MHSU Indigenous Access & Crisis Response Counsellor Location: Pembroke Street Mental Health - MSHU (PSMH) – Victoria, BC V8T 1J5 CA (Primary) Job Description In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority (Island Health), patient and staff safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone; therefore, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position. Under the direction of the Clinical Coordinator or a designated person, this role works within the organization’s framework and standards, a rehabilitation/recovery harm reduction focused model. The MHSU Indigenous Access & Crisis Response Counsellor is a member of a multidisciplinary team and collaborates 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, and 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 required, and transportation arrangements must meet the operational requirements of Island Health. Qualifications Education, Training and Experience 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. Minimum two (2) years of experience working within or with Indigenous communities, including recent experience in areas requiring an understanding of trauma in the context of Indigenous people. Understanding of mental health and alcohol and drug addiction issues, psychiatric and suicide/homicide risk assessments, psychiatric and addiction treatment methodologies, crisis intervention and response techniques and strategies, the change process, community dynamics, and knowledge of available programs and services and their interrelationships. Knowledge of applicable legislation such as the Mental Health Act, Child Protection legislation, and the Adult Guardianship Act. Be a person of Indigenous ancestry. Valid BC Driver’s License. Skills and Abilities Ability to work within VIHA’s framework and standards within a rehabilitation/recovery, harm reduction focused model. Interpersonal and clinical skills, including crisis intervention, stabilization, de‑escalation and brief psychotherapy. Knowledge of support services and resources within the relevant geography available for Indigenous clients. Knowledge of the significance of culture in relation to individual, family and community health services. Basic knowledge of health and wellness services available on Vancouver Island for Indigenous clients (First Nation, Métis, Inuit). Understanding of Canadian colonization, Indigenous‑specific racism and its impact on the current health and wellness of Indigenous Peoples. Knowledge of the significance to provision of culturally safe health care engagements and environments for Indigenous Peoples. Organizational, problem‑solving and teaching skills. Judgment, good observation and client assessment skills, tact and empathy. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Professional and effective work with very difficult/at‑risk clients. Collaborative teamwork with a multidisciplinary team and proactive conflict management. Ability to promote positive change and independence. Prioritization and workload organization. Perform duties of the position. Foster good public relations. Operate a personal computer with a variety of Windows‑based software and other office equipment. #J-18808-Ljbffr