Primary Counsellor

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

POSITION PURPOSE SUMMARY:

The purpose of the expectation task list is to identify and clarify what management expects from the incumbent. The

following expectations and tasks will be part of the annual performance appraisals; your merit increase will be based on

the level of performance in each of the following areas.

Expectations may change year to year and both parties should use the annual performance appraisal to determine realistic

and equitable goals and outcomes for the upcoming performance year.

WORKING RELATIONSHIP(S):

· Supervised by the Client Services Manager

EXPECTATIONS & TASK LIST:

1. Read and initial daily Communication Log as part of a team effort to coordinate the plan and progress of clients

2. Counsels clients/residents individually/in a group setting; develop and implement case management of assigned

clients/residents (i.e. regularly counsels in establishing goals, monitors progress and prepares discharge plan)

3. Presents case reports and progress of clients/residents at regularly scheduled case planning meetings; has input to

case management of client/resident through case management meetings

4. Maintains and updates all appropriate documentation related to clients/residents

5. Completes all reports/stats required by the Ministry and the Salvation Army

6. Refers clients to appropriate resources (internal and external) for the purpose of housing, employment, educational,

practical everyday needs and other recovery needs

7. Arrive 15 minutes prior to shift to receive verbal report and remain, when necessary, in crisis situation

8. Models appropriate behaviour; intervenes in crisis situations provides counselling, and advocates as required

9. Engages in the development of inter-personal relationships that promotes dignity and respect

10. Liaises with Police, Ministry, court personnel, community agencies, family and other staff members

11. Provides guidance and support to students and newly hired staff

12. Encourage client attendance to all ‘in house’ groups

13. Encourage clients in the maintenance of good personal hygiene, housekeeping skills, and general living skills

14. Provide motivational counselling by ensuring clients are fulfilling their responsibilities by abiding by the Centre’s Administration Criteria

15. Conduct ‘Crisis Counselling’ to outside clients when necessary

16. Assist Intake Worker by covering Front Desk during breaks and peak periods

17. Complete admission and discharge procedures as assigned and ensure recordings are in the appropriate places

18. Enforce Honeychurch Family Life Resource Centre House Expectations on a consistent and regular basis

19. Facilitate groups as assigned

20. Advocate for clients with outside agencies, services, and landlords

21. Conduct ‘On-Call Supervisor’ Responsibilities as scheduled

22. Respond to ‘in house’ Crisis Situation in an appropriate manner

23. Continually and regularly update self and follow through with all Centre Policy and Procedures

24. Performs other duties as assigned

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Conduct “Information Sessions and Facility Tours” as scheduled

2. Participate in Centre Planning sessions and other assigned tasks

3. Represent the Centre at “Public Speaking Engagements”, Community groups and other areas as requested

4. Actively involved in Supervision with Supervisor

5. Actively involved in on-going Professional Development

6. Attend Staff Meetings, Team Meetings, Case Planning Meetings and other scheduled meetings

7. Agree to sign the Confidentiality statement

8. Agree to sign all necessary Human Resources forms

9. Function as a member of a multi-disciplinary team

10. Adhere to standards that are consistent to the values and philosophy of The Salvation Army

11. Engage in formal Evaluations Sessions with Supervisor at three (3) month during first year of employment and annually thereafter.

12. Read and adhere to the Policy and Procedures Manual and the Employees Handbook.

13. Make suggestions that will improve efficiency, working conditions or procedures to Management.

14. Represent the organization in a professional manner and attitude.

PHYSICAL EFFORT/DEXTERITY REQUIRED:

· The performance of the job requires a moderate amount of keyboarding/manual record keeping, and occasionally walking/climbing stairs and standing.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

· The successful job applicant will have completed an Undergraduate University degree with a Bachelor of Social Work or equivalent experience with specialized training in woman abuse.

· Knowledge of violence against women and children and the effects

· Crisis intervention, problem solving and assessment skills

· Good written/oral communication skills · Ability to work independently, cooperatively as a team member

· Knowledge and understanding of, and a commitment to anti-racism and anti –oppression

· Ability to conduct group counselling

· Strong organizational skills

· Strong and supportive counselling skills

· Basic knowledge of community resources and/or how to access them

· Ability to work within a Christian perspective

· Possess a supportive, caring and non – judgmental approach to all clients

· Valid Class 'G' Driver's License

· Valid WHMIS and First Aid and CPR certification

The Salvation Army will accommodate candidates as required under applicable human rights legislation. If you require a disability-related accommodation during this process, please inform us of your requirements.

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $25.67 to $25.67 with a maximum of $25.67.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.