Community Addictions Worker

Position Overview

The Community Addictions Worker, while working with an integrated multi-disciplinary team and in partnership with other service providers, is responsible for providing individual and group counselling and delivery of rehabilitation programs related to alcohol, drugs and gambling as well as offering community development activities and education.  This position requires a commitment to a client-centered philosophy and approach to the development, provision and support of Mental Health and Addictions programs and services.

The incumbent exercises the appropriate level of initiative and independent judgment in determining work priorities, work methods to be employed and action to be taken on unusual matters. The position functions in a manner that is consistent with the mission, vision and values; and the policies of Southern Health-Santé Sud.

Experience

• Experience working from a client-centered perspective and training.
• Experience in the utilization of Motivational Interviewing techniques is essential.
• Demonstrated experience and skills related to assessment, individual and group counselling; excellent organizational, interpersonal and oral communication and documentation skills; knowledge of the addictions and mental health fields and demonstrated ability to work within a complex systems of services are required.

Education (Degree/Diploma/Certificate)

• Graduate of an accredited post-secondary education in Health-Related Social Sciences (e.g. BSW, BScMH, BScPN, BN, RPN).
• Diploma in Applied Counseling with a minimum of two (2) years supervised counselling experience is considered an asset.
• Certificate in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills (ASIST) is considered an asset.
• Enrollment and/or completion of the Applied Counselling Certificate Program: Specialization in Addictions or its equivalent considered an asset.

Certification/Licensure/Registration

• Active license and registration to practice as required by professional association and provincial Legislation.

Qualifications and Skills

• Demonstrates knowledge and skill related to individual and group counselling services to adults whose primary concerns are addictions, mental health and co-occurring disorders.
• Demonstrated understanding of Substance Use, Abuse and Dependency.
• Demonstrated knowledge of crisis intervention techniques.
• Demonstrates skill and knowledge related to Motivational Interviewing techniques and coaching skills.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct bio-psychosocial/spiritual assessments and collaborate with clients to design client-centered, strength-based treatment plans that reflect evidence-based practices and clinical skill.
• Demonstrated experience in planning, preparing and presenting educational material is an asset.
• Ability to communicate respectfully and positively with clients and staff and presents self in an approachable and friendly manner.
• Demonstrates a genuine enthusiasm for client-centered care and demonstrates empathy and compassion.
• Exhibits the ability to respond to client requests and crises in a responsible, timely and flexible manner.
• Ability to match treatment services to client’s unique circumstances.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain current and accurate confidential records of client files.
• Demonstrates the ability to balance the needs of clients, other staff persons, those of the organization as well a strong commitment to self-care.
• Demonstrates enthusiasm for ongoing professional development activities, and engages in reciprocal learning experiences with colleagues and supervisors.
• Demonstrates active listening abilities, is coachable and responds positively to supervision.
• Demonstrates a strong commitment to personal and professional ethics, integrity and responsibility.
• Ability to manage one’s own emotions and strong feelings; maintain a calm and tactful composure under a broad range of challenging circumstances; think clearly and stay focused under pressure.
• Given the cultural diversity of our region, the ability to respect and promote a culturally diverse population is required.
• Proficiency of both official languages is essential for target and designated bilingual positions.
• Demonstrated ability to respect confidentiality including paper, electronic formats and other mediums.
• Good work and attendance record.
• Requires a valid Class 5 driver’s license, an all-purpose insured vehicle and liability insurance of at least $1,000,000.

Physical Requirements

• Demonstrated ability to meet the physical and mental demands of the job.
• No hazardous or significantly unpleasant conditions.
• May work occasionally evenings and weekends as necessary.
• Will be required to travel to other regional facilities as the position duties may require.