MHSU Counsellor - Addiction Services - (214214)

Island Health; Victoria; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in healthcare is seeking a dedicated Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor to join their team. In this impactful role, you will provide essential assessment, treatment, and outreach services to clients facing mental health and substance use challenges. Your expertise will not only support individuals but also empower their families, fostering a collaborative environment focused on recovery and harm reduction. If you're passionate about making a difference in the community and have the skills to drive positive change, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 2 years of recent experience in mental health and addiction.
• Understanding of treatment methodologies and community dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Provide assessment and treatment for clients with mental health and substance use problems.
• Support caregivers and families in the recovery process.

Skills

Verbal and written communication

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving abilities

Client assessment skills

Team collaboration

Computer proficiency

Education

Baccalaureate Degree in health-related discipline

Post-basic education related to mental illness/addiction

Job description

Job Title: Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor - Addiction Services

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority, patient safety is a priority and a shared responsibility. Continuous improvement in quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Under the direction of the Clinical Coordinator or designate, and working within the organization's framework, standards, and a rehabilitation/recovery harm reduction focused model, the Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor provides assessment, intervention, treatment, outreach, detoxification, and/or recovery consultation and referral for clients experiencing mental health and substance use problems, along with support for their caregivers and families. Travel may be required, and transportation arrangements must meet operational requirements of VIHA.

Qualifications: Education, Training, and Experience

1. Baccalaureate Degree in a health-related discipline from an approved post-secondary institution.
2. Recognized post-basic education related to mental illness and/or alcohol and drug addiction.
3. Two (2) years recent related experience.
4. Understanding of mental health and substance misuse assessments, treatment methodologies, intervention strategies, the change process, and community dynamics.
5. Knowledge of applicable legislation such as Mental Health and Child Protection laws.
6. Knowledge of available programs and services, their interrelationships, and their role in community service delivery.
7. Or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
8. Valid BC Driver's License.

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated competence in treating addiction and mental illness within a rehabilitation/recovery, harm-reduction focused model aligned with VIHA standards.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Organizational, problem-solving, and teaching abilities.
• Judgment, keen observation, client assessment skills, tact, and empathy when working with clients.
• Ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
• Capability to promote positive change and foster independence.
• Ability to prioritize and organize workload effectively.
• Proficiency in operating a personal computer with Windows-based software.
• Ability to foster positive public relations.
• Competence in operating related equipment.

For more details, please refer to the full job description at https://jd.viha.ca/JD4487.pdf.