Cheam First Nation Hiring for Wellness Advocate Full Time

Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Health and Wellness Manager, the Wellness Advocate’s primary goal is to provide non-clinical counselling services including, confidential addictions counselling, referrals to detox and treatment facilities, education and support to Cheam Members and their families, and to promote positive and healthy lifestyles and choices.

Although the hours are typically Monday to Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm. The Wellness Advocate can expect to work some irregular hours, evenings and weekends and will need to manage time to accommodate scheduled and unscheduled client visits. This position is located 15 minutes east from Chilliwack, in Rosedale, BC.

Desired Qualifications / Education / Experience / Skills:

• Diploma in Psychology, Counselling, Substance Abuse Training, etc.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of working experience in the Drug and Alcohol Counselling field.
• Experience in performing individual and group counselling sessions, crisis intervention, mediation and ability to facilitate healing circles.
• Proficient knowledge in the causes and effects of drug and alcohol addiction, substance abuse, FAS/E, family dynamics and the impacts of trauma.
• Knowledge of resource agencies such as treatment centers, local counselors and/or other related health care providers, etc.
• Knowledge and active implementation of harm reduction principles.
• Experience with program and project management, delivery and evaluation.
• NNADAP (National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program) Certification is considered an asset.
• Ability to be flexible and to work in an environment that applies cross training within other Departments.
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, Internet, and Email).
• Knowledge, respect and understanding of Stó:lō culture, traditions and language is considered an asset.
• Experience working with First Nation community is considered an asset.
• Valid BC Driver’s License, Class 5.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Develop, Administer and Implement a Drug and Alcohol Program:

• Plan, organize and coordinate a drug and alcohol program, as well as mental health and self-care-related activities for individuals, families and groups.
• Provide weekly and monthly schedule of activities and advertise as needed, as well as, develop an annual work plan outlining programs that will tackle the topic of addictions.
• Develop monthly and annual statistics regarding program/event/activities/workshop attendance.
• Maintain confidential records of client interactions.
• Provide drug and alcohol-related counseling and support to individuals, families, and groups in the community. Counseling shall include education on the use and effects of alcohol and drugs. This also includes providing counseling to expectant mothers (pregnant women) about the effects of drug and alcohol use on the fetus.

Provide Counselling for Individuals, Families and Groups:

• Meet with clients to evaluate their health and substance problems.
• Identify issues and create goals and treatment plans.
• Lead group therapy sessions and/or meet with family members and provide guidance and support.
• Work with Clients to develop aftercare plans upon completing treatment.

Develop, Organize/Coordinate and Host Drug and Alcohol Educational Sessions, Events and other Health related Activities:

• Coordinate and host a variety of mental health related activities for clientele and community groups.
• Access, collect and store relevant information and resources. Distribute this information as necessary.
• Provide resources and make referrals to other agencies as required.

Provide, Organize and Coordinate Addictions Treatment Referrals:

• Assist individuals to identify their needs for treatment programs and liaise with treatment facilities staff.
• Assist client to meet all requirements for treatment participation. Assist clients through drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs and offer techniques for handling addictions.

Liaise with Community Agencies and Supports:

• Ensure on-going contact with affiliated agencies supporting drug and alcohol programs and services.
• Provide education by presentations and workshops, as requested.
• Other duties or responsibilities as assigned by your Manager.

*** Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights code, preference may be given to Applicants of Indigenous, Métis, or Inuit heritage. ***

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Extended health care
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Vision care

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Rosedale, BC: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree (preferred)

Experience:

• working in a First Nation Community: 2 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program Certification (preferred)

Work Location: One location