Mental Health Support Worker

THE ORGANIZATION

Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS) was established in 1972 and is a non-profit organization with a status free open-door policy. KAFS is dedicated to empowering the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities of Kamloops and surrounding areas. KAFS provides culturally appropriate programs and inclusive services that meet the needs of urban Indigenous people to become healthier, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Reporting to the General Manager, the Mental Health Support Worker is responsible for providing culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health support to individuals and families. This role will support individuals experiencing mental health challenges through direct support, advocacy, referrals, and connection to appropriate community and cultural resources.

The Mental Health Support Worker will work collaboratively with clients to identify their needs and goals, reduce barriers to accessing support, and strengthen connections to services that promote mental, emotional and physical well-being. The role will work closely with KAFS programs, community partners, and other service providers to support coordinated and culturally grounded care.

This is a contract position with a term ending March 31, 2027. Any extension beyond this date is dependent on continued program funding and is not guaranteed.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide one-to-one, trauma-informed mental health support to individuals accessing KAFS programs and services, including practical support, advocacy, referrals, and service navigation.
• Meet with clients to understand what support they are looking for, identify appropriate next steps, and provide ongoing follow-up throughout their engagement with KAFS.
• Support clients in accessing mental health, health, housing, income, social, cultural, and other community-based services, including reducing barriers where possible.
• Support individuals experiencing emotional distress and connect them with appropriate crisis or specialized services when required.
• Work closely with KAFS’ Addictions team and other internal programs to support clients with overlapping mental health, substance use, social, or wellness needs.
• Build and maintain relationships with community agencies, healthcare providers, and other service partners to support coordinated client care.
• Support clients in accessing cultural supports, community connections, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and traditional practices where appropriate and desired by the client.
• Provide support in a way that respects Indigenous ways of knowing, cultural identity, community connection, and each client’s own beliefs and practices.
• Facilitate or support mental health education, outreach, group activities, and community programming.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date client and program records, including required program activity and reporting data.
• Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to KAFS policies, professional boundaries, and reporting requirements.

REQUIREMENTS – WHAT YOU BRING TO KAFS

• 2–3 years of experience in mental health, social services, community support, outreach, case management, or a related setting.
• Post-secondary education in Social Work, Psychology, Counselling, Human Services, Indigenous Studies, or a related field is considered an asset.
• Experience supporting individuals with mental health concerns and helping clients navigate community-based services and supports.
• Knowledge of trauma-informed, person-centred, and strengths-based approaches to client support.
• Demonstrated cultural awareness and understanding of local First Nations and Indigenous communities, with the ability to provide support in a respectful and culturally responsive manner.
• Ability to respect each client’s identity, lived experience, cultural background, and individual preferences in the delivery of support.
• Experience building and maintaining positive working relationships with community organizations, healthcare providers, and other service partners.
• Strong understanding of professional boundaries, confidentiality, and respectful client service.
• Ability to recognize when additional or specialized support is required and connect clients with appropriate crisis, clinical, or community resources.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work effectively with clients, families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Strong organization and documentation skills with the ability to maintain accurate client records and program information.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative, community-based team environment.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Clearance.
• Valid Class 5 BC Driver's License and access to reliable transportation.

TOTAL REWARDS

• Wage: $32-$36/hour, based on skill set and experience
• Group benefits including extended health, dental, and vision
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Wellness Days Off

Preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry as per section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code (please self-identify in your cover letter).