ABOUT US

Through the vision to eliminate poverty in our community and guided by a passionate concern for the dignity and well-being of each individual, Bissell Centre’s work is based on building relationships, hope and trust. Our mission is to work with others to empower people to move from poverty to cultural, social, and economic prosperity. We empower people to meet their own basic daily needs, participate in community and have sustainable livelihoods, secure housing, feel hope for the future and make plans for a prosperous life. By joining Bissell Centre, you will become part of a fast-paced and dedicated team that works together to realize our vision.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Occupational Therapist (OT), under the direction of the Manager, will work as a part of the Care Team at Hope Terrace. The OT will provide support to adults who are diagnosed with the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) to provide trauma-informed, client-centered care. The OT will assess residents executive function and assist in the formulation of care plans. This position is responsible for the coordination of clinical services that focus on assessing residents executive function and daily living skills.

This position requires successful working relationships with residents and Hope Terrace staff. Through assessment and intervention, the OT, will support skill development that enables residents in activities of daily living, employment and any additional areas that aim to increase home stability, reduce isolation and increase meaningful daily activity.

This position will influence and celebrate positive outcomes with residents and will work with the Hope Terrace front line staff and care team to mitigate problems and obstacles that threaten to undermine residents’ wellbeing. Keeping clear and accurate files and records is essential. The Occupational Therapist will collaborate with the Manager of Supportive Housing, the Case Manager and other community supports.

The Occupational Therapist is expected to have the ability to respond quickly to individuals in crisis.

Job-type: Permanent, Full-time

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

Program Delivery

• Working both independently and as a member of the Care Team, the successful candidate will provide evidence informed and best practices in crisis intervention, assessment, consultation, referral, case management and treatment.
• Administer assessment on all residents, as appropriate. This includes the Executive Function Performance Test (EFPT) Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile.
• In collaboration with the Case Manager, develop and deliver group programming that focuses on daily living skills and executive functioning.
• Work with care team and front-line staff to see that client care goals are being met.
• Assist Residential Support Workers (RSW) in establishing and meeting meaningful goals with the residents within the home and community setting
• Develop and implement strategies and programs that address emotional regulation and that promote adaptive social and life skills
• Collaborate in the development of methods that address emotional regulation and that promote adaptive social and life skills.
• Participate in ongoing learning and training opportunities as identified on a yearly performance review.
• Interact with residents in a non-judgmental way, using de-escalation and rapport building techniques.
• Provides necessary support in crises and emergencies.
• Any other tasks assigned by the Manager.

General and Administrative

• Maintain accurate written case file notes, computer records, update program databases (ETO), program information, and critical incident reports within established time standards
• Provide latest program information and updated statistics as required
• Maintain and submit accurate mileage and expense logs for reimbursement
• Participate in probationary and annual performance reviews
• Attend scheduled staff, supervision and Care Team meetings.
• Complete WCB forms as required

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

• Degree in Occupational Therapy
• 2-3 years experience working with high-risk populations which includes, but is not limited to, understanding poverty, homelessness, addictions, FASD and mental health concerns.
• Good standing with the Alberta College of Occupational Therapy.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Solution focused with good time management, strong organizational, problem-solving and advocacy skills.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel programs.
• Familiar with issues of poverty, homelessness and Edmonton’s urban core.
• Familiar working with high-risk populations and have an understanding of Indigenous cultures, history, and current issues.
• Demonstrated ability to provide individual and group support programming and services; as well as workshop development and facilitation.

Conditions of Work

• Operation of personal vehicle with required insurance
• Some early morning, evening and weekend work may be required as caseload coverage is participant centered
• Participation in organizational wide Community Safety Walks in the area of Bissell East and West, daily interactions with participants and community members served.

Screening Requirements

• Criminal Record Check
• CWIS Check
• Valid driver’s license, proof of $1 million PLPD insurance and drivers abstract
• Current registration with professional college

Training requirements

• Standard First Aid and CPR
• Conflict Into Calm Training
• Suicide Prevention

The above-noted training must be completed during the first six months of employment.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter to:

Nola Visser

Manager, Permanent Supportive Housing

Application Deadline: May 25th, 2022

We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only candidates selected for interview will be contacted.

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, Bissell Centre continues to take action to protect person served and staff. Strategies related to Bissell Centre’s response to COVID-19 are driven by the guiding principle of taking all reasonable precautions and measures to protect the health and safety of both persons served and staff. In keeping with this intentional purpose, COVID-19 full vaccination is a condition of employment for new hires, except due to legitimate, established exceptions.

Bissell Centre is an equal opportunity employer who is committed to diversity within our community and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, genetic characteristics, or disability. Bissell Centre is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees, in accordance with provincially and federally legislated protected grounds.