The Youth Counsellor, under the direction of the Youth Program Manager, is part of an interdisciplinary team responsible for the delivery of care and service to youth experiencing addiction issues.  The Youth Counsellor provides therapeutic, recreational and developmental programming in both individual, group as well as virtual settings; and models a healthy lifestyle and positive relationship building. The focus of this residential experience is physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness through individual plans of care. Traditional Indigenous culture and healing is a foundational basis for treatment. Participation in traditional aboriginal cultural programming, committees, quality improvement initiatives and continuing education is expected. Dedication to high standards of practice, adherence to organizational policies, accreditation requirements and statutory obligations is expected along with a commitment to maintaining privacy and confidentiality for the youth and the organization.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Welcome youth as they arrive at the Centre, initiate communication and assist with the intake processes
• Ensure that all outcomes of the youth assessments are clearly reflected and implemented in individual plan of care
• Conduct group therapy sessions; individual youth counseling and family counseling sessions
• Plan and implement workshops related to substance abuse and mental health including presentation and discussion (prevention; intervention; or training workshops)
• Promote a sense of community, safety, continuity and consistency throughout the youth’s treatment experience
• Demonstrate a genuine expression of organizational values while fulfilling all duties and functions
• Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to handle difficult situations in an objective consistent format, modelling positive behaviour for youth
• Ensure youth files and records are up to date, and meet the standards of the Children’s Residential License and the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation
• Participate in the preparation of aftercare and outreach treatment plans
• Complete housekeeping duties during shutdown and prior to intake sessions
• Participate in license reviews and accreditation processes
• Ensure compliance with all federal and provincially legislated standards of practice, accreditation requirements and organizational policies and procedures
• Participate in education program for employees and ensure skills and certifications are maintained.
• Adhere to Nimkee Policies and Procedures especially Health & Safety, Ethics and Confidentiality policies

Qualifications:

Education & Certification

• Post-Secondary degree or diploma in Counselling or related discipline (e.g. Child and Youth Worker or equivalent qualifications)

• Certified as an Addictions Counsellor by an accredited certification body
  Prevention and Management of Aggressive Behaviour Certification
  Applied Suicide Intervention Trainin

• Fire Extinguisher Handling Training
  Infection Control Training
  CPR and First Aid Certification, WHMIS Training
  Safe Food Handling Training

Experience

• Two years of experience working with youth, preferably in a residential setting
• Must demonstrate an understanding of solvent / substance abuse treatment
• Solid knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of service delivery to youth as well as program development, implementation and evaluation
• Experience with individual, group, family, play and art therapy
• Must have knowledge and understanding of First Nations culture and community life
• Must have demonstrated knowledge and awareness of cultural, and traditional teaching, universal to First Nations peoples
• Registered member of a First Nation as per section 16(1) of the Human Rights Act preferred
• Fluency in a First Nations language is an asset
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to handle conflict and other difficult situations in an objective consistent format
• Above average problem-solving skills
• Possess above average oral and written communication skills
• Must have skills in data collection, analysis and report writing
• Must be able to work independently and as a team player
• Proficiency in computer software skills including Microsoft Office Suite

Other

• A successful Vulnerable Sector Check
• Must be able to work flexible hours, shift work is required
• Must have a valid Ontario Driver’s License, a clear driving transcript and reliable transportation

All applications are confidential. Only those applicants applying with a detailed resume, cover letter and three written work references will be accepted. While your interest in Nimkee Nupigawagan is appreciated, only those applicants being given further consideration will be contacted.