Addiction Counselor, Problem Gambling and Behavioural Change

Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health; Goderich; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a compassionate Addiction Counsellor to provide vital support for individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. This role involves conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and engaging in community outreach. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with clients and their support networks to foster recovery and well-being. With a focus on problem gambling and behavioural change, this position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community. Join a dedicated team committed to promoting mental health and enhancing lives through comprehensive care and support.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Social Work, Nursing, or related field.
• Experience in assessment and counselling for addiction and mental health.

Responsibilities

• Provide education, assessment, and treatment planning for clients with addiction issues.
• Collaborate with clients to develop and evaluate care plans.

Skills

Effective communication

Planning

Leadership

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation

Organization

Decision-making

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work

Social Service Worker Diploma

Nursing

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Manager, Clinical Programs, the Addiction Counsellor, Problem Gambling and Behavioural Change provides biopsychosocial support for individuals living with serious mental illness and/or addiction issues. This role involves assessment and treatment planning, community counselling, and referral services for clients experiencing issues related to substance use, problem gambling, or other behavioural addictions.

The services are delivered in various locations throughout Huron and Perth Counties, in-person, by phone, and virtually, based on client needs.

ORGANIZATIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

In addition to specific responsibilities, the incumbent supports the organization’s culture by:

• Demonstrating and exemplifying the organization’s mission and values daily
• Acting professionally with clients, families, community partners, the public, and colleagues
• Respecting privacy and confidentiality of personal health information
• Working responsibly within fiscal guidelines
• Promoting the organization’s reputation and minimizing risks
• Adhering to organizational policies and procedures
• Ensuring health and safety compliance
• Respecting diversity to reduce health disparities
• Participating in data collection, analysis, and reporting
• Maintaining professional competence and ongoing development
• Engaging in awareness activities, committees, and agency events

KEY POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Problem Gambling and Behavioural Change/Substance Use Counsellor

• Provide education, assessment, crisis management, treatment planning, referrals, advocacy, and community treatment to individuals with mental illness and/or addiction issues
• Collaborate with clients and their care circle to develop and evaluate care plans
• Conduct mental health and addiction assessments, crisis counseling, and referrals independently
• Identify resources during crises and formulate future interventions, respecting client decision-making
• Engage in community outreach and represent the agency professionally
• Maintain safety and professionalism in flexible work environments

Administrative

• Maintain accurate client records and report statistics as required
• Complete documentation punctually and comprehensively

General

• Participate in committees, meetings, and agency events
• Assist with onboarding and training of staff and interns
• Provide coverage for services as needed
• Contribute to meeting organizational objectives
• Maintain professional conduct and teamwork
• Perform additional duties as assigned

KEY QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field, Nursing, or a Social Service Worker Diploma, with focus on Problem Gambling or Addiction Studies. Current registration with a recognized college authorized to provide counselling under the Controlled Act of Psychotherapy.

EXPERIENCE: Prior experience in assessment, counselling, and understanding issues related to problem gambling, addictions, and mental health. Experience in community mental health resources and various therapy modalities is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Broad understanding of addiction and mental health treatments, community resources, and principles of stages of change and harm reduction. Demonstrated integrity, ethics, flexibility, and commitment.

Abilities: Effective communication, planning, leadership, interpersonal skills, negotiation, organization, and decision-making.

Coping: Maintain professionalism under stress, conflicts, and time demands.

Decisiveness: Make prompt, informed decisions and handle emergencies confidently.

Decision Making and Problem Solving: Use judgment and reason in emotional or complex situations.

Creativity: Develop innovative solutions and present engaging information.