Child & Youth Counsellor (TFT 1.0 FTE)

The Royal Mental Health Centre; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mental health facility in Ottawa is seeking a Child and Youth Counsellor to plan and implement programs for youth with psychiatric disorders. The role involves maintaining a therapeutic environment, collaborating with team members, and supervising students. Candidates must have a Child & Youth Care diploma and experience working with youth. A commitment to safety and fostering an inclusive workplace is also essential.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth in a therapeutic milieu.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement counselling programs for youth.
• Ensure a safe and therapeutic environment.
• Supervise Child and Youth Counsellor students.

Skills

Therapeutic relationship building

Crisis management

Group facilitation

DBT treatment modalities

Education

Child & Youth Care Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Child & Youth Care

Tools

Record-keeping software

Job description

Duties:

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

Qualifications:

• Child & Youth Care Advanced Diploma or Bachelor of Child & Youth Care.
• Experience working with youth in a therapeutic milieu.
• Ability to establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with youth and collaborate effectively with team members.
• Capability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience with DBT treatment modalities and high-risk youth is preferred.
• Willingness to work variable hours and participate in all Child and Youth Counsellor Programs as set by the Department/Program.
• Ability to develop, implement, and facilitate group sessions.
• Possess up-to-date CPR certification and Safety and Security in the Workplace training.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Computer literacy with the ability to learn relevant record-keeping software.
• Proficiency in English (oral comprehension, expression, reading, and writing) is mandatory; bilingual skills in French/English are an asset.