Ottawa Salus·Ottawa, Ontario
Provide supportive counseling, crisis intervention, and group programming for clients in a 24-hour residential program. Assist tenants with life skills acquisition and coordinate with community partners for external referrals.
Bachelor degree in social work, psychology, social sciences or equivalent educational background in a related discipline Three (3) years of experience working with clients in the areas of substance use health and mental health Two (2) years of experience working in a residential or supportive housing setting, an asset
Provide Group support Establish a supportive, respectful relationship with clients/ tenants Provide group intervention, advocacy and mediation when necessary Facilitate group programming Resolve disputes that may arise between clients/ tenants Support the implementation of recreational events and meaningful activities Provide Program support Provide supportive counseling and problem-solving to clients/ tenants when necessary Support new clients/ tenants in their integration to the program Foster a sense of community and connection within the Program Provide crisis intervention support including overdose response Support clients in establishing healthy sleep patterns Support clients/ tenants in following the rules and expectations of the Program Support clients/ tenants in acquiring basic life skills –personal hygiene, laundry etc. Support clients/ tenants in general domains of life: basic needs, physical and mental health, housing, financial, social, spiritual, legal, educational and vocational Work collaboratively with community partners and support the referral of clients/ tenants to external agencies as needed Support on-call Provide on-call support while on duty Debrief with day staff and supervisor, as needed Other Document as needed in the log book, incident reports, etc. Ensure documentation is up to date in the client’s file Review client files on a regular basis –be familiar with client’s overall goals and their current progress Participate in staff meetings Participate in professional development sessions Adhere to program protocols and procedures including health and safety Other related duties as determined by the Manager SUITABILITY Displays a professional approach to the work along with the values and attitudes that is in keeping with the helping professions (i.e., sensitivity, respect, understanding, sincerity, genuineness, perseverance, patience, compassion, positive outlook, non-judgmental attitude, acceptance, tolerance etc.) client-centered, caring, supportive and reliable sound judgment and common sense in decision making and problem solving; critical thinking, intelligence demonstrates initiative, creativity, flexibility and independence sense of humor commitment to work and life-long learning KNOWLEDGE Knowledge of mental health, substance use health and treatment modalities Knowledge of community resources for individuals living with mental health, substance use health and those experiencing chronic homelessness Knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act and Tribunal processes knowledge of group dynamics theory and practice knowledge of concurrent disorders theory knowledge of ethical standards relevant to social service work (confidentiality, boundaries etc) knowledge of social problems associated with psychiatric disabilities (poverty, stigma, labeling, homelessness, oppression, addiction etc) knowledge of mental health legislation knowledge of community crises services knowledge of sleep patterns, circadian rhythms, effects of food and substances, all pertaining to establishing normal sleep patterns SKILLS connecting skills; empathy, active listening group intervention skills, including the ability to use mediation, conflict resolution, problem solving skills at a group level ability to relate to clients suing a strengths based, client-centered approach ability to work both in a team and independently interpersonal skills; ability to work closely with supervisor, colleagues and a diversity of clients conflict resolution skills professional boundaries life skills teaching crisis intervention, suicide prevention and intervention skills stress management skills counseling skills ability to manage time and resources effectively, punctuality communication skills (oral, written) record keeping skills, documentation Computer Skills (word processing, e-mail, internet)
Requires a Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related social science. Candidates must have three years of experience in substance use and mental health, with residential experience considered an asset.
Market context
In Ontario, behavioral-health roles are typically driven by ongoing need in community, outpatient, and support settings serving people with mental health or substance use challenges. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for experience with diverse populations plus a high school diploma or GED, with a bachelor’s in social work or a related field preferred. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to show relevant client-facing experience and readiness to work with varied needs.