POSITION SUMMARY:

To screen, assess, and provide ongoing client therapy, counselling and case management to culturally Deaf, oral deaf, deafened and hard of hearing individuals. To initiate and facilitate group sessions related to community mental health issues. Educate, consult and build partnerships with service providers and consumers regarding Mental Health and issues related to culturally Deaf, oral deaf, deafened, and hard of hearing communities.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Direct Service:

•    Provide ongoing confidential counselling and case management using various theoretical frameworks and interventions in relation to individual client / family needs.
•    Prepare and provide short- and long-term plans in relation to specific client requirements and assist clients in the development of coping skills, social skills and life skills as appropriate.
•    Provide psycho-education, consultation and referrals to clients regarding mental health and addiction issues.
•    Provide education and consultation to mainstream agencies regarding hearing loss and accessibility.
•    Provide intake assessments as appropriate and required, participate in case conference meetings, and work with clients and their families as assigned.
•    Actively seek partnerships regarding specific client needs and coordinate services as required regarding culturally Deaf, oral deaf, deafened and hard of hearing issues.
•    Other duties as assigned

Administration:

•    Initiate, maintain, and update accurate client reports, case notes, files, assessment forms, and other information as required by CHS/government policies and procedures
•    Maintain internal (CHS) statistics and external statistics/reports utilizing internal database
•    Research, develop, and prepare materials related to clinical client intervention and services
•    Maintain and provide summary client services reports when required
•    Provide administrative information in accordance with government policies, e.g. Privacy Legislation.
•    Other duties as assigned

Community Education:

•    Advocate for accessibility and accommodation with external contacts.
•    Educate other agencies and organizations on CHS programs and services.
•    Act as CHS representative and provide information or presentations pertaining to services at external workshops, seminars, displays, etc.
•    Promote services through external contacts, networks and general inquiries
•    Participate in community projects and specialized campaigns E.g.: United Way, Maymonth etc
•    Assist in the preparation, promotion and implementation of community workshops or forums as required.
•    Co-ordinate information and participate in specific programs such as community or consumer workshops
•    Actively participate in internal and external committees

Professional Development:

•    Attend all department and agency staff meetings as required
•    Attend annual training and team building events as required
•    Keep up to date with relevant legislation and trends
•    Acquire and maintain ASL proficiency to the level required for the position (Advanced Plus)

LINE OF RESPONSIBILITY:  Manager, Connect & GSS Counselling Services

QUALIFICATIONS:

•    Master’s degree in Social Work/Mental Health Counselling or equivalent
•    3 – 5 years work experience in mental health, clinical social work or equivalent – preferably with an adult psychiatric population
•    Experience working with individuals and families (including children & adolescents)
•    Experience in working with community resources making presentation
•    Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL), or willingness to learn
•    Knowledge/experience with deafness and cultural issues
•    Demonstrated excellent interpersonal, organizational and communication skills
•    Demonstrated excellent analytical and problem solving skills
•    Demonstrated creativity and flexibility
•    Demonstrated ability to handle multiple priorities
•    Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a team
•    Demonstrated sensitivity to working in a culturally diverse environment
•    Proficiency in MS Office Suite and Internet
•    Valid Driver’s License; some local travel and occasional travel outside of the region