PLEA Community Services is currently seeking a Temporary Full-Time Registered Clinical Counsellor for our Clinical Counselling team. The proposed start date for this position is as soon as possible; the position will end upon the return of the incumbent. The term contract is estimated to be 8 months in duration. This position requires BCGEU membership.

Hours of Work: The usual hours of work for this position are Tuesday to Saturday with a flextime scheduling arrangement based on 35 working hours per week.

Closing date for Internal Applications: Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 4:30PM. If the position is not filled internally, it will remain open until filled.

Education/Experience Requirements: A Master's degree in counselling, counselling psychology, psychology, social work or a related field; one (1) or more years of recent related experience in providing counselling services to individuals and families; Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) designation from the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

Who we are: 

PLEA is an accredited, charitable community services organization that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver community-based services and specialized supported homes to children, youth, adults and families facing significant challenges in their lives. We continually adapt our programs to suit each individual’s diverse strengths, needs and circumstances. As a result, we have a strong reputation for helping those we serve to overcome the challenges they face and lead fulfilling lives.

What You Will Do:  

• Develop strong collaborative relationships with clients, families, and Family Caregivers to encourage their active participation in clinical counselling services and supports.
• Identify and assess client's needs in conjunction with Family Caregivers, agency staff, professionals, and members of the care team. Assess the social, psychological, emotional and/or behavioral challenges facing clients. Identifies core areas of concern to be addressed by clinical counselling.
• Develop and implement therapeutic approaches and interventions to support clients in positive, sustainable behavioral change, growth and development. Provide a variety of counselling interventions in accordance with the program's policies and procedures.
• Participate in the planning processes as part of a care team supporting the client. Provide consultation to care team as required. Advise other professionals involved with client's care where further evaluation or more intensive treatment is required.
• Provide conflict-resolution support and strategies for clients as-needed. Respond to critical incidents, implement crisis intervention strategies, and inform the care team as needed.
• Maintain knowledge of community resources and provide appropriate referrals to clients to meet their needs.
• Provide required reports on clients' behaviour and progress. Maintain clinical records in accordance with the program's policies and procedures.
• Adhere to ethical principles and standard pf practice in the counselling profession. Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring: 

• Demonstrated ability to promote behavioural changes through a variety of counselling approaches and interventions, including with clients who may be reluctant to engage.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to build trusting and effective relationships with clientele, agency staff, professionals, Family Caregivers, and families.
• Demonstrated skills in working with families in crisis and facilitating individual, family and group counselling.
• Exceptional conflict management and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions in high pressure situations and be accountable for results.
• Demonstrate organizational and time management skills, including the ability to multi-task and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare accurate and comprehensive clinical reports.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals' social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of counselling issues and trends.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, database systems and web-based conferencing tools.

PLEA Benefits and Perks: 

• Eligibility to enroll in health/welfare benefits on the first day of the month following the completion of the probation period.
• An education and training fund*
• A physical activity fund*
• Access to an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): confidential and voluntary counselling support services and wellness resources.
• Discounted Membership Fees for Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).
• Perkopolis Membership - exclusive managed discount, reward, and benefits programs.

*these benefits are available to employees who are eligible for PLEA's health and welfare benefits.

Minimum Requirements: 

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Must possess a valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• Use of Personal Vehicle for work-related travel. This position requires travel in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.
• A valid B.C. Driver's License (Class 5), and suitable driver's abstract/claims history. 
• Documentation that applicant is legally approved to work in Canada.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.