Addictions Counsellor​/Case Management; Youth

Join us at Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC) and become a catalyst for change in the lives of individuals navigating the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges. This is more than a job—it's a chance to make a real difference in your community and to grow with a team that values your expertise and passion.

About Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC):

PAARC is a notable not-for-profit charitable organization funded by the Ministry of Health, through Ontario Health Central Region. With full accreditation from the Canadian Centre for Accreditation, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive services to those dealing with alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming, and various behavioral dependencies, alongside supporting mental health challenges. Our commitment to a diverse, inclusive workplace and a person-centered approach underlines our services and team ethos.

About the role

As an Addictions Counsellor/Case Manager , you will be integral part of PAARC's Community Withdrawal Management Program - Transitional Age Youth (age 16-24) . The program supports youth to develop a support system that enhances awareness and skill building by collaborating with other resources to provide vocational supports and youth-specific addictions residential treatment. This role requires a dedicated individual who can work as part of a multidisciplinary team, committed to PAARC's mission and values.

We are hiring for one (1) full-time, contract role (2 years) working at our office in Mississauga and within the community.

Benefits included:
Mileage reimbursement, group health/dental plan, LTD/life insurance, EAP, remote work one day per week in line with our policy, professional development opportunities

What you'll do

• Conduct intake, screening and comprehensive withdrawal management screening using appropriate tools and methods to ensure the eligibility and ongoing needs of applicants.
• Assess home environments to support the client's withdrawal process within the community.
• Develop evidence-informed care plans with clients, including holistic crisis and communication plans
• Provide ongoing supportive counselling and case management, including assessment, referral, aftercare, and discharge, while effectively managing a defined caseload.
• Facilitate structured content and process groups, utilizing technology to improve access and care responsiveness.
• Respond to crisis situations with appropriate interventions and support clients in developing and understanding healthy boundaries.
• Engage in respectful advocacy, helping clients understand their treatment options and rights
• Maintain professional relationships with clients, following the Social Workers and Social Service Workers Code of Ethics
• Strong clinical skills in substance abuse withdrawal management, with the ability to perform brief psychosocial and risk assessments.
• Proficiency in non-violent crisis intervention techniques and CPR/First Aid.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to work empathetically with people from all socio-economic backgrounds, including marginalized/stigmatized populations.
• Critical thinking skills and the capacity to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Demonstrated knowledge of issues with withdrawal and a philosophy of substance abuse aligned with PAARC's philosophy.

Requirements

• Educational Background:
  Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field from an accredited institution or relevant education with commensurate experience.
• Experience:
  
  Specified minimum 2 years of relevant experience required. Knowledge of issues related withdrawal management an asset.
• Certifications:
  
  Current CPR and First Aid required; GAIN Q3 MI ONT Certification preferred.
• Counselling
  
  Skills:
  
  Strong evidence-based, trauma-informed counselling skills essential.
• Language
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in prevalent languages in the Region of Peel and French considered a strong asset.
• Transportation:
  Valid Ontario Driver’s License, insurance, and reliable vehicle required.

Working Conditions

• Office environment and community-based settings.
• Required travel…