Addictions Counsellor

ADDICTIONS COUNSELLORFull-Time, Homes Mobile TeamGood Shepherd is seeking to fill multiple positions with varying schedules for our growing needs. If you are looking for a career working with amazing people while helping you community thrive, then this opportunity is for you and we want to hear from you. We urge individuals that have retired, semi-retired, are returning to the workforce, those that are new to Canada and recent graduates to also apply. At Good Shepherd, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive equal and authentic workplace.Who We AreThe work of Good Shepherd is based on a fundamental belief in providing hope and restoring dignity to the most vulnerable members of our community. Our services include emergency food and clothing; daily hot meals; emergency shelters for men, youth, families, women and children; transitional housing and education for homeless and street-involved youth; hospice palliative care; community mental health programs; and supportive housing programs. This opportunity is with our Good Shepherd HOMES Mobile Team 5.Culture and ValuesWe see the good in people, not only the challenge. We hear the warmth in their voices. We recognize that we all have potential and promise. Our programs help to tear down the barriers that have impeded our community's most vulnerable citizens and help them to establish a path to a stable and healthy life.At Good Shepherd, we recognize the inherent value of people living with addiction and their right to quality care and services. Good Shepherd is committed to integrating Harm Reduction practices into our programs and to prioritizing the rights, dignity, and choices of those who use substances. By integrating a Harm Reduction framework at Good Shepherd, we can decrease barriers to service and better support some of our community's most marginalized members.Hospitality, as inspired by St. John of God is at the heart of Good Shepherd's mission. This means that we welcome all people with compassion, acceptance and a spirit of generosity; creating opportunities for transformation. Hospitality embodies our Values, Responsibility, Availability, Adaptability, Quality and Dignity.How You Will Make an ImpactThe successful candidate will extend our mission to residential and non-residential clients through the provision of respectful and appropriate housing support services. This may include case management, crisis intervention and supportive counseling. The incumbent must be able to work independently in a challenging and rewarding values-based environment.The Addictions Counsellor works as a member of a dynamic team of individuals to assist in enhancing the dignity and quality of life in the lives of adults. At all times the Addictions Counsellor uses all available resources to provide the best service possible.This role will be responsible for the for the provision of direct service to tenants many whom experience problematic substance use and who are tenants of the Good Shepherd HOMES program.The Addictions Counsellor will demonstrate a compassionate, non-judgmental and patient demeanor when working with clients to develop a level of trust so they feel secure in being supported to reach their highest level of skill development possible. This level of trust will be established and maintained by involving the client as much as possible in discussion around their goals and recovery process.In addition the Addictions Counsellor is responsible for participating in Good Shepherd's Health and Safety programs, procedures, procedures and work in compliance with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations to minimize risk to clients, staff and others as well as to the property of the Good Shepherd.What You'll Bring to Our TeamThis position requires a University Degree in Social Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy or equivalent, plus an Addictions Certificate from a recognized college, plus two years' work-related experience, particular to persons who experience problematic substance use and homelessnessKnowledge of the Social Service system and Community Resources so as to make the appropriate referralsProficient computer skills including MS Outlook, Word, CRMS, DATIS, or equivalent software programs. Training in OCAN is an assetExpertise providing counseling and case management to individuals who are experiencing or have experienced a complex history of substance use such as motivational interviewingExpertise in Addictions Assessment using the ADAT tool, GAINS and possibly the SS & A (Staged Screen and Assessment)A working knowledge of best practices with regard to substance use, harm reduction, trauma, and the therapeutic relationshipCPR/First Aid certificationFluency in a 2nd language is an assetCPR certification or willingness to be certified is requiredValid Drivers license requiredExcellent interpersonal and conflict resolution skillsCommitted to anti-racist/anti-oppressive practice and to the mission and values of Good ShepherdDemonstrated understanding of workplace health and safety practices and understanding of an employee's responsibility under current legislationHOURS: Rotating Days, Evenings and one in 5 weekendsWhat We OfferBe a part of a caring TEAM THAT SUPPORTS OUR LOCAL COMMUNITYSupport for continuing EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENTStaff recognition programs along with access to self-care supports and EMPLOYEE / FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP)POSITIVE and ENCOURAGING atmosphereMake a difference and provide HOPEExtended Health BenefitsGood Shepherd, a ministry of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, is an equal opportunity employer operating within an anti-racist and anti-oppression framework. We strive to establish workplaces that reflect and are enhanced by the rich diversity of the community we serve.Good Shepherd welcomes and encourages applications from all people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. If you need accommodations, please contact Human Resources at 905-528-5877.Good Shepherd has a mandatory verification of COVID-19 vaccination policy. More information on the full policy requirements and accommodation allowances will be provided to those selected for an interview.#INDSJ1