Addiction Counsellor I

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 Addictions Counsellor role is dedicated to providing substance use services tailored to the needs of Aboriginal individuals and families within the Kamloops community and surrounding areas. These services address addiction challenges and emphasize prevention, supporting adults, elders, and youth aged 15 and above, including status, non-status, Métis, Inuit, or two-spirited individuals living on and off reserves, including rural areas.

Under the supervision of the General Manager, the Addictions Counsellor provides culturally appropriate direct services to enhance the health and well-being of Aboriginal people within the region and reduce health disparities. Provide immediate support and intervention to clients experiencing acute emotional or physical distress, including risk assessment and mitigation to ensure safety and well-being.

Deliver community education on addiction prevention and treatment through workshops, presentations, outreach activities, and information sessions.

Work collaboratively with other professionals including social workers, probation officers, lawyers, and counselors, and act as a liaison between clients and external services to ensure seamless coordination of care.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, documenting assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, outcomes, and discharge summaries in accordance with organizational and regulatory standards.

Generate reports and documentation, including monthly activity progress reports to the General Manager, two final activity reports to the funding agency, and required reporting through the Addictions Information Management System (AIMS).

Facilitate referrals by directing clients or general inquiries to appropriate agencies, resource persons, or support systems, and engage in consultation with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and colleagues to support comprehensive care.

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.

Certification or license as an Addictions Counsellor preferred.

Previous experience in addiction counseling or a related field.

Experience applying various counseling modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based approaches.

Proficiency in coordinating and integrating services with social workers, probation officers, legal professionals, and other providers.

Demonstrated knowledge of local First Nations/Aboriginal cultures and communities, including an understanding of Aboriginal health issues and cultural and spiritual practices.

Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations, providing immediate support, intervention, and assessments that inform individualized treatment plans.

Ability to identify barriers to recovery and work with clients to develop strategies that support their goals and long-term well-being.

Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with the ability to travel to alternate sites around the Kamloops area

Vulnerable sector criminal record check

Compensation: $30.00 - $32.00 per hour

Group benefits including extended health, dental, and vision

Employee Assistance Program

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