Mental Health Specialist

Who We Are For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here. Mission Statement The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Job Description: Accountabilities: Individual Counselling Completes biopsychosocial assessments of clients; Incorporates information obtained through the assessment process and comprehensive treatment/recovery plan to inform the counselling approach; Establishes helping relationships with clients, characterized by warmth, respect, genuineness, and empathy; Manages an assigned caseload; Provides crisis intervention, supportive counselling and advocacy; Contributes to accurate, timely, and confidential client documentation in accordance with policy and privacy legislation; Supports clients in the development of treatment goals and recovery plans; Refers clients to appropriate internal or external professionals for services outside program scope. Group Work Develops and facilitates psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions in consultation with the Director of Programs, which may include but are not limited to the following: Wiseman Centre “Coffee and Conversation” wellness group, anger management, addictions, emotional health, relationship building, relapse prevention, trauma, self-care. Program Support Updates data base with client information for statistical purposes; Provides mental health consultation, collaboration and capacity building to other program staff including Wiseman Centre program staff, Ches Penney Centre of Hope (COH) supportive housing and community programs staff; Participate with COH program staff and management in the supervision of the COH community meal program; Attend and contribute to case conferences, clinical supervision, team meetings, and staff development sessions as assigned; Maintain respectful, ethical, and collaborative relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners; Uphold all organizational policies, procedures, and safety protocols in daily operations; Support internal and external reporting requirements, including progress reports and statistical submissions; Coordinate with outside service agencies and government departments, when applicable/required; provide program information to inquiring agencies, professionals, and clients under the direction of the Director of Programs. Community Relations Provides liaison with outside service agencies and government departments, when applicable; Provides program information to inquiring agencies, professionals, and clients; Represent the organization in a respectful and professional manner, reflecting the mission and values of The Salvation Army. Program Evaluation Participates in the development and implementation of program content and policies; Participates in the program evaluation. Spiritual Care Supports client requests for spiritual guidance by referring to the Director of Spiritual Care. Other related duties as assigned. WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is primarily performed in the office environment, mostly within a ministry unit or facility; The position requires strong concentration, active listening, body language observation, multitasking, and moderate amount of keyboarding; May interact with individuals displaying challenging behaviours, including verbal abuse. Education, Qualifications and Certifications: Bachelors degree in Social Work, Masters Degree in Counselling or other related social sciences discipline from a recognized accredited institution; Current membership in a recognized professional association. Experience and Skilled Knowledge Requirements: Minimum of three years counselling experience with a marginalized and diverse population; Proven working knowledge of a variety of therapeutic modalities; Thorough knowledge of evidence-based, trauma-informed practices in addictions treatment, principles of recovery, motivation interviewing and cultural competency; Demonstrated understanding of the needs, strengths, challenges, and opportunities for women and marginalized genders in this community, including substance use, mental health, homelessness, and gender-based violence; Experience with case management; Experience in group facilitation; Demonstrated ability to provide a healthy, safe, non-judgmental space for clients accessing programming and services, and to offer care in a respectful manner; Ability to deescalate situations with strong conflict resolution skills; Ability to recognize and work within professional and personal limitations and boundaries; An alternative level or combination of education and experience may be acceptable. Skills and Capabilities: Proven ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and take initiative; Excellent organizational skills; Adaptability to change and frequent interruptions; Strong oral and written communication skills; Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and the ability to work effectively with staff, clients, families, volunteers, and visitors from diverse cultural backgrounds; Demonstrated attention to detail with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills; Demonstrated ability to convey patience, understanding, and professionalism in all interactions; Knowledge of MS Office; First aid/CPR certification and experience administering Naloxone and/or Naloxone training required; ASIST and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certification required; Bilingualism is an asset; Provision of a current clear vulnerable sector police background check required, clearance through The Salvation Army Internal Abuse Registry and willingness to sign The Salvation Army Code of Conduct Receipt and Acknowledgement Form required; Ability to work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures; High level of integrity, confidentiality, professional ethics and boundaries, with a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility required. Compensation: The target hiring range for this position is $63,024.00 to $78,769.60 with a maximum of $94,556.80. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email Recruitment.Accommodations@salvationarmy.ca if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you. Our employees are motivated by the fulfillment and meaning they experience as they serve people in need across Canada and Bermuda. Whether at the front-lines or in a support role, as part of our team you’ll work alongside a diverse and skilled group of purpose-driven professionals, empowered to provide exceptional service. We deeply value the relationships we build in the workplace, as well as the opportunities given to us such as the potential to experience flexibility at work, receive health and dental benefits, paid vacation and sick time, RRSP’s, as well as to expand our skills and advance our careers as together we build a culture of continuous learning and growth. If you're looking for a career that allows you to find meaning, make an impact, and one that challenges you to grow and become the best version of yourself, join our dynamic team. There is a place for everyone to belong at The Salvation Army.