Position overview
On the cusp of a new era in mental health where all Canadians understand the value of social connection, we are hiring a new Steps Program Coordinator to support North Shore youth experiencing challenges with their mental health through group-based therapeutic recreational activities. The Steps Youth Worker facilitates the Steps group for youth aged 13 to 18 and the Steps+ group for youth aged 18 to 29.
The Steps Youth Program supports young people dealing with issues such as depression and anxiety by building wellness through social and recreational activities. Offered from September to June (with some summer engagement), the Steps program meets weekly. More information about Steps is available here: https://northwestvancouver.cmha.bc.ca/programs-services/steps-youth-program/
Duties and Responsibilities:
Develop and facilitate therapeutic recreational programming appropriate for youth experiencing anxiety and depression
Interview potential participants and liaise with referral agencies
Build trust and rapport with youth while respecting their privacy and autonomy
Deliver client-centered harm-reduction support that is specific and unique to youth participants
Provide participants with rides to and from programming
Gather statistical program data
Skills and Abilities:
Experience working with youth with mental health challenges
Ability to demonstrate strong professional boundaries
Tolerate frustration and resistance from participants
Knowledge of community resources specific to youth
Mentor, coach and reflect a practice that lies within anti-oppression, harm reduction and psychosocial rehabilitation frameworks
Work independently and be self-motivated
Respond to change with openness and flexibility
Receive and provide constructive feedback
Facilitate and participate in conflict resolution
Qualifications:
Diploma or degree in social services or related field
Experience working with youth experiencing mental health challenges
Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle
Physical capacity to carry out the duties and operate related equipment
Easily engages with persons from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences
Understands importance of anti-oppressive practice and professional boundaries
Punctual and reports problems promptly
Experience and familiarity with mental health and addictions issues. Must have or be willing to take Mental Health First Aid
Skill in designing, writing, and editing promotional materials
Knowledge of community resources
Experience in event planning
Excellent computer skills
Experience and/or education in the management of non-profit organizations an asset
First Aid and CPR training
A criminal record check for working with vulnerable sectors is required upon hiring.
Reports to: Counselling Manager
Hours of Work and Special Considerations: 21 hours per week, including evenings (Mondays 5:30-8:30 and Thursdays 5:30-8:30). Flexible hours with the opportunity to work from home (beyond the Covid crisis). Starting immediately.
Salary: $22/hour, depending on experience.
Benefits: 6% vacation. Comprehensive extended health and dental benefits, including Health Spending Account. RRSP.
We are an equity employer and encourage applicants from women, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people, people of all sexual orientation and genders and others who may contribute to our further diversification.
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume detailing your experience and qualifications to maria.watson@cmha.bc.ca