Addictions Counsellor

Highbridge Human Capital; Kamloops; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A community support organization in Kamloops seeks an Addictions Counsellor to provide substance use services tailored for Aboriginal individuals and families. Responsibilities include conducting assessments, delivering individual and group counselling, and maintaining client records. Candidates should hold a degree in Counseling or a related field and possess a deep understanding of addiction recovery principles. This position offers a competitive compensation of $30.00 – $32.00 per hour along with comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Group benefits including extended health

Employee Assistance Programme

Paid Time Off

Wellness Days Off

Qualifications

• Experience in addiction counselling or related fields.
• Application of various counselling modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy.
• Proven ability to coordinate with social workers and legal professionals.

Responsibilities

• Conduct intake assessments and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Facilitate individual and group counselling focused on addiction recovery.
• Maintain accurate client records and documentation.

Skills

Understanding of addiction recovery principles

Empathy and active listening

Crisis intervention skills

Communication with clients and professionals

Emotional resilience and self-care practices

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work

Certification or licence as an Addictions Counsellor

Job description

Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS) was established in 1972 and is a non‑profit organisation with a status free open‑door policy. KAFS is dedicated to empowering the Aboriginal and non‑Aboriginal communities of Kamloops and surrounding areas. KAFS provides culturally appropriate programmes and inclusive services that meet the needs of urban Indigenous people to become healthier, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Addictions Counsellor role is dedicated to providing substance use services tailored to the needs of Aboriginal individuals and families within the Kamloops community and surrounding areas. These services address addiction challenges and emphasise prevention, supporting adults, elders, and youth aged 15 and above, including status, non‑status, Métis, Inuit, or two‑spirited individuals living on and off reserves, including rural areas.

Under the supervision of the General Manager, the Addictions Counsellor provides culturally appropriate direct services to enhance the health and well‑being of Aboriginal people within the region and reduce health disparities. The role maintains an active caseload, offering direct client service to approximately 130 individuals annually, with a focus on supporting 55 clients concurrently.

A DAY IN THE LIFE – ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct entry and exit services including screening, intake, referral, and one‑month follow‑up assessments.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify client needs and develop individualized treatment plans, working collaboratively with clients to establish achievable goals and recovery strategies.
• Manage cases in collaboration with other service providers, ensuring coordination of care, access to resources, client advocacy, and ongoing support throughout the treatment process.
• Provide immediate support and intervention to clients experiencing acute emotional or physical distress, including risk assessment and mitigation to ensure safety and well‑being.
• Conduct individual and small group counselling sessions, marital and family counselling, and one‑to‑one counselling focused on alcohol and drug abuse prevention and intervention, utilising evidence‑based practices.
• Facilitate the Welbriety programme, including 12‑week closed group sessions held twice yearly.
• Deliver community education on addiction prevention and treatment through workshops, presentations, outreach activities, and information sessions.
• Determine client appropriateness and eligibility for the programme through thorough screening processes and completion of necessary alcohol and drug services forms.
• Work collaboratively with other professionals including social workers, probation officers, lawyers, and counsellors, and act as a liaison between clients and external services to ensure seamless coordination of care.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date client records, documenting assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, outcomes, and discharge summaries in accordance with organisational and regulatory standards.
• Generate reports and documentation, including monthly activity progress reports to the General Manager, two final activity reports to the funding agency, and required reporting through the Addictions Information Management System (AIMS).
• Facilitate referrals by directing clients or general inquiries to appropriate agencies, resource persons, or support systems, and engage in consultation with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and colleagues to support comprehensive care.
• Adhere to mandatory reporting requirements and conduct regular review and updating of client records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Perform related responsibilities that support programme delivery and client care.

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• Certification or licence as an Addictions Counsellor preferred.

Experience

• Previous experience in addiction counselling or a related field.
• Experience applying various counselling modalities such as cognitive‑behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma‑informed care, and other evidence‑based approaches.
• Proficiency in coordinating and integrating services with social workers, probation officers, legal professionals, and other providers.
• Experience completing reports to funding agencies is preferred, as well as maintaining accurate, organised client records.
• Demonstrated knowledge of local First Nations/Aboriginal cultures and communities, including an understanding of Aboriginal health issues and cultural and spiritual practices.

Skills

• Strong understanding of addiction recovery principles, evidence‑based treatment modalities, and relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines.
• Ability to empathise with clients, listen attentively, validate experiences without judgment, and communicate effectively with clients, families, and professionals.
• Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations, providing immediate support, intervention, and assessments that inform individualized treatment plans.
• Ability to identify barriers to recovery and work with clients to develop strategies that support their goals and long‑term well‑being.
• Understanding of the emotional demands of the role and a commitment to self‑care practices that support effective client service.

Pre‑Employment Requirements

• Valid Class 5 Driver’s Licence with the ability to travel to alternate sites around the Kamloops area.
• Vulnerable sector criminal record check.

Benefits and Compensation

• Compensation: $30.00 – $32.00 per hour.
• Group benefits including extended health, dental, and vision.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Paid Time Off.
• Wellness Days Off.

Preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry as per section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code (please self‑identity in your cover letter). We thank all applicants for their interest in this position; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.