Addictions Counsellor / Case Manager (Safe Beds)

Join us at Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC) and become a catalyst for change in the lives of individuals navigating the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges. This is more than a job—it's a chance to make a real difference in your community and to grow with a team that values your expertise and passion.

About Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC):

PAARC is a notable not-for-profit charitable organization funded by the Ministry of Health, through Ontario Health Central Region. With full accreditation from the Canadian Centre for Accreditation, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive services to those dealing with alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming, and various behavioral dependencies, alongside supporting mental health challenges. Our commitment to a diverse, inclusive workplace and a person-centered approach underlines our services and team ethos.

About the role

The Short-Stay Crisis Services Addictions Support Program (Safe Beds) supports people who are staying in the Mississauga Short-Stay Crisis Support Program, operated by Services and Housing in the Province (SHIP), for whom substance use negatively affects their life. This program provides supportive addiction counselling to clients of the program. Additionally, the counsellor is integrated into the on-site team and works collaboratively with client and the care team to assist clients to transition from Safe beds into the community with an established support network.

We are hiring for one (1) full-time, permanent role.

Benefits included: Mileage reimbursement, RRSP matching, group health/dental plan, LTD/life insurance, EAP, 4 weeks of vacation to start, remote work one day per week in line with our policy, professional development opportunities

What you'll do

• Conduct intake, screening, assessment, and treatment planning, using appropriate tools and methods to ensure the eligibility and ongoing needs of applicants.
• Provide ongoing supportive counselling and case management, including assessment, referral, aftercare, and discharge, while effectively managing a defined caseload.
• Respond to crisis situations with appropriate interventions and support clients in developing and understanding healthy boundaries.
• Participate actively in case conferences and consultations with treatment providers and other community organizations, fostering collaborative care.
• Facilitate structured group sessions as needed on topics such as psychoeducation and harm reduction.
• Initiate and maintain client files and documentation in accordance with best practices and legal guidelines, ensuring data accuracy and timeliness

Skills & Competencies

• Clinical skills in addiction and substance abuse, concurrent disorders and/or withdrawal management, with the ability to perform brief psychosocial and risk assessments.
• Knowledge of evidence-based treatment methodologies for addiction, including cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing.
• Experience in delivering counselling services through individual sessions, group therapy, group facilitation and/or educational workshops.
• Knowledge and/or experience working with clients in various personal circumstances or settings - including but not limited to transitional housing/homelessness, adults, seniors, youth, mandated client programs and those within the criminal justice system.
• Proficiency in non-violent crisis intervention techniques and CPR/First Aid.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work empathetically with people from all socio-economic backgrounds, including marginalized/stigmatized populations
• Critical thinking skills and the capacity to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated knowledge and a philosophy of substance abuse aligned with PAARC's philosophy.

Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field from an accredited institution or relevant education with commensurate experience.
• Knowledge and/or experience working in a harm reduction framework
• Relevant experience (2 years) working in a shelter or transitional housing setting an asset
• Certifications: Current CPR and First Aid required; GAIN Q3 MI ONT Certification an asset
• Counselling Skills: evidence-based, trauma-informed counselling skills
• Training/experience administering Naloxone preferred
• Language Skills: Proficiency in prevalent languages in the Region of Peel and French considered a strong asset.
• Transportation: Valid Ontario Driver’s License, insurance, and reliable vehicle required.

Working Conditions

• The role will be working primarily at the Safe Beds Mississauga location and within the community (80-90%). The remaining time will be spent at PAARC offices.
• 35-hour work week; Mon - Fri 8:30 am- 4:30 pm.

By joining our team at PAARC, you're not just accepting a job; you're embarking on a rewarding career path that offers growth, fulfillment, and the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive, supportive community. Apply now to be part of a dynamic team where your work truly matters and helps transform lives every day.

PAARC is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to accessible and inclusive employment practices in compliance with AODA. We value diversity and encourage all qualified candidates, including women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and Aboriginal Peoples, to apply. Our commitment extends through all recruitment stages. We encourage candidates to specify if they require any accommodation to ensure their full participation in the recruitment process, striving for an inclusive work environment where everyone is respected and valued.