Health Care Social Worker (Masters) - Wellness Court - Mental Health & Addictions

Nova Scotia Health and IWK Health•Truro, NS

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Nova Scotia Mental Health Court works with people with mental disorders who are in conflict with the law. The Mental Health Court also maintains a Court Monitored Drug Treatment Program which offers alternative criminal sentences for people charged with crimes related to their opioid addiction. Participation in the Mental Health Court is voluntary. It is for adults (persons 18 years of age and older) with mental health and substance use issues charged with a criminal offence within the jurisdiction of the Provincial Court of Nova Scotia. The Court's mission is to help participants connect to services, develop rehabilitation plans, and improve their well-being and living situations in order to decrease their likelihood of reoffending. The Mental Health Court Program has a dedicated judge and a team comprised of a crown attorney, a defense counsel (N.S. Legal Aid), a probation officer and mental health clinicians (registered nurse, social worker, and consultation to psychologist and psychiatrist). The clinical social worker works within an inter-professional team and utilizes discipline-specific skills, knowledge, related experience and abilities to provide screening assessment, case management, and follow-up support to individuals who are before the court. The incumbent must be able to work within deadlines set by the court and to work effectively with other members of the team to meet evidence-driven standards care provision. This position is the key liaison to the Court Monitored Drug Treatment Program for the MHCP.

Requirements

Masters of Social Work
Registered with the Nova Scotia College of Social Work (NSCSW)
Minimum of 2 years licensed related clinical experience required in working with people with mental health and addictions
Experience working with people with mental illness and or substance use disorder (alcohol, opioid, etc.) required
Experience with Mental Health Case Management and Crisis Intervention required
Comprehensive knowledge of person-centered mental health and addiction interventions, practice methods, and professional skills
Experience in the coordination and development of person-centered care plans
Experience working with diverse populations including vulnerable and marginalized populations
Sound knowledge of relevant legislation
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent time management and organizational skills required
Ability to function autonomously and within the inter-professional team
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Skills of collaboration, consultation, liaising and negotiation with clients/family, team members, justice service providers, community support services, inpatient services, and other partners

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in a Mental Health Court or equivalent setting preferred
Comprehensive understanding of community-based services and resources is an asset
Competencies in other languages an asset, French preferred

Responsibilities

Provide screening assessment, case management, and follow-up support to individuals who are before the court.
Work within deadlines set by the court.
Work effectively with other members of the team to meet evidence-driven standards of care provision.
Serve as the key liaison to the Court Monitored Drug Treatment Program for the MHCP.