Substance Use and Mental Health Support and Recovery Worker

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of Island Health (Vancouver Island Health Authority), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reporting to the Coordinator, as a member of a multidisciplinary and multi-agency outreach team, the Substance Use and Mental Health Support and Recovery Worker provides outreach community based support services, assists in substance use and/or mental health treatment, provides life skills training, coaching, advocacy and advice to a population of individuals with substance use/addiction issues with or without a mental illness that have experienced significant challenges related to poverty and homelessness as well as limited access or engagement in with the traditional system of care. Six primary philosophical perspectives guide the development of the model of care. These include: 1) health equity; 2) social justice; 3) strengths-based including empowerment; 4) lifespan development; 5) community collaboration; 6) systems integration. This position operates under the direction of professional staff who sign-off on the individual care plans.

Transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of the Vancouver Island Health Authority in accordance with the service assignment and may require the use of a personal vehicle.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education, Training And Experience

Post-secondary certification in addiction counselling, or a diploma in community social services, plus two years' recent related experience working with persons with substance use and/or mental health including teaching life skills, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Working knowledge of chemical dependency. Basic knowledge of community resources. Valid Class 5 BC Driver's License. Participation in Provincial Violence Training within first three months of employment.

Skills And Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing;
• Ability to deal with seriously addicted and mentally ill clients and their families;
• Ability to observe and recognize behavioural and/or health status changes in clients;
• Ability to facilitate supportive and educational groups;
• Ability to role model healthy lifestyle choices;
• Ability to set and maintain boundaries;
• Ability to work independently and in collaboration with others;
• Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills;
• Ability to operate related equipment and software programs such as word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to deal with others effectively.
• Ability to prioritize and organize client demands made and care needs.
• Ability to problem solve.
• Ability to teach life skills.
• Sound judgment and good observation skills.
• Ability to demonstrate an appropriate level of initiative and independence.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to promote positive change and independence.
• Physical and emotion ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to operate related equipment.
• Advocacy skills