Addictions Counsellor (Early Psychosis)

Adapt; Burlington; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Diverse team environment

Work-life balance

Competitive salary with progression

Career development and training

Cross-professional collaboration

Job summary

ADAPT in Halton Region is seeking an Early Psychosis Counsellor to deliver clinical services, primarily through outreach, for the Phoenix Program. You will assess clients and develop treatment plans while maintaining MOHLTC guidelines.

You will collaborate with hospital and community teams, maintain records, and contribute to program evaluation. The role offers a hybrid work arrangement and growth opportunities within a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Social Service Work or related field; university degree preferred.
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Responsibilities

• Deliver clinical intake and assessment, primarily on an outreach basis, for clients involved with the Phoenix Program.

Skills

Counselling

Active listening

Interpersonal skills

Cultural responsiveness

Time management

Communication

Outreach

Education

Diploma in Social Service Work or related field; University degree preferred

RSW designation with OCSWSSW or RP designation with CRPO is an asset

CPR and First Aid certification

ASIST training

CPI training

Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle

Tools

Computer literacy / electronic databases

Job description

JOIN ADAPT'S IMPACTFUL TEAM

Become part of the ADAPT team-where your work truly matters. We champion career development, foster a positive and supportive culture, and celebrate a diverse and inclusive environment.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Position: Early Psychosis Counsellor

Type of role: full time, fixed-term (ASAP-end of October 2027)

Location: Halton Region

Posting is for an existing vacancy.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

• A fun, cooperative, and diverse team environment
• Exceptional work–life balance with growth opportunities
• Top of the line benefits and competive salaries with clear progression path
• Cross‑professional collaboration to enhance your skills and impact
• Access to ongoing training and career development

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Delivers clinical services, primarily on an outreach basis, to clients involved with the Phoenix Early Intervention Service for Psychosis, by providing clinical assessments and developing and implementing clinically sound treatment plans. Maintains client records according to guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC). Provides statistical and anecdotal input for the evaluation of ADAPT programs as required. Represents ADAPT with community groups, as requested.

• provides clinical intake services, primarily on an outreach basis, for clients involved with the Phoenix Program for entry into ADAPT programs
• assesses client needs through the use of bio/psycho/social assessment and structured interviews
• in consultation with the client and other members of his/her clinical team, develops an individual treatment plan for the client
• provides individual and/or group counselling to address the clients’ needs
• conducts group sessions as required
• refers clients to other appropriate support services and agencies according to the clients’ needs
• conducts appropriate case management services with respect to the client’s treatment plan
• provides consultative services within ADAPT regarding matters related to the Phoenix Program (i.e. eligibility criteria, referral process, psychosis-related resource sharing)
• provides consultative services to community agencies, professionals or individuals as required
• participates in regular case conferencing meetings with the three Phoenix program clinical teams operating out of Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, Halton Healthcare Services at the North Halton Mental Health Clinic (Milton, Acton, Georgetown) and Halton Healthcare Services at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital
• maintains accurate and complete clinical records and service tracking data according to guidelines established by ADAPT, the MOHLTC and/or the funding agency
• assists in the promotion of ADAPT and the Phoenix Program to other agencies and the general public
• participates in meetings as required, including Concurrent Disorders Team and Phoenix Program meetings
• provides input into the operational and strategic planning related to ADAPT programs as required, specifically in relation to ADAPT’s involvement with the Phoenix Program partnership
• assists in maintaining a high level of open and effective communications within the organization and among program partners
• participates in community education and public awareness initiatives as required
• participates in Early Psychosis Intervention Ontario Network (EPION) activities as required

WHAT WE ASK FOR

Education

Diploma in Social Service Work or a related field, with a preference for a University Degree in Social Work/Psychology/ other Health-related field plus Addiction/ Concurrent Disorders studies certification

Licenses, certification, credentials

• Registered Social Worker (RSW) designation with the Ontario College of Social Workers & Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) or Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario is an asset.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification is required.
• ASIST training or equivalent is required.
• CPI training or equivalent is required.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle;

Experience

• 3-5 years counselling experience in addictions/ concurrent disorders or a related field
• Experience in:

• Individual, family, and group therapy
• Community development and networking
• Record keeping and file management
• Basic life skills counselling, supportive counselling, crisis intervention, advocacy, and group work;
• Managing clients with complex needs in varying stages of change;

• Demonstrated experience in developing and or facilitating groups for those with drug/alcohol problems.
• Experience working with people experiencing psychosis
• Experience in motivational interviewing and trauma-informed counselling.

YOUR SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Broad knowledge of addictions treatments and explanatory theories, mental illness, and community resources
• A strong knowledge of concurrent disorders and experience working with this population is essential.
• A basic understanding of the symptoms, prognosis, and treatments of major mental disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bi-polar disorder would be an asset.
• A strong knowledge of cannabis, its impact on the developing brain, the link between cannabis and psychosis, and the risk/benefit profile when used in combination with mental disorders would be a significant asset.
• Managing clients with complex needs in varying stages of change
• Strong communication and active listening is required
• Ability to effectively present complex clinical information in writing and verbally
• Ability to read and understand documentation such as operating instructions, procedures manuals and complex clinical reports
• Ability to: function independently, maintain effective working relationships with others, work effectively under pressure or deadlines and work outside regular office hours as required, use good judgement to make sound decisions
• Interpersonal skills that require an attention to detail and rapport building with clients
• Experienced sense and awareness of ethical boundaries and clinical reporting obligations
• Ability to successfully deliver culturally responsive services
• Cultural knowledge of key populations in Halton Region that will be served to address disparities in specific services
• Ability to communicate and effectively interact with people across cultures, ranges of ability, genders, ethnicities, and races
• Knowledge of the history of discrimination in America, particularly as it relates to race and racism, and how this history has led to disparities experienced by marginalized communities such as BIPOC, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ communities, and others
• Active time management and scheduling
• Proficiency with computer programs and electronic database(s)
• Knowledge of French language an asset

WORK CONDITIONS

• Work location may vary according to program and client needs including:
  • any one of ADAPT’s offices across Halton Region
  • hospital-based clinics and/ or partnering community clinics
  • community settings or clients’/ family’s residence through community outreach
• Able to fulfill all duties and work hours from a remote/home location, whenever required (hybrid work is contingent on ADAPT and/ or program needs and is not guaranteed)
• Able to work 37.5 hrs/week; flexibility is required when meeting clients’ needs in evenings and on occasional weekends
• Attending and conducting presentations
• Manual dexterity required to use desktop computer and peripherals
• Various physical actions of mobility are required (minimal lifting, sitting for periods of time, moderate wrist motions)

WHY ADAPT?

ADAPT (Halton Alcohol Drug and Gambling Assessment Prevention and Treatment Services) is one of Ontario’s largest and most diversified addiction and mental health agencies, offering comprehensive services to help those impacted by alcohol, drugs or gambling.

We believe your best work comes when you feel empowered, included, and supported, because thriving employees create thriving communities. We offer competitive compensation, generous paid time off, a flexible hybrid work environment, and comprehensive tools to support your professional growth.

Accessibility and Accommodation

ADAPT is committed to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA): we will provide accommodations throughout the hiring process. When invited to an interview, you can request accommodations, and we’ll tailor the process to suit your needs.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

ADAPT values diversity and inclusion. We encourage candidates from First Nations, Métis, Inuit, racialized, LGBTQ2S+, women, people with disabilities, and those with lived experience to apply.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in hiring

ADAPT is not using AI in hiring for this role.

We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for interviews will be contacted. Personal information is managed under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.