Mental Health Court Support Counsellor

YMCA; Hanover; On-site; Full time

Job summary

The YMCA is seeking a Mental Health Court Support Counsellor for a temporary full-time position in Hanover. The role involves supporting individuals with mental health issues within the criminal justice system, conducting assessments, and providing program guidance. The ideal candidate will have relevant educational credentials and clinical experience. A supportive work environment and competitive pay are offered.

Benefits

In house training for First Aid/CPR

Mental Health First Aid training

Collaborative work environment

Camaraderie events

Qualifications

• Registration with one of six recognized colleges is required.
• Clinical experience working with individuals with mental health disorders.
• Knowledge of adult mental health services and the justice system.

Responsibilities

• Assist individuals with mental health issues in the Criminal Justice System.
• Gather information for psychosocial assessments and develop service plans.
• Provide case management and counseling to approved individuals.

Skills

Communication

Crisis Intervention

Assessment Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Advocacy

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant program

Job description

Find meaningful employment, jobs, careers, apprenticeships and volunteer opportunities from local employers in Grey Bruce through the YMCA Job Board. Employers can create an account and post jobs for FREE!

By Canadian Mental Health Association Grey Bruce

At the CMHA Grey Bruce we cultivate hope, resilience and community for those who live with, and are impacted by, mental illness and/ or/ addiction. We are driven by our values of compassion, dignity, inclusivity, integrity and choice. We will create an inclusive community inspiring hope, choice and well-being for all.

We are currently recruiting for:

MENTAL HEALTH COURT SUPPORT COUNSELLOR

TEMPORARY FULL TIME

1 position available (Contract to January 2026)

JOB ID: 2025-05R

LOCATION: Hanover

JOB TYPE: Non-Union

Reporting to the Coordinator Justice Program, the Mental Health Court Support Counsellor is responsible for assisting individuals with mental health or addictions concerns who are involved with the Criminal Justice System.

• Participate in the planning, implementation and evaluation of programs and services including making recommendations on changes to current program activities
• Participate effectively in staff and other designated meetings
• Receive and process referrals from the accused individual, as well as from families, friends, police, defense counsel, crown attorney, community agencies working with the individual
• Gather information to complete a psychosocial assessment, including medical and relevant criminal background and the current and existing support services network
• Meet with the individual at the court to assess their suitability for the Diversion Program including assessment of their mental health status, their current living situation, and other psychosocial issues
• Provide support and information to the accused and their family
• Determine that the individual is not violent and will not present issues of safety to the general public
• Develop an individualized service plan when the individual consents to participation in the Diversion Program
• Present recommendations for a Diversion plan to the Provincial Crown Attorney, and occasionally the Federal Crown, for approval
• Provide case management and counseling to individuals that have been approved for a Mental Health Diversion and report to the court as required
• Prepare all court and agency reporting as required
• Collect required data for input and reporting to the Ministry of Health
• Provide consultation to the Provincial and Federal Crown Attorney regarding individuals presenting with mental disorders who are either too high a risk for violence or the charges are too serious to support a Diversion plan

Hours of work are 37.50 per week. The normal workday is 8 hours, including a 30-minute unpaid lunch break. Fast-paced/multiple need work environment. Work with acutely ill clients.

What we offer you

• A competitive hourly wage ranging between $35.00 and $38.63 (5 step grid)
• In house training for First Aid/CPR, Mental Health First Aid, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Applied Suicide Intervention Training
• Celebratory and camaraderie events
• A supportive and collaborative work environment

What you will bring

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant program
• Registration with one of six recognized colleges is required. (College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, College of Nurses of Ontario, College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario, College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, College of Psychologists of Ontario)
• Clinical experience working with individuals with mental health disorders
• Competent screening and assessment skills
• Knowledge of Psycho-social Rehabilitation
• Knowledge of pharmaceuticals used in the treatment of mental disorders
• Ability to advocate and coordinate service access
• Current knowledge of adult mental health services, community services and the justice system in Grey Bruce
• Good understanding of relevant provincial and local legislation and government policies, procedures and practices pertaining to services provided by CMHA
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and networking skills
• Effective decision making and crisis intervention skills
• Ability to work independently and as a member of an inter-disciplinary team
• An understanding and commitment to the values and vision of CMHA
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A valid Canadian driver’s license and the use of a reliable personal vehicle
• Minimum $2,000,000 third party liability vehicle insurance
• A satisfactory police record check including vulnerable sector screening

CMHA Grey Bruce is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. We encourage applications from all individuals and offer accommodations upon request during the recruitment and selection process. All applications are kept confidential and used solely for hiring purposes. We do not use artificial intelligence in our hiring practices. While we appreciate the interest of all applicants, only those selected to interview are contacted. We strive to provide updates on candidacy status to employees and make an effort to respond to external inquiries as resources allow.

At the CMHA Grey Bruce we cultivate hope, resilience and community for those who live with, and are impacted by, mental illness and/ or/ addiction. We are driven by our values of compassion, dignity, inclusivity, integrity and choice. We will create an inclusive community inspiring hope, choice and well-being for all.

Let us help you

Need help with your resume, improving your interview skills or finding the right career? Our Employment Advisors are here to support you in your job search. From exploring employment and training opportunities and preparing to re-enter the workforce, to helping you write effective resumes and prepare for interviews.

Our YMCA is a community leader for improving the health and vitality of Owen Sound, Grey and Bruce counties.

Charitable registration number 11907 4995 RR0001