Addictions Specialist/ Early Psychosis Intervention Counsellor

About this position

ADAPT (Halton Alcohol Drug and Gambling Assessment Prevention and Treatment Services) is one of the largest and most diversified treatment agencies in Ontario. We offer a full spectrum of services to clients experiencing concerns with addictions, mental health or concurrent disorders, as well as to their families and loved ones.

Become part of the ADAPT team; the team that makes a difference, supports its employees in their career development and creates a positive environment to work in.

We are hiring for an Addictions Specialist/ Early Psychosis Intervention Counsellor.

This position will be classified as 1.0FTE, permanent

Location: outreach across Halton; office base: Burlington

SUMMARY: Delivering clinical services, primarily on an outreach basis, to Clients involved with the Phoenix Early Intervention Service for Psychosis, by providing clinical assessments and developing and implementing clinically sound treatment plans. Maintaining client records according to guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC). Providing statistical and anecdotal input for the evaluation of ADAPT programs as required. Representing ADAPT with community groups, as requested.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:

• provides clinical intake services, primarily on an outreach basis, for Clients involved with the Phoenix Program for entry into ADAPT programs
• assesses client needs through the use of diagnostic tools and structured interviews
• in consultation with the Client and other members of his/her clinical team, develops an individual Treatment Plan for the Client
• provides individual and/or group counselling to address the Clients’ needs
• conducts group sessions as required
• refers Clients to other appropriate support services and agencies according to the Clients’ needs
• conducts appropriate case management services with respect to the Client’s treatment plan
• provides consultative services within ADAPT regarding matters related to the Phoenix Program (i.e. eligibility criteria, referral process, psychosis-related resource sharing)
• provides consultative services to community agencies, professionals or individuals as required
• participates in regular case conferencing meetings with the three Phoenix program clinical teams operating out of Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, Halton Healthcare Services at the North Halton Mental Health Clinic (Milton, Acton, Georgetown) and Halton Healthcare Services at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital
• maintains accurate and complete clinical records and service tracking data according to guidelines established by ADAPT, the MOHLTC and/or the funding agency
• assists in the promotion of ADAPT and the Phoenix Program to other agencies and the general public
• participates in meetings as required, including Concurrent Disorders Team and Phoenix Program meetings
• provides input into the operational and strategic planning related to ADAPT programs as required, specifically in relation to ADAPT’s involvement with the Phoenix Program partnership
• assists in maintaining a high level of open and effective communications within the organization and among program partners
• provides other services according to the conditions of program funding
• participates in committees as required
• participates in community education and public awareness initiatives as required
• participates in performance evaluations as required
• participates in clinical supervision sessions as required
• participates in professional development activities as required
• participates in Early Psychosis Intervention Ontario Network (EPION) activities as required

 EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• University degree/ college diploma in Social Work/ Social Service and/ or Health related field plus Addiction/ Concurrent Disorders studies certification, or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• A strong knowledge of concurrent disorders and experience working with this population is essential.
• A basic understanding of the symptoms, prognosis, and treatments of major mental disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bi-polar disorder would be an asset.
• A strong knowledge of cannabis, its impact on the developing brain, the link between cannabis and psychosis, and the risk/benefit profile when used in combination with mental disorders would be a significant asset.

SKILLS:

• Very strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, very well organized, able to work independently as well as part of a team, and able to work effectively in an intensive role.
• Very strong sense of ethics and confidentiality.
• Ability to communicate effectively with Clients and employees at all levels within the organization.
• Strong listening skills.
• Ability to effectively present complex clinical information in writing and verbally.
• Ability to read and understand documentation such as operating instructions, procedures manuals and complex clinical reports.
• Public speaking skills and the ability to create and effectively deliver PowerPoint presentations would be an asset. 
• Ability to deal effectively with ‘people’ and administrative challenges.
• Ability to apply understanding, based on experience, to carry out instructions given in written or oral form.
• Ability to analyze and resolve problems involving a large number of abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to use common office administration software, such as MS Office. Ability to learn and adapt to new computer software and applications.
• Regular access to a dependable vehicle is required. 

ADAPT is proud to offer:

- competitive salary; - full package of health and dental benefits; - life insurance; - unbeatable RRSP program; - flexible working hours; - continuing education opportunities; - corporate wellness programs; - attractive vacation levels; - EAP; - paid sick time; - company events and social hours; - casual dress code, and much more.

ADAPT is a respectful, caring and inclusive workplace committed to Employment Equity. We welcome diversity in the workplace, and encourage applications from all qualified individuals including members of visible minorities, aboriginal persons, and persons with disabilities. We will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment and selection and/or assessment process to applicants with disabilities. Applicants need to make their accommodation needs known when contacted.