Behavioural Support Specialist_FT-Perm
About The Position
As a Behavioural Support Specialist, dedicated to the North York General Hospital Reactivation Care Centre (NYGH RCC), you will be a member of an interdisciplinary team that provides direct care, education and support to seniors who are demonstrating responsive behaviours that may be associated with various types of dementia, mental health, substance use and/or other neurological disorders. The Behavioural Support Specialist will provide direct service to support the patient/client, other members of the care team, family and other care partners to mitigate escalating responsive behaviours. In doing so, you will collaborate with the other members of the care team on the development and delivery of effective Behavioural Support Plans comprised of behavioural management approaches, psychosocial supports and education to referred individuals and their caregivers. You will also liaise with community agencies, other practitioners and key partners to coordinate care for clients. You will provide transitional support to ensure a successful and sustainable transition from the RCC to the next care destination. In addition, you will provide education and support to the care team to ensure current knowledge, trends and ethical guidelines in behavioural support.
Requirements
- Undergraduate degree in Nursing, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, or a related health discipline, combined with an Advanced Diploma in Behavioural Science Technology.
- At least 3 years of experience supporting vulnerable seniors with responsive behaviours associated with dementia, mental health challenges, addictions, and other neurological conditions.
- Proven expertise in the development, implementation, and evaluation of behavioural intervention and behaviour management programs for vulnerable populations.
- Demonstrated experience providing training, coaching, and education to staff, clients, caregivers, and community partners on strategies to effectively address responsive behaviours.
- Strong knowledge of evidence-based behavioural support models and the ability to apply best practices in clinical and community settings.
- Training and/or experience with P.I.E.C.E.S., U-First!, Recovery-Oriented, and Psychosocial Rehabilitation approaches.
- Comprehensive understanding of dementia, delirium, mental health conditions, and their impact on seniors, families, and caregivers.
- Knowledge of community-based services, resources, and support networks available to older adults and caregivers.
- Strong commitment to the principles of Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) and person-centred care.
- Well-developed crisis intervention, problem-solving, relationship-building, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Valid Ontario driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle, with the ability to travel within the community as required.
- A satisfactory vulnerable sector check (VSC) is also required.
Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive clinical assessments and provide evidence-based behavioural treatment recommendations using a person-centred, behavioural approach.
- Lead the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of Behavioural Support Plans and behaviour intervention programs to enhance client outcomes and quality of life.
- Provide crisis intervention, risk assessment, urgent care planning, and referrals to appropriate community and crisis resources for high-risk individuals.
- Review, edit, and approve Behavioural Support Plans to ensure compliance with ethical standards and best practices in behaviour management.
- Collaborate with clients, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and community partners to coordinate care and advocate for client needs.
- Deliver training, consultation, and ongoing support to staff, families, and caregivers to promote effective behavioural strategies and reduce responsive behaviours.
- Foster respectful, therapeutic relationships with clients using Recovery-Oriented and Psychosocial Rehabilitation principles.
- Maintain current knowledge of behavioural support practices, emerging trends, and evidence-based interventions, sharing expertise across teams.
- Participate actively in multidisciplinary teams, client care conferences, staff meetings, and professional development initiatives.
- Ensure strict adherence to confidentiality, organizational policies, professional standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Work collaboratively under the direction of the Program Manager and/or designed perform additional duties as assigned.
Benefits
- medical
- dental
- vision
- life insurance
- long-term disability
- Defined Benefits Pension Plan
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program
- E-learning program available all year round
- Starting vacation time above minimum standard
- Additional paid personal and paid sick days
- Professional development budget available to help you nurture and shape your career
- Corporate Gym membership rate with GoodLife Fitness
- Access to Perkopolis, a comprehensive corporate discount program
- Access to unlimited DEI trainings through partnership Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Maternity-leave and Parental leave top up program
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
