School Counsellor Counsellor (K-7) – LNIB School

Lower Nicola Indian Band; Merritt; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a passionate School Counsellor to join their multi-disciplinary team. In this role, you will provide essential mental health support to K-7 students and their families, addressing various challenges through individual and group counselling. You will collaborate with community resources and engage in outreach efforts, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student well-being. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of young learners and their families, all within a supportive and dynamic work environment. If you're dedicated to fostering mental health and resilience in youth, this role is for you!

Qualifications

• Registered Clinical Counsellor or Social Worker in good standing required.
• Experience with K-7 students and knowledge of community resources is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Provide counselling and support to individuals and families.
• Document client encounters using the Electronic Management Record system.
• Coordinate educational workshops for students and families.

Skills

Counselling

Crisis Management

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Client-Centered Mental Health Practices

Harm Reduction Philosophy

Observation Skills

Facilitation Skills

Education

Registered Clinical Counsellor

Social Worker Certification

Counsellor Certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Electronic Management Record Systems

Job description

School Counsellor (K-7)

Reports To: the Director of Education

Wages: $40 per hour or more, depending on related experience and qualifications

Hours: 35 hours per week, Mon-Fri, with hours that may vary due to the nature of the position

Note: All applicants MUST provide proof of 2 Covid vaccinations

Job Summary

The School Counsellor works within a multi-disciplinary team to provide prevention, assessment, referral, clinical counselling, and follow-up services to students and family members affected by mental health and family issues. This includes confidential individual, family, or group counselling, support for families, and referrals for additional treatment.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Provide counselling and support to individuals and families.
2. Respond to inquiries concerning available programs and services.
3. Provide mental health counselling regarding causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies of various mental health diagnoses.
4. Offer counselling about the use and effects of alcohol and drugs.
5. Prepare needs and risk assessments.
6. Maintain a comprehensive understanding of crisis management and trauma impact.
7. Provide outreach counselling to students and families.
8. Make referrals to outside agencies when appropriate.
9. Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all student conversations and referrals.
10. Document all client encounters promptly using the Electronic Management Record system.
11. Coordinate and facilitate educational workshops for students and families.

Additional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Communication Coordinator to develop promotional materials for health initiatives.
• Participate in community and organizational committees.
• Assist individuals in identifying their treatment needs and liaise with treatment programs.
• Help clients meet all program requirements.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the school counselling program.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Job Requirements

Education

• Registered Clinical Counsellor specializing in youth and First Nations, Social Worker in good standing with the College of Social Workers, or a Counsellor certification with relevant registration.

Knowledge & Experience

• Experience working with K-7 students is beneficial.
• Practice from a harm reduction philosophy.
• Comprehensive knowledge of client-centered mental health practices and skills.
• Knowledge of community resources, treatment centers, and social service networks.
• Proficiency in computer software (email, internet), Microsoft Office, and Electronic Management Record systems.
• Advocacy and strong interpersonal skills, including working with diverse client groups and Nłeʔkepmx fluency is a plus.
• Effective listening, observation, and facilitation skills.
• Strong collaboration skills for working with case managers, clients, families, and healthcare professionals.
• Ability to handle demanding interpersonal situations with good judgment.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both oral and written.

Other Requirements

• Valid BC driver’s license and own vehicle.
• Criminal Records Check with vulnerable sector screening.

Working Conditions

Physical Demands

The Counsellor must prioritize situations, manage time effectively, and may need to work irregular hours, which could cause fatigue and stress. They may experience stress from interacting with students and families in crisis and must take precautions to protect their health.

Environmental Conditions

The office environment may be busy with scheduled and unscheduled students. The Counsellor must respond quickly to various situations, including crises, and may experience some isolation due to community disagreements or confidentiality constraints.

Apply on this site or to [e-mail]. The position remains open until filled by a qualified candidate.