Addictions & Recovery Worker - (201449)

Island Health; Victoria; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading health authority in Victoria seeks an Addictions and Recovery Worker to deliver non-medical withdrawal management care. The role involves supporting clients with substance misuse, facilitating educational groups, and ensuring safety and documentation. Ideal candidates will have relevant certification and experience working with mental health issues.

Qualifications

• Two years of recent related experience required.
• Knowledge of chemical dependency and community resources.

Responsibilities

• Provide non-medical withdrawal management care.
• Supportive counseling and supervision of clients.
• Facilitate group sessions and monitor clients.

Skills

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Ability to work with seriously addicted and mentally ill clients

Organizational and prioritization skills

Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills

Education

Post-secondary certification in addiction counseling

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. Continuous improvement in quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Coordinator or designate, the Addictions and Recovery Worker provides 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, and discharge of clients
6. Supportive counseling
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 needs, potentially involving the use of a personal vehicle.

Qualifications: Education, Training, and Experience

Post-secondary certification in addiction counseling or equivalent, plus two years of recent related experience. Knowledge of chemical dependency, community resources, and certification in First Aid and CPR are required. A valid BC Driver's License is necessary for certain positions. Certification in Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) must be obtained within the first three months of employment. Foodsafe Certification is required for Supportive Housing and Long-term Care positions.

Experience

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
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Organizational and prioritization skills
• Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills
• Proficiency with related equipment and software such as word processing and spreadsheets

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