Mental Health Case Worker; Durham Region

VHA Home Health Care (VHA) is one of the largest not-for-profit home care providers in Ontario. Our team is made up of close to 3,000 caring and committed professionals who love what they do. Our providers tell us: "Home care is where I can truly make a difference. There is such a sense of accomplishment from helping people live independently at home."

Our teams work together to provide high quality, client-centred care to those who need it most in their homes, schools, retirement homes and other community settings. Many of our team members manage their own schedules in the community and they say, "The freedom and flexibility can't be beat." Providers form meaningful bonds with the clients and families they serve over time and are supported by a diverse regional team and beneficial home office programs.

Team members tell us "I love the inclusive culture. I feel welcome and at home."

Base Salary: $46,000.00 - $57,000.00 (commensurate with experience)

The Mental Health Case Worker is responsible for providing direct hands-on support to clients in their home by using a harm reduction, client-centered, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed approach. The Mental Health Case Worker will carry a case load of clients that are experiencing a range of challenges such as risk of homelessness, living in poverty, with mental health, substance use, hoarding behaviors, trauma, social isolation, immigration, unemployment/underemployment and/or history with the criminal justice system.

This position focuses on helping clients achieve housing stability, enhance their well-being, and build the skills necessary to live independently in the community.

• Provide long-term clinical case coordination services to complex population of clients experiencing mental health, addictions, disabilities, and/or hoarding behaviors in collaboration with the client's care team.
• Establish appropriate use of cleared living spaces for intended purposes as negotiated with client and helping the client learn new skills in maintaining a healthy environment.
• Link client to appropriate services/resources in the community as part of the discharge planning.
• Conduct assessment of home support needs amongst program participants and collaborate with modified cleaners to support the process and execute the specific care plan need.
• Implement and execute service plans steps created by or in collaboration with Supervisor and clients.
• Assist clients to achieve housing stabilization through problem solving associated with high-risk indicators endangering clients' mental and physical health and work towards creating a healthy and safe environment.

• Degree or diploma in a health-related field, such as Social Work/Social Service, Psychology, Nursing, Occupational Therapist, Addictions Counselling or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
• At least two year's clinical experience working in the community and providing case coordination services to vulnerable clients that have been homeless, living in poverty, with mental health, substance use, hoarding behaviours, trauma, social isolation, immigration, unemployment/underemployment and/or with history with the criminal justice system.
• Utilizes an evidence base to clinical practice and possesses excellent consultation and teaching skills.
• Proven ability to work from a client centered and harm reduction approach and has excellent problem-solving, conflict resolution skills, crisis intervention techniques and uses a solution-focused approach.
• Familiar with the routine use of valid and reliable outcome measures to support clinical interventions.
• Strong knowledge of community social and health services and established contacts with other agencies an asset.
• Highly motivated self-starter who takes initiative, is results-oriented and able to prioritize and work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task, stay on track with expected deliverables, and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office and ability to learn VHA's client management software system.
• Must have a valid Ontario driver's license, access to a vehicle and willingness to travel across the Durham Region.

• Benefits and pension plan for permanent eligible employees.
• Compensation for education and professional development.
• VHA is a leading learning organization so we can provide you with comprehensive orientation and training at the start and throughout your career.
• Mentorship and peer support.
• Career development opportunities.
• Employee and family assistance program.
• Wellness resources.
• Perks & discounts.
• Staff & service provider events.
• Accommodation and VHA.