Mental Health And Addictions Counselor

Mental Health and Addictions Counselor

Type of Position: Full time, contract

About the Position

Are you passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of individuals struggling with Mental Health and addiction challenges? Do you have a strong background in counseling and a deep understanding of Indigenous communities? If so, we invite you to join the Mushuau Innu First Nation (MIFN) team as a Mental Health and Addictions Counselor in Natuashish, NL. The MIFN Health Commission is committed to addressing the unique Mental Health and addiction needs of our people with culturally sensitive and holistic approaches.

As a Mental Health and Addictions Counselor, you will play a pivotal role in providing support, guidance, and counseling services to individuals and families facing Mental Health and addiction concerns within the Mushuau Innu community. Reporting to the Health Director, you will work closely with community members to develop personalized treatment plans, facilitate therapeutic sessions, and collaborate with other professionals to ensure comprehensive care.

Key Responsibilities

Program and Service Delivery Management

• Conduct assessments to identify Mental Health and addiction issues and develop tailored intervention plans.
• Provide individual and group counseling sessions using evidence-based therapeutic techniques.
• Collaborate with medical professionals, social workers, and community leaders to create a holistic support network.
• Offer culturally sensitive counseling, respecting the traditions and values of the Mushuau Innu people.
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of crisis management and impact of trauma on Mental Health.
• Engage in case management activities, making referrals to outside agencies, physicians and other resources to enhance service provision and address clients’ concerns.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, progress notes, and treatment plans.
• Monitor clients over time to access treatment progress.
• Actively participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay current with best practices.
• Prepare regular reports for Chief and Council outlining the impact and effectiveness of recreational programs.

Relationship Management

• Build and maintain positive relationships with community members, promoting active participation and engagement in recreational activities.
• Organize workshops and educational sessions to raise awareness about Mental Health and addiction issues.
• Actively participate in the positive functioning of the team (Team Meetings, Quality Improvement etc.).

Skills and Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Experience in providing Mental Health and addiction counseling within Indigenous communities is highly advantageous.
• Knowledge of community resources, treatment centers, social service networks and organizations.
• Strong understanding of the historical and cultural context of Indigenous communities.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and a compassionate nature.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Compassionate, non-judgmental, and dedicated to fostering a supportive environment.
• Willingness to learn and be a team player.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite.

Experience and Education Requirements:

• Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
• Registration or licensure as a Mental Health professional (e.g., Registered Psychologist, Registered Social Worker, Licensed Mental Health Counselor) is required.
• Minimum 2 years experience.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to successfully and periodically undergo an appropriate criminal records review and police record check is required.

Closing Date: Open until position is filled. Applications are assessed as they are received therefore early application is recommended. Applications will only be considered from those eligible to work in Canada. Proof of certifications will be required prior to employment.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Flexible Language Requirement:

• French not required

Work Location: In person