Addictions Counsellor 

Overview

Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society (KAFS) was established in 1972 and is a non-profit organization with a status free open-door policy. KAFS is dedicated to empowering the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities of Kamloops and surrounding areas. KAFS provides culturally appropriate programs and inclusive services that meet the needs of urban Indigenous people to become healthier, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

The Opportunity:

The Addictions Counsellor role is dedicated to providing substance use services tailored to the needs of Aboriginal individuals and families within the Kamloops community and surrounding areas, at KAFS. These services aim to address addiction challenges and emphasize prevention. This position focuses on assisting adults, elders, and youth aged 15 and above, including status, non-status Métis, Inuit, or two-spirited individuals, who are navigating addiction issues. Services are available to clients residing on and off reserves, including rural areas.

With a commitment to cultural sensitivity, the Addictions Counsellor employs a harm reduction approach. This approach is grounded in a bio-psychological theory framework while integrating cultural and spiritual practices. These practices may include ceremonies such as smudging and sweats, engagement with the medicine wheel, offerings and prayer, and drawing upon the wisdom of Elders and local traditional teachings.

Under the Supervision of the General Manager of the Kamloops Aboriginal Friendship Society. The Addictions Counsellor will deliver substance use services tailored to the needs of Aboriginal individuals and families experiencing addiction challenges or seeking preventive measures. The Addictions Counsellor will provide culturally appropriate direct services to enhance the health and well-being of Aboriginal people residing within the IH Authority region. An objective for this position is to reduce the health disparity among Aboriginal populations within the service area. This role will maintain an active caseload, offering direct client service to approximately 130 individuals annually, with a focus on supporting 55 clients concurrently.

A day in the life – roles and responsibilities:

• Conduct entry and exit services including screening, intake, referral, and one-month follow-up assessments.
• Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify client needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
• Collaborate with clients to establish achievable goals and strategies for recovery.
• Manage cases in collaboration with other service providers, ensuring coordination of care and access to necessary resources.
• Advocate for clients and provide ongoing support throughout the treatment process.
• Provide immediate support and intervention to clients experiencing acute emotional or physical distress.
• Assess and mitigate risks to ensure client safety and well-being.
• Conduct individual and small group counseling sessions, as well as marital and family counseling, utilizing evidence-based practices.
• Facilitate the Welbriety program, including 12-week closed group sessions held twice yearly.

• Educate the community on addiction prevention and treatment through workshops, presentations, and outreach activities.
• Offer one-to-one counseling sessions focused on alcohol and drug abuse prevention and intervention.
• Determine client appropriateness and eligibility for the program through thorough screening processes.
• Complete necessary alcohol and drug services forms in consultation with the client.
• Deliver educational workshops and information sessions to individuals and groups, promoting awareness and understanding of addiction issues.
• Work collaboratively with other professionals including social workers, probation officers, lawyers, and counselors to provide holistic support to clients.
• Act as a liaison between clients and external services, ensuring seamless coordination of care.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records, documenting progress, interventions, and outcomes.
• Generate Reports and Documentation: Prepare and submit monthly activity progress reports to the General Manager.
• Prepare and submit two final activity reports to the funding agency, summarizing program achievements and client outcomes.
• Maintain accurate records of client assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, and discharge summaries in accordance with organizational and regulatory standards.
• Utilize the Addictions Information Management System (AIMS) for client information reporting as required by regulatory guidelines.
• Facilitate referrals by directing clients or general inquiries to appropriate agencies, resource persons, or support systems.
• Engage in consultation with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and colleagues to ensure comprehensive and quality care for clients.
• Adhere to mandatory reporting requirements outlined by regulatory agencies and governing bodies.
• Conduct regular review and updating of client records to ensure accuracy and completeness.
• Other related duties as assigned or required.

Requirements – what you bring to KAFS:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
• Certification or license as an Addictions Counselor preferred.
• Previous experience working in addiction counseling or related field.
• Strong understanding of addiction recovery principles and evidence-based treatment modalities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of local First Nations/Aboriginal cultures and communities including an understanding of Aboriginal health issues.
• Experience in completing reports to funding agents is preferred.
• Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and ethical guidelines governing addiction counseling practice.
• Ability to travel to alternate sites around the Kamloops area including, but not limited to, Urban Native Health Clinic, Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), and Probation, RCMP and/or First Nations Court (Cknucwentn).

Our must haves that make you great:

• Ability to empathize with clients’ struggles and demonstrate genuine care and concern for their well-being.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with clients, their families, and other professionals involved in their care.
• Capacity to listen attentively to clients, understand their perspectives, and validate their experiences without judgment.
• Ability to remain calm and composed during crisis situations, providing immediate support and intervention as needed to ensure client safety.
• Proficiency in conducting thorough assessments to identify clients’ needs and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to their goals and circumstances.
• Knowledge and application of various counseling modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care, to facilitate clients’ recovery journey.
• Proficient in coordinating and integrating services from various providers to meet clients’ holistic needs and demonstrates effectiveness in collaborating within a multidisciplinary team setting.
• Ability to identify barriers to recovery and collaboratively develop strategies with clients to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
• Adherence to ethical guidelines and professional standards in counseling practice, including maintaining confidentiality, respecting client autonomy, and avoiding conflicts of interest.
• Understanding and respect for cultural and spiritual beliefs and practices, integrating these aspects into counseling interventions where appropriate.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate and organized client records, including progress notes, treatment plans, and outcome measures, in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Awareness of the emotional demands of the job and commitment to engaging in self-care practices to maintain personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Preference will be given to applicants of Aboriginal ancestry as per section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code (please self-identity in your cover letter).