Mental Health Specialist

SHIPSHEY•Waterloo, ON

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the UA Transitional Program Supervisor, the Mental Health Specialist will provide support and counselling to clients in a transitional home who are experiencing the first signs and symptoms of psychosis. This role involves acting as a primary case manager for a caseload, consulting on mental health challenges, and being an expert in providing treatment while collaborating with colleagues on care plans. The position operates within a transitional housing program focused on serving residents at risk of homelessness.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in Social Services or equivalent
2+ years’ experience supporting individuals experiencing homelessness or equivalent
1+ years' experience with Mental Health assessment and/or treatment
Knowledge of MS Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook)
A vehicle, valid driver’s license, and adequate insurance coverage
Valid Certification in First Aid & CPR
Training in ASIST and CPI
Complete appropriate training to recognize overdose symptoms, safely administer naloxone via nasal spray or injection, and follow emergency protocols including contacting emergency services within the first eight weeks of employment

Nice To Haves

Experience with GAIN-SS, ADAT, or full SPDAT is considered an asset

Responsibilities

Conduct assessments for clients who are experiencing early signs of psychosis and provide counseling to those with complex challenges
Develop plans of care to meet objectives with an emphasis on life skills and potential mentorships
Develop and facilitate life skill programming, psycho-social and psycho-education to residents
Lead the development of educational programs on mental illness while consulting with team members and community mental health services
Assist residents with coping mechanisms to physical and emotional barriers
Assist clients in developing and maintaining community supports, daily living, and social skills necessary to obtain independency in the community
Various residential tasks for daily operation
Work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to carry out recovery and support
Understand and be able to integrate a philosophy of client-centered care into daily responsibilities
Demonstrate a strong commitment to quality care and service delivery based on SHIP’s Mission and Values
Ensure appropriate records are kept and make sure that statistical information is maintained as per agency standards
Adhere to agency Health & Safety programs and the Client Safety Framework
Perform additional duties as required/delegated by Management
Administer naloxone in response to suspected opioid overdoses, and complete appropriate training to recognize overdose symptoms, safely administer naloxone via nasal spray or injection, and follow emergency protocols including contacting emergency services