Onsite Support Worker

Ottawa Salus•Ottawa, ON

22h•CA$32 - CA$36•Onsite

About The Position

The Onsite Support Worker is responsible for providing support to the clients/ tenants of the 24-hour program. The responsibilities include providing supportive counseling, group programming, crisis intervention and assisting clients with life skills acquisition, as required. Onsite Support Workers may cover a variety of shifts including days, evenings, overnights and weekends. The position reports to the Program Manager. This position may require working in an environment with exposure to challenging conditions, including unpleasant situations and odors. The Onsite Support Worker will provide support services to acute and complex clients, including those involved in active substance use.

Requirements

Bachelor degree in social work, psychology, social sciences or equivalent educational background in a related discipline
Three (3) years of experience working with clients in the areas of substance use health and mental health
Displays a professional approach to the work along with the values and attitudes that is in keeping with the helping professions (i.e., sensitivity, respect, understanding, sincerity, genuineness, perseverance, patience, compassion, positive outlook, non-judgmental attitude, acceptance, tolerance etc.)
client-centered, caring, supportive and reliable
sound judgment and common sense in decision making and problem solving; critical thinking, intelligence
demonstrates initiative, creativity, flexibility and independence
sense of humor
commitment to work and life-long learning
Knowledge of mental health, substance use health and treatment modalities
Knowledge of community resources for individuals living with mental health, substance use health and those experiencing chronic homelessness
Knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act and Tribunal processes
knowledge of group dynamics theory and practice
knowledge of concurrent disorders theory
knowledge of ethical standards relevant to social service work (confidentiality, boundaries etc)
knowledge of social problems associated with psychiatric disabilities (poverty, stigma, labeling, homelessness, oppression, addiction etc)
knowledge of mental health legislation
knowledge of community crises services
knowledge of sleep patterns, circadian rhythms, effects of food and substances, all pertaining to establishing normal sleep patterns
connecting skills; empathy, active listening
group intervention skills, including the ability to use mediation, conflict resolution, problem solving skills at a group level
ability to relate to clients suing a strengths based, client-centered approach
ability to work both in a team and independently
interpersonal skills; ability to work closely with supervisor, colleagues and a diversity of clients
conflict resolution skills
professional boundaries
life skills teaching
crisis intervention, suicide prevention and intervention skills
stress management skills
counseling skills
ability to manage time and resources effectively, punctuality
communication skills (oral, written)
record keeping skills, documentation
Computer Skills (word processing, e-mail, internet)

Nice To Haves

Two (2) years of experience working in a residential or supportive housing setting, an asset

Responsibilities

Provide Group support
Establish a supportive, respectful relationship with clients/ tenants
Provide group intervention, advocacy and mediation when necessary
Facilitate group programming
Resolve disputes that may arise between clients/ tenants
Support the implementation of recreational events and meaningful activities
Provide Program support
Provide supportive counseling and problem-solving to clients/ tenants when necessary
Support new clients/ tenants in their integration to the program
Foster a sense of community and connection within the Program
Provide crisis intervention support including overdose response
Support clients in establishing healthy sleep patterns
Support clients/ tenants in following the rules and expectations of the Program
Support clients/ tenants in acquiring basic life skills –personal hygiene, laundry etc.
Support clients/ tenants in general domains of life: basic needs, physical and mental health, housing, financial, social, spiritual, legal, educational and vocational
Work collaboratively with community partners and support the referral of clients/ tenants to external agencies as needed
Support on-call
Provide on-call support while on duty
Debrief with day staff and supervisor, as needed
Document as needed in the log book, incident reports, etc.
Ensure documentation is up to date in the client’s file
Review client files on a regular basis –be familiar with client’s overall goals and their current progress
Participate in staff meetings
Participate in professional development sessions
Adhere to program protocols and procedures including health and safety
Other related duties as determined by the Manager