Job Description
The Acute Care Program is seeking a full-time, permanent Counsellor Therapist 2 to work in COMPASS (Concurrent Outpatient Medical Psychosocial Addiction Support Service). Reporting to the Manager, the incumbent will provide direct clinical care and psychotherapy for adults who are experiencing addiction or concurrent disorder through a team-based, interprofessional approach to care. Accountabilities include: offering outpatient psychosocial treatment and psychotherapy predominantly in the form of structured/manualized group treatments along a phased approach to care spanning early engagement to skills-based interventions through to discharge. Provision of limited individual treatment is also a key part of the role as needed. Clinical service provision includes in-person treatment as well as virtual care for both individuals and groups. The role also involves conducting assessments and making referrals for new clients, engagement with family members/community supports, and providing some case management support for clients. The incumbent will be able to work with clients from diverse populations, and demonstrate a harm reduction, recovery-oriented and trauma-informed approach to care. The incumbent will also participate in: continuous quality improvement initiatives; the research and educational activities of the program; program development; service provider relationship-building; and capacity-building training activities. Other related duties may be assigned as required. Some evening hours may be required. The incumbent will support and contribute to a healthy workplace that embraces diversity, encourages teamwork and complies with all applicable regulatory and legislative requirements. This position is located at 100 Stokes St.
Job Requirements
The successful candidate will possess a Master’s degree in psychology, social work or occupational therapy combined with a preferred minimum of 3 years of post-graduate, direct clinical (psychotherapy) experience in the provision of mental health and/or addictions treatment. As a registered member in good standing with a regulated health care discipline authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy, the candidate must show proof of registration with the respective College (e.g. College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO), College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO).
The candidate must have competence to perform psychotherapy and experience utilizing CBT and DBT. Competence to perform CPT or other trauma-focused interventions is considered an asset. Other modalities may be required depending on the needs of the program. Preference will be given to those who hold certificates/ certification. Certification in Motivational Interviewing is an asset. The candidate must be in ‘independent practice’ as it pertains to performing psychotherapy.
Supervision of psychotherapy to students within the respective discipline is considered an asset for candidates who are qualified (or working toward qualifications) as a clinical supervisor. Candidates qualified to provide psychotherapy supervision of clinicians, or to the contribution to teaching of other health professionals within or across disciplines where permitted, is also an asset.
The candidate possesses demonstrated knowledge and experience in concurrent disorders, mood and anxiety, trauma and evidence-based treatments. The candidate also possesses experience with substance use interventions such as Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change, Substance Use and Mental Health concurrent disorder psycho-education, and Overdose Identification and Prevention are required; training in same are assets. The candidate will also have experience utilizing cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and approaches to treat trauma and addiction, and preference will be given to those who have certificates in these modalities. The candidate will also have experience and competence in the provision of virtual care for both individuals and groups.
Candidates will have demonstrated ability to work with clients of diverse backgrounds with the ability to provide culturally-competent service to clients of diverse ethno-racial and cultural backgrounds.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required to work within the interprofessional teams and to engage with clients, family members, and community care providers. Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced interprofessional clinical environment are essential. The incumbent will also be able to work effectively independently and within a team, and have strong writing and presentation skills. The incumbent will have a demonstrated ability to practice trauma-informed care, and to intervene effectively in clinical situations requiring the management of aggressive behaviour, providing de-escalation and crisis intervention, and providing risk assessment and management. The incumbent will possess effective decision-making and problem-solving skills in the provision of client care.
Knowledge of community resources and discharge planning is required. The incumbent will also be able to meet deadlines, and have excellent computer skills and knowledge of technology to enhance communication and learning, and to provide virtual care. Bilingualism (French/English) and/or proficiency in a second language is considered an asset.