Counsellor, Mamisarvik Healing Centre

Counsellor, Mamisarvik Healing Centre

3 Year Term with possibility of extension

It is the mission of Tungasuvvingat Inuit (TI) to broadly provide Inuit-specific programs that contribute to the health and wellbeing of Inuit and to encourage and support similar programs for Inuit across the country. With over 30 years of highly successful experience in crafting the design, development and delivery of a wide range of effective, client-centered services, TI continues to deliver quality programs and services that directly benefit our growing urban Inuit population.

The Mamisarvik Healing Centre Program delivers Inuit-specific treatment for trauma and substance use disorders. Professional, confidential, non-judgmental recovery and healing services are provided to Inuit 18 years of age or older. Mamisarvik also provides day and residential treatment programming.

TI is searching for an experienced person to provide trauma related and culturally sensitive Inuit specific counselling and supportive services to individuals and families. The incumbent will help clients understand and address substance use and related challenges, including mental health issues, problem gambling, family dynamics and lifestyle change. The incumbent works collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team of Elders, community members and clinical staff and service professionals within the organization. Developing strong relationships and providing client-specific supportive counselling services is essential to the success of Mamisarvik.

The Counsellor will support clients, fellow clinical team members and agencies by:

• Participating in clinical meetings with the Intake and Assessment Coordinator to determine client’s readiness and suitability for participation in the Mamisarvik program;

• Conducting bio-psychosocial assessments and collaborating with clients to design client-centered and strength-based change strategies;

• Utilizing Inuit traditional healing practices, evidence-based practices, and clinical experience in both group therapy and counselling sessions;
• Providing trauma informed care counselling utilizing a strength-based approach;

• Conducting individual, group and family counselling sessions in a professional and ethical manner, following all recognized standards, legislation and guidelines relevant to Inuit traditions and clinical practice;

• Developing substance use and trauma treatment programs centered around Inuit culture, principles and values that includes clinical best practices;
• Working with clients to develop an aftercare strategy;

• Participating on committees, teams or work groups at the local, provincial, regional and national levels;
• Coordinating referrals, admissions and discharges with related organizations; and
• Actively networking with other Inuit organizations within Ontario and other areas.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have a thorough understanding of substance use and addiction counselling services and knowledge of Inuit culture, values, Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit and traditional practices. Excellent interpersonal awareness, active listening, critical thinking, communication, analytical, and organizational skills are necessary. The ability to communicate in Inuktitut is an asset.

Maintaining confidentiality, ensuring client privacy and using computers (word processing, case management system, e-mail and internet) are requirements of the position. Other requirements include meeting attendance requirements, working occasional evenings and weekends and attending short overnight trips throughout the year with clients. The working environment involves providing support and responding to clients in distress and/or manage delicate interpersonal issues.

The knowledge, skills and abilities for this role would typically be acquired through a post-secondary degree in social work, psychology, counselling, addictions, or another related field and two years of related professional work experience. Training in Crisis Intervention and Prevention, Suicide Intervention and Prevention, CPR, Food Handling and Preparation is an asset.

An acceptable combination of related education and work experience may be considered.

Salary and Benefits

• TI offers a competitive total compensation package. Employees are provided an exceptional benefits plan which includes major medical and dental coverage for the employee and their dependents, and employee life insurance. TI also offers a Group RRSP benefit plan for eligible staff.

• TI provides paid sick, personal and family sickness leave days, and a 24/7 confidential Employee and Family Assistance Plan.
• Vacation (earn 3 weeks/year).

Deadline for applications is November 12^th, 2021.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter to [email protected].

The Mamisarvik Healing Centre is located at 25 Rosemount Avenue, Ottawa, ON which is conveniently located close to walking and biking trails and all major transportation access points. It is close to major amenities including gyms, malls, and restaurants. Parking is free on the premise.

Interested applicants are encouraged to visit our website at www.tiontario.ca to learn more about our programs and services.

Considering the nature of this position, the successful candidate will be required to obtain a vulnerable sector check and their employment will be conditional on results that are acceptable to TI.

Accommodations for applicants with disabilities is available upon request.

We thank all interested applicants in advance for their interest. Only individuals selected for interviews will be contacted.