Addictions & Recovery Worker - (214226)

Island Health; Victoria; On-site; CAD 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare is seeking an Addictions and Recovery Worker to provide essential non-medical withdrawal management care. This role involves delivering general care services, facilitating educational groups, and supporting individuals struggling with substance misuse. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in addiction counselling, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with clients and their families. Join a dedicated team committed to improving the lives of those affected by addiction, while ensuring safety and quality care in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary certification in addiction counselling or equivalent required.
• Two years' recent related experience in addiction counselling preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide non-medical withdrawal management care and supportive counselling.
• Observe and monitor clients, role model healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Skills

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work with seriously addicted and mentally ill clients

Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills

Organization and prioritization of workload

Facilitation of supportive and educational groups

Education

Post-secondary certification in addiction counselling

First Aid certification

CPR certification

NVCI certification

Tools

Word processing software

Spreadsheet software

Job description

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of Island Health (Vancouver Island Health Authority), patient and staff safety is a priority and a shared responsibility. The requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reporting to the Coordinator or designate, the Addictions and Recovery Worker provides all service aspects of non-medical withdrawal management care, including:

1. General care services
2. Harm reduction education
3. Group facilitation
4. Individual screening for risk
5. Registration, admission/discharge of clients
6. Supportive counselling
7. Daily living activities
8. Supervision of clients dealing with substance misuse

Responsibilities also include observing and monitoring clients, role modeling healthy lifestyle behaviors, and completing documentation. Travel may be required, and transportation arrangements must meet operational requirements, potentially involving the use of a personal vehicle.

Qualifications: Education, Training, and Experience

Post-secondary certification in addiction counselling or equivalent, plus two years' recent related experience. Knowledge of chemical dependency, community resources, and relevant certifications such as First Aid, CPR, and NVCI are required. A valid BC Driver's License is required for certain positions. Foodsafe Certification is required for Supportive Housing and Long-term Care positions. Experience working with adults and youth with mental health and substance use issues is preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with seriously addicted and mentally ill clients and their families
• Ability to observe and recognize behavioral and health status changes
• Facilitation of supportive and educational groups
• Role modeling healthy lifestyle choices
• Setting and maintaining boundaries
• Independent and collaborative work skills
• Organization and prioritization of workload
• Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills
• Proficiency with related equipment and software such as word processing and spreadsheets

For more details, see the full job description: https://jd.viha.ca/JD1741.pdf