Child and Youth Practitioner (Counsellor 2(A)-(B))
About The Position
At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), we are a large and diverse department providing a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services(ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program(DSP). Through our services, we advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure. We work collaboratively across the province with a strong dedicated network of supports and staff, to achieve desired and shared outcomes for all. We consider this to be the best job in the world, and are seeking compassionate, creative individuals to join our team. Child and youth care is an evolving profession, and when you join our team, you will be embarking on a rewarding career. You will have the opportunity to establish positive connections with youth and families, during challenging times in their lives. If you have a passion for people and are looking for your next opportunity to showcase your various active, artistical, creative and musical talents, consider a career as a Child & Youth Care Practitioner with Hope Landing, in Bridgewater. We are part of a beautiful community, where your education and skills will be leveraged to provide specialized care that will have long lasting results for young people. This Roster will be used to fill multiple relief opportunities over the next several months.
Requirements
- Completed a Child & Youth Care Worker diploma from a provincially approved post-secondary institution; or an equivalent combintation of training and experience.
- Awareness of a trauma informed approach.
- Knowledge of physical, psychological, and emotional needs of youth in care and the family unit.
- Knowledge of healthy child development, providing opportunity for youth to expand on life skills through support and guidance.
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
- Effective communication skills (oral & written) and the ability to facilitate groups.
- Knowledge of various software packages, such as Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
- A valid driver's license and access to a reliable vehicle are required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with case management systems
- Previous experience with child welfare, early childhood development, crisis services, shelters, and supporting persons with disabilities and substance dependency.
Responsibilities
- Provide care and programming for children and youth in the care of the Minister or Mi’kmaw Family & Children’s Services, with moderate to severe emotional and trauma- based responses.
- Provide support and engage with children and youth, leading and co-leading pre-approved psycho-educational youth programming (social and emotional learning).
- Appropriate role modeling and advocating on behalf of children, youth and families for any necessary supports and services.
- Creating opportunities for recreational and leisure activities to provide children and youth the opportunity to enhance relationships and make connections in the community.
- Attending and actively participating in community outings, appointments, and meetings.
- Being part of a team that provides a caring and safe environment for children and youth who may require assistance with self regulation, conflict resolution and developing skills needed for healthy relationships.
- Collaborating with external professionals including social workers, health care professionals, policing services, probation, and public schools when necessary.
- Accurate reporting, case management notes, file maintenance, and crisis intervention.
- Assisting in developing programs and activities, incorporating personal talents and love for unique social and emotional experiences.
Benefits
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan
- Health
- Dental
- Life Insurance
- General illness
- Short and Long Term Disability
- Vacation
- Employee and Family Assistance Programs
- Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
- Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
- Countless Career Paths.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
