Indigenous Outreach Specialist

CMHA Durham

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

An Indigenous Outreach Specialist in mental health and addictions provides culturally safe services, offering assessments, counseling, and treatment plans using Indigenous perspectives and knowledge systems. Key duties include facilitating traditional healing practices, connecting clients to Elders and community resources, developing prevention programs, and collaborating with Indigenous organizations to promote well-being and achieve good health. The Indigenous Specialist will also play a role in developing and supporting organizational education and cultural safety advisory practices. If you are someone who is passionate about identifying gaps with a solution-based approach, committed to developing pathways and partnerships in local indigenous communities, and wanting to make a difference in the lives of indigenous clients with mental health and/or addiction concerns, then we encourage you to apply now.

Requirements

Deep understanding and knowledge of Indigenous communities and cultural practices through lived experience is required
Post-secondary degree in Social Sciences, Indigenous Studies or Indigenous Relations, and/or equivalent combination of education, experience and lived/life experiences is required.
Excellent group facilitation and pedagogy skills to perform educational workshops and teachings
Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills; able to prioritize
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality
Cultural sensitivity and trauma-informed approach
Strong knowledge in various aspects of applicable legislation
Effective client relationship building skills; understanding the client’s needs and background
Ability to work independently and co-operatively as part of a team, management, board of directors, stakeholders and partners such as external vendors
Able to integrate CMHA Durham’s philosophy of being a “welcoming organization” into everyday practice.
General knowledge of the mental health environment in Ontario.
Ability to adapt to change and navigate through ambiguous situations

Nice To Haves

Certification, enrollment in or relevant experience in Mental Health and Addictions or related field is preferred
Strong computer skills including Microsoft 365 and electronic medical records (an asset)
Previous experience in working in non-profit and/or community based mental health experience are assets
Project management skills
Basic to Intermediate fluency in French considered an asset.

Responsibilities

Provide client-centered services that incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing, values, and beliefs.
Collaborating with Indigenous community services, friendship centers, and health organizations
Conduct assessments, develop individualized care plans, and provide crisis intervention, supportive counseling, and harm reduction services.
Participate in community events and cultural activities
Connect clients with Elders, traditional healing practices, peer support groups, and community-based wellness initiatives.
Working directly with Indigenous individuals, families, and communities
Collaborate with other community organizations who offer similar indigenous services for a seamless low-barrier approach to care
Assist clients in navigating and securing services afforded under Treaty Agreements and eligible funding opportunities
Assist the organization with creating and maintaining spaces that encourage clients to self-identify and request services designed to include culturally appropriate supports
Encourages self‑determination and client voice in care planning.
Addresses power imbalances by centering client decision‑
Responds to experiences of racism or discrimination with advocacy and accountability.
Develop and facilitate culturally relevant prevention and promotion programs to address mental health and addiction issues within the community.
Embrace a continuous learning approach to indigenous teachings as the program and position evolves to meet the needs of the community
Seek out opportunities to co-design programming with members of the indigenous community in collaboration with multiple service-providers
Engage fully as an ERG (Employee Resource Group) Lead for the organization representing indigenous communities.
Develop new and emerging partnerships with community providers in alignment with the organization’s mission, vision and values
Seek out collaborative intra-organizational opportunities to examine and inform current models of care from an indigenous perspective
Adhere to CMHA Durham client safety programs including program policies as well as infection control and prevention procedures.
In partnership with clients, family members, and fellow staff, maintain open lines of communication to assist the organization in identifying and achieving quality outcomes for client safety.
Report client safety incidents and suggested improvements to manager or delegate.
Demonstrates a commitment to Indigenous client safety by providing respectful, culturally responsive, and trauma‑informed services
Attend, participate in team meetings and all employee meetings
Participate in organizational quality improvement activities, e.g. accreditation projects, committee work, special events
Participate in quality improvement activities at the team/program level
Participate in external committees as required