PFWC Youth Mental Health Counsellor – Start Date: August 2025

Northwest Employment Works; Sioux Lookout; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Youth Mental Health Counsellor to join their team in Sioux Lookout. This role focuses on supporting students facing mental and emotional challenges, ensuring they receive the necessary care and guidance. You will work closely with various stakeholders to develop treatment plans and facilitate culturally appropriate activities. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of youth while working in a collaborative environment that values cultural understanding and community engagement. If you are passionate about youth mental health and eager to contribute to a supportive educational setting, this position is for you.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in Social Work/Mental Health work with youth.
• Thorough knowledge of First Nations culture and values is essential.

Responsibilities

• Support students with mental health concerns and implement care plans.
• Liaise with organizations and facilitate workshops on health and wellness.

Skills

Youth Support

Mental Health Evaluation

Crisis Intervention

Problem Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Cultural Awareness

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor of Social Work Degree

Tools

Treatment Plans

Safety Plans

Job description

YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLOR

Pelican Falls Wellness Centre, Sioux Lookout, Ontario

Pelican Falls Wellness Centre (PFWC) and Pelican Falls First Nations High School (PFFNHS) in Sioux Lookout require one full-time Youth Mental Health Counsellor to support students attending PFFNHS. The Youth Mental Health Counsellor will interact closely with students to support and identify mental and/or emotional concerns that students face and ensure that a proper support work alongside them through those challenges. This position will have a modified work schedule through the school calendar, salary will be prorated over the full year (26 pay periods).

Responsibilities:

1. Support students that are dealing with mental health concerns, trauma, substance misuse, etc.
2. Evaluate students’ mental, behavioural and emotional health
3. Implement a plan of care and/or safety plan as required
4. Develop or assist in developing treatment plans for students
5. Work closely with PFFNHS, SSSP and On-Call staff to support student needs and help identify students who are “at risk” or “in crisis”
6. Provide daily or weekly check-ins with students as required
7. Participate in team meetings as required
8. Liaise with other organizations, partners and/or professionals
9. Make referrals as required (School Nurse, Psychiatrist and other available supports)
10. Engage students in positive activities to help them improve their overall psychological well-being
11. Organize and facilitate culturally appropriate activities that are related to health and wellness
12. Organize and facilitate workshops on healthy relationships, communication, conflict resolution, etc.
13. Ensure all reports are kept current and confidentiality is always maintained

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor of Social Work Degree (4 year program)
2. Minimum of 4 years’ experience in Social Work/Mental Health work with youth
3. Ability to understand and support youth in high-risk situations
4. Thorough knowledge and understanding of First Nations culture and values
5. Excellent leadership, motivation, and problem-solving skills
6. Fluency in Oji-Cree, Cree or Ojibway is an asset
7. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently
8. Able to work effectively and collaboratively with others
9. Strong communication skills
10. Valid Class “G” Driver’s License

Salary: Salary Level to commensurate with education and experience

NNEC thanks all applicants in advance; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. NNEC requires a Criminal Record Check and/or a Vulnerable Sector Check for all positions. These positions are open until filled.

Please submit your cover letter, resume and three references (with written permission for NNEC to contact them) to Human Resources, NNEC Head Office, fax [phone] or by email to [e-mail]