MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority, patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at VIHA; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Under the direction of the Clinical Coordinator or designate, works within the organization’s framework and standards and a rehabilitation/recovery harm reduction focused model. The MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor works as a member of a multidisciplinary team and with other community agencies to provide triage, immediate support, assessment, urgent clinical response, harm reduction, short term psychotherapeutic/stabilization services, exploration of community resources and client needs, liaison and coordination with other community services. Participation in planning priorities for service to adults with mental health and addictions problems is required. Travel may be a requirement of this position. Transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of VIHA in accordance with the service assignment and may require the use of a personal vehicle and valid BC Drivers' License.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Baccalaureate Degree in a health related discipline from an approved post‑secondary institution.
• Recognized post‑basic education related to mental illness and/or alcohol and drug addiction; two (2) years' recent related experience in areas requiring frequent crisis intervention and risk assessment, such as policing, crisis counseling, paramedic or other similar work environment; understanding of mental health and alcohol and drug addiction issues; psychiatric and suicide/homicide risk assessments, psychiatric and addictions treatment methodologies, crisis intervention and response techniques and strategies, the change process, and community dynamics; knowledge of available programs and services, their interrelationships, and their function in delivering care in the community; knowledge of applicable legislation, such as the Mental Health Act, Child Protection legislation, and the Adult Guardianship Act; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Valid BC Drivers License.

Skills And Abilities

• Demonstrated competence in the treatment of addiction and mental illness congruent with VIHA's framework and standards within rehabilitation/recovery, harm reduction focused model.
• Demonstrated interpersonal and clinical skills, including crisis intervention, stabilization, de‑escalation and brief psychotherapy.
• Demonstrated organizational, problem‑solving and teaching skills.
• Demonstrated judgment, good observation and client assessment skills, tact and empathy.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work professionally and effectively with very difficult/at-risk clients.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team and to proactively manage and resolve conflict.
• Ability to promote positive change and independence.
• Ability to prioritize and organize workload.
• Ability to carry out the duties of the position.
• Ability to foster good public relations.
• Ability to operate a personal computer with a variety of windows‑based software and other office equipment.

This posting is for the Single Session Walk in Service at the Western Communities MHSU HUB. The primary responsibility is to provide Brief Solution Focused counselling for same day appointments. Assessment and referral to specialized services is also part of this role.