Mental Health Specialist

The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory•St. John's, NL

1d•CA$63,024 - CA$94,557•Onsite

About The Position

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here. Mission Statement The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Requirements

Bachelors degree in Social Work, Masters Degree in Counselling or other related social sciences discipline from a recognized accredited institution; Current membership in a recognized professional association.
Minimum of three years counselling experience with a marginalized and diverse population; Proven working knowledge of a variety of therapeutic modalities; Thorough knowledge of evidence-based, trauma-informed practices in addictions treatment, principles of recovery, motivation interviewing and cultural competency; Demonstrated understanding of the needs, strengths, challenges, and opportunities for women and marginalized genders in this community, including substance use, mental health, homelessness, and gender-based violence; Experience with case management; Experience in group facilitation; Demonstrated ability to provide a healthy, safe, non-judgmental space for clients accessing programming and services, and to offer care in a respectful manner; Ability to deescalate situations with strong conflict resolution skills; Ability to recognize and work within professional and personal limitations and boundaries; An alternative level or combination of education and experience may be acceptable.
Knowledge of MS Office; First aid/CPR certification and experience administering Naloxone and/or Naloxone training required; ASIST and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention certification required; Bilingualism is an asset; Provision of a current clear vulnerable sector police background check required, clearance through The Salvation Army Internal Abuse Registry and willingness to sign The Salvation Army Code of Conduct Receipt and Acknowledgement Form required; Ability to work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures; High level of integrity, confidentiality, professional ethics and boundaries, with a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility required.

Nice To Haves

Bilingualism is an asset

Responsibilities

Completes biopsychosocial assessments of clients; Incorporates information obtained through the assessment process and comprehensive treatment/recovery plan to inform the counselling approach; Establishes helping relationships with clients, characterized by warmth, respect, genuineness, and empathy; Manages an assigned caseload; Provides crisis intervention, supportive counselling and advocacy; Contributes to accurate, timely, and confidential client documentation in accordance with policy and privacy legislation; Supports clients in the development of treatment goals and recovery plans; Refers clients to appropriate internal or external professionals for services outside program scope.
Develops and facilitates psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions in consultation with the Director of Programs, which may include but are not limited to the following: Wiseman Centre “Coffee and Conversation” wellness group, anger management, addictions, emotional health, relationship building, relapse prevention, trauma, self-care.
Updates data base with client information for statistical purposes; Provides mental health consultation, collaboration and capacity building to other program staff including Wiseman Centre program staff, Ches Penney Centre of Hope (COH) supportive housing and community programs staff; Participate with COH program staff and management in the supervision of the COH community meal program; Attend and contribute to case conferences, clinical supervision, team meetings, and staff development sessions as assigned; Maintain respectful, ethical, and collaborative relationships with clients, colleagues, and external partners; Uphold all organizational policies, procedures, and safety protocols in daily operations; Support internal and external reporting requirements, including progress reports and statistical submissions; Coordinate with outside service agencies and government departments, when applicable/required; provide program information to inquiring agencies, professionals, and clients under the direction of the Director of Programs.
Provides liaison with outside service agencies and government departments, when applicable; Provides program information to inquiring agencies, professionals, and clients; Represent the organization in a respectful and professional manner, reflecting the mission and values of The Salvation Army.
Participates in the development and implementation of program content and policies; Participates in the program evaluation.
Supports client requests for spiritual guidance by referring to the Director of Spiritual Care.
Other related duties as assigned.