School-Based Addictions Counselor - Grades 7-12

Ottawa Catholic School Board; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 96,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

Ottawa Catholic School Board seeks an Addictions Counsellor to deliver assessment, counseling, and harm-reduction programs for students in grades 7–12. The role collaborates with school staff, families, and community partners to support well-being, mental health, and academic success.

The position requires a Master’s degree in Social Work or related field, membership in the governing college, and 5+ years in addictions/mental health with youth.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Social Work or counselling/addiction field.
• Member of the College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in addictions/mental health with youth and families.
• Strong understanding of substance use disorders and treatment options.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team with diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Administer screening questionnaires and assessments for students.
• Develop tailored treatment plans with students and families.
• Identify concurrent medical or psychiatric conditions and refer as needed.
• Provide individual and group counseling focused on harm reduction and recovery.
• Address crises and ensure safety and stabilization as needed.
• Monitor and adjust recovery plans over time.
• Deliver school-wide prevention programming on wellness and safe decision-making.
• Collaborate with families, school teams, and community partners.

Skills

Therapeutic rapport

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Communication skills

Cultural sensitivity

Community-based resources

Education

Master’s degree in Social Work or counselling/addiction field

Tools

Google Suite

Job description

Ottawa Catholic School Board seeks an Addictions Counsellor to deliver assessment, counseling, and harm-reduction programs for students in grades 7–12. The role collaborates with school staff, families, and community partners to support well-being, mental health, and academic success.

The position requires a Master’s degree in Social Work or related field, membership in the governing college, and 5+ years in addictions/mental health with youth.