Child & Youth Counsellor (RFT 1.0 FTE)

The Royal Mental Health Centre; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mental health center in Ottawa is seeking a Child and Youth Counsellor to support youth with psychiatric disorders. The role involves program planning, collaboration with treatment teams, and ensuring a safe therapeutic environment. Ideal candidates will have relevant diplomas and experience working with youth in therapeutic settings. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact on young lives while working in a supportive team.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth in a therapeutic milieu.
• Up-to-date CPR and Safety and Security in the Workplace certification.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement Child and Youth Counsellor Programs.
• Collaborate with treatment team members for comprehensive assessment.
• Lead and participate in groups with patients and families.

Skills

Therapeutic Relationships

Communication

Team Collaboration

Education

Child & Youth Care Advanced Diploma

Bachelor of Child & Youth Care

Job description

Duties:

1. Plan and implement Child and Youth Counsellor Programs for youth with early onset major psychiatric disorders.
2. Maintain accurate records and statistics for regular reporting.
3. Collaborate with other Child and Youth Counsellors and treatment team members to provide comprehensive assessment and treatment services.
4. Ensure a safe and therapeutic environment within the unit, including crisis management.
5. Supervise Child and Youth Counsellor Students as needed.
6. Provide coverage across all units (inpatients, partial, and day treatment).
7. Manage crisis situations following policies and guidelines for intake procedures.
8. Lead and participate in groups with patients and families.
9. Perform other related duties as assigned.
10. Work in compliance with staff and patient safety policies of The Royal.
11. Maintain a work environment aligned with The Royal’s Anti-Racism, Harassment, and Discrimination-Free Workplace Policy.

Qualifications:

1. Child & Youth Care Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Child & Youth Care.
2. Experience working with youth in a therapeutic milieu.
3. Ability to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with youth and collaborate with team members.
4. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
5. Experience with DBT treatment modalities and high-risk youth preferred.
6. Willingness to work variable hours and participate in all Child and Youth Counsellor Programs as set by the Department/Program.
7. Ability to develop, implement, and facilitate groups.
8. Up-to-date CPR and Safety and Security in the Workplace certification.
9. Effective written and verbal communication skills.
10. Proficiency in computer skills relevant to patient record keeping.
11. English language proficiency at level A- in oral comprehension, expression, reading, and writing; bilingual (French/English) skills are an asset.