Position Title: Wellbeing Counsellor

Organization Structure: Reports to the Program Coordinator

Job Classification: Counsellor

Job Status: Full-time

Location: RAP Center – Mississauga

Wage: $27.47/hour for 40 hours/week

This is a Bargaining Unit Position.

We advise all applicants with work permits that obtaining employment with Polycultural will not guarantee the approval of any application for Permanent Resident status and emphasize that Polycultural’s positions do not currently qualify under the government’s Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) initiatives. 

About Polycultural

Be a part of Polycultural Immigrant and Community services! Founded in 1993, Polycultural is dedicated to hosting an open and inclusive environment for all. We are a multicultural melting-pot perfectly reflecting Canada’s diversity. We are like a family, have a culture filled with care and genuine connection with a very inclusive environment for all. With a diverse range of programs and services, we help individuals and families build a brighter future in Canada. Serving clients from over eight different locations across the GTA and Orangeville in more than 20 languages.

Polycultural offers a comprehensive benefits, including paid time off at Christmas (for eligible employees), employer paid Extended Health and Dental, RRSP match, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and WorkPerks!

Scope

Responsible for providing counselling services that provides guidance and support to clients who are dealing with various problems, crises/stress of adjusting to life in Canada, or due to high needs and situations. The Wellbeing Counsellor will provide short-term support and service planning to clients and link these clients successfully to the appropriate mainstream services as applicable, including referring them to support groups, professional counselling services, and peer networks. Familiarity with other services and resources in the community to work together with other organizations to provide accurate information and support is a requirement. Also, provide education to individuals and groups in the community with a focus on high risk populations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide counselling and support services to individuals and families experiencing crisis/stress issues including assessment, individual, family, or group counselling sessions and referrals to appropriate professionals
• Conduct assessment of clients and identify their needs and situation
• Develop a plan of support and goals that are client-centred
• Provide supportive counselling in the areas of client’s needs, substance abuse, family violence, grief, crisis intervention, trauma, and other issues
• Develop effective relationships with clients and their support systems
• Organize and lead support groups as needs arise, with a focus on families, seniors, and youth
• Develop specific support groups on families’ issues, focusing on parenting, adaptation to social changes, and migration stress
• Facilitate referrals to appropriate internal and external resources
• Develop partnerships and collaborate with health and community support systems in the area
• Work as a member of the team to ensure that the program operates efficiently and effectively
• Maintain close collaborative working relationships and liaise with other service professionals and institutions
• Using a client-centered approach, advocate on behalf of clients in association with their community support network
• Provide accurate reporting for supervisor
• Participate in community outreach to promote program services
• Attend professional development workshops as required
• Actively participate in the professional development initiatives
• Submit monthly statistical and narrative reports as required
• Must meet targets set by Programs Manager
• Perform other related duties as required

Competencies

Adaptability

Changes behavioural style or method of approach when necessary to achieve a goal; adjusts style as appropriate to the needs of the situation. Responds to change with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn new ways to accomplish work activities and objectives.

Communications

Using a variety of communication styles and strategies to foster open communication and the exchange of information and discussion on an ongoing basis.

Initiative

Does more than is required or expected in the job; does things that no one has requested that will improve or enhance services, avoid problems, and develops entrepreneurial opportunities. Plans ahead for upcoming problems or opportunities and takes appropriate action.

Service

Demonstrates strong commitment to meeting the needs of clients, co-workers, managers, or community members, striving to ensure their full satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Degree in Psychology or Social Work from an accredited educational institution
• 3-5 years of experience working with case management, mental health counselling, addictions, and crisis intervention
• Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) or Registered Psychotherapist in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) is an asset
• Knowledge of major mental illnesses, including signs/symptoms, medication management, addictions, and other issues
• Knowledge of case management, including local resources and access to services
• Excellent assessment skills
• Knowledge of settlement and adaptability issues
• Knowledge of sexual and domestic violence issues
• Knowledge of all relevant legislation, policies, and practices
• Ability to engage and build rapport with clients from various cultural and social-economic backgrounds
• Strong client advocacy skills
• Ability to assist in complex client live circumstances and maintain healthy boundaries
• Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Demonstrate ability to work effectively within a team and independently with minimal supervision
• Create a safe, comfortable environment for clients to work within
• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and attendance
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written
• Strong time management skills
• Fluency in a second language is a definite asset (Arabic/ Dari/ Pashto/Spanish/French)

Other requirements

• A satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Police Check (completed when an offer is made)

Polycultural reserves the right to post internally and externally.

In support of persons with disabilities, Polycultural asks that job applicants who require accommodation in the recruitment and selection process please advise Human Resources if contacted for an interview/testing so that suitable accommodation can be arranged. (In compliance with AODA, 2005, Integrated Accessibility Standards). If you require assistance sending your resume due to a disability, please get in touch with Human Resources directly.

We thank everyone for their interest in Polycultural; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Polycultural Immigrant & Community Services hires based on merit and is committed to employment equity.

No phone calls please.