin Zone)
- Application Deadline: May 26, 2025 -
Every person in our community has the right to safe, affordable, quality housing and to live with dignity and as much independence and choice as possible.
Our Community Homes for Opportunity (CHO) program embodies this ideal by providing mental health and addictions supports to CHO Homes, and encouraging residents to become active members of their community. As a member of the CHO Team, you’ll work with residents and independent CHO Home staff to enhance quality of life, empower residents to gain life skills, grow their strengths, and make choices for their wellbeing.
Consider revitalizing your career and making a difference in your community by joining our team!
Successful candidates must have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) completed within the last six months. To avoid delays, interested applicants are encouraged to apply for a PVSC promptly.
WHAT WE'RE OFFERING:
- Starting wage: $27.14/hour (Level 1 – Direct Service), with a differential based on regulation ($30.01/hour for regulated roles):
- Registered professionals (e.g., OCSWSSW, CNO, COTO, CRPO, CPSO, CPO) receive the differential;
- External applicants start at Level 1, with progression up to Level 8 ($34.41 non-regulated, $37.26 regulated);
- Internal applicants' grid placement follows the Collective Agreement.
- Work hours: 70 hours biweekly, Monday-Friday 9am-4:30pm or compressed work week;
- Benefits: 9% in lieu of benefits;
- Pension: Immediate eligibility for optional enrollment in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE:
Operations:
- Support implementation of new initiatives and policy updates;
- Liaise with Team Lead and Manager regarding discharges and admissions;
- Assist with intake assessments to determine appropriateness for referrals;
- Problem solve and provide feedback on program concerns;
- Ensure services are delivered with integrity, respect, accountability, compassion, and accessibility.
Primary Worker:
- Designated primary worker for approximately 20 tenants;
- Maintain complete and current clinical records;
- Support tenants in maintaining housing and meeting their needs.
Direct Service:
- Support tenants with tenancy issues, life skills, social activities, health, and wellness;
- Provide crisis intervention, eviction support, and advocacy;
- Motivate and support individuals towards their goals;
- Deliver health education on addictions, mental health, and symptom management.
Clinical Assessment, Support, and Goal Planning:
- Assess strengths, needs, and preferences; assist with wellness planning;
- Involve natural supports in goal setting;
- Solicit ongoing feedback on progress.
Communication and Decision Making:
- Maintain open communication with supports and team members;
- Make collaborative and independent decisions;
- Complete discharge summaries and documentation;
- Ensure confidentiality and effective communication.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO APPLY:
Successful candidates must have a PVSC within the last six months. To avoid delays, apply early for your PVSC.
Required qualifications:
- College diploma in a relevant social services discipline (proof required during hiring);
- Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle;
- Ability to attend work regularly.
Preferred qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or nursing;
- Registration with relevant Ontario colleges;
- Problem-solving, initiative, leadership, communication, and time management skills;
- Knowledge of mental health, addictions, community resources, and documentation methods;
- Experience supporting individuals with mental health and substance use issues;
- Trauma-informed care training and residential experience;
- Certifications in NVCI, CPR/First Aid, ASIST.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Standing and walking for extended periods;
- Ability to climb stairs, as homes are not fully accessible.
INTERNAL APPLICANTS: Use your @cmhatv.ca or @slwar.ca email to apply.
Application deadline: May 26, 2025
We value diversity and encourage applications from all community members. For accommodations during the recruitment process, contact Human.Resources@cmhatv.ca.
Questions for the application:
- Why are you interested in working at CMHA Thames Valley in this program?
- Do you have daily access to a vehicle and are willing to transport clients?
- Are you comfortable driving a non-specialized 10-passenger van?
- Do you have a post-secondary diploma or degree? Are you currently studying?
- How did you familiarize yourself with this role?
- Are you available for a Monday-Friday 9am-4:30pm schedule or a 4-day compressed week? Any other commitments?
- What experience do you have supporting individuals with mental health or addictions?
- Any questions for us?
- Do you have a PVSC completed within the last year?