At carya (formerly Calgary Family Services), we know that the strength of our community is rooted in its people.  That’s why we’ve dedicated more than 110 years of service to creating healthier, more connected communities in Calgary.

With numerous programs for youth, families, and older adults, we provide a spectrum of mental health and social inclusion services for people of all ages - from babies to youth to older adults - and their support networks. Our highly skilled team encourages thousands of Calgarians each year to discover their full potential and build flourishing relationships with their families and community.

This position reports to a Clinical Supervisor and is part of the Strong Families in Community department.

Position Summary
As part of a multi-disciplinary team, the Functional Family Therapist’s primary responsibility is to provide direct counselling service to families of children across all ages in a variety of settings (office, school, home) in the community. Effectively engaging clients and focusing on growth, development and positive change, using the Functional Family Therapy (FFT) model, follow ethical guidelines and respect the client’s uniqueness and right to self-determination while keeping in mind a child’s right to be protected.

Functional Family Therapy (FFT) therapists are required to manage an active caseload and be willing to see clients, primarily families but also with flexibility to meet individually and in dyads, as well as group work as needed. Caseload composition will vary according to the needs of the community, funder requests and needs of the agency.  Therapists are responsible for managing cases including assessment, intervention and closure as well as documentation of the process.

Therapists are required to keep abreast of relevant literature and research, to ensure service delivery according to best practice, ethical guidelines and meet adherence and fidelity requirements for FFT. Therapist are also required to utilize supervision regularly and to work holistically and collaboratively with all partners involved. Therapists must ensure that service is delivered according to policy and procedure guidelines and performance standards. Therapists must be available to deliver service at least two evenings per week and be flexible and creative in meeting client needs. This position requires close collaborations and working relationships with several Calgary partnerships to ensure quality treatment for all families.

In alignment with carya’s mission and the systemic nature of our work, some portion of a counsellor’s time is to be committed to community engagement with families with children. As a member of the Strong Families in Community Team, you will engage with children, youth, couples and families in a client-directed way, in the context of their community.  These positions will be focused upon family systems interventions, specifically using the Family Functional Therapy (FFT) model.  Flexibility, an ability to engage and work within the community from a natural supports lens, an interest in working with family structures, and a willingness to be trained in evidence-based practices are necessities.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Master’s degree is required (MSW, MA, Med., MSc) in psychology, social work or related disciplines, including training/experience in methods of group education and related developmental/family/group dynamic theory as well as, previous experience working with families and people of all ages in a counselling environment
• Certification with the Alberta Family wellness Initiative’s Core Brain Story
• Training in Natural Supports Framework training is preferred
• Skillful use of therapeutic modalities and engagement in clinical supervision as well as the ability to collaborate with other professionals in the community with a natural supports lens is essential
• Experience with case management, assessment, intervention, collaboration, presentation and group work is required
• A passion for working to create change within families
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible in time, place of work and engagement strategies
• Innovative and client-centered in approach
• A demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team as well as independently
• Experience working in collaborative and partner relationships
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong technical skills and familiarity with data base management systems is required

Please note: applicants are encouraged to present with a current Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Review and a Child Intervention Record Check.

Full Time Regular

(1.0 FTE, 37.5 hours per week; $59,999 - $73,790)

Competitive benefits package, flexible work schedule & supportive work environment

Closing Date

April 11, 2021

If you are seeking a genuine challenge in a workplace where excellence is valued and the atmosphere is supportive, please send your résumé and cover letter to:  

carya Human Resources at

Carya is an equal opportunity employer. Persons from diverse groups are encouraged to apply. We wish to thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.