Behavioural Therapist

The Behavioral Therapist for Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) clients in supportive housing provides individualized therapeutic interventions to residents with acquired brain injuries. The Behavioural Therapist role is to assist clients in achieving greater independence and improving their quality of life by addressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges resulting from their injuries.

Responsibilities

1. Conduct comprehensive behavioral assessments of clients with acquired brain injuries to identify emotional, cognitive, and behavioral needs.
   1. Collaborate with medical professionals, case managers, and families to gather information on the client’s medical history, treatment plan, and progress.
   2. Develop individualized treatment goals based on assessment results and client needs.
2. Behavioral Interventions:
   1. Design and implement evidence-based therapeutic interventions tailored to address the specific cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges faced by clients.
   2. Utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and other therapeutic techniques to help clients manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, impulsivity, aggression, and social difficulties.
   3. Work on behavior modification strategies to improve client self-regulation, interpersonal interactions, and daily functioning.
   4. Provide therapy and interventions within the supportive housing setting, assisting clients in adjusting to living independently or semi-independently.
   5. Ensure that the interventions are aligned with the supportive housing environment’s goals, promoting social integration, life skills development, and community participation.
   6. Collaborate with housing staff to address behavioral and emotional concerns within the residential setting.
3. Skill Development:
   1. Facilitate the development of coping strategies, problem-solving skills, and adaptive behaviors for clients to manage the challenges they face in everyday life.
   2. Support clients in enhancing their social skills, communication abilities, and daily living activities, with a focus on increasing independence.
4. Family and Caregiver Support:
   1. Provide psychoeducation and support to families, caregivers, and other significant individuals in the client's life.
   2. Assist families and caregivers in understanding the impact of ABI on behavior and functioning and offer guidance on how to support their loved one effectively.
   3. Offer family therapy sessions when appropriate, promoting positive relationships and reducing caregiver stress.
5. Collaboration and Coordination:
   1. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including case managers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, and medical professionals, to ensure integrated care for the client.
   2. Participate in team meetings and case reviews, providing input on treatment planning and progress.
   3. Maintain open communication with housing staff, ensuring clients' behavioral and emotional needs are met in the supportive housing setting.
6. Documentation and Reporting:
   1. Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical records for each client in Salus client management software (EMHware).
   2. Document treatment goals, progress, interventions, and outcomes in accordance with agency policies and regulatory requirements.
   3. Prepare reports and progress summaries for clients, families, and funding agencies as required.
7. Crisis Management:
   1. Respond to behavioral crises as they arise, providing de-escalation techniques and ensuring client safety.
   2. Develop and implement safety plans for clients at risk of harm to themselves or others.
8. Training and Development:
   1. Stay informed of the latest research and developments in the field of acquired brain injury and behavioral therapy.
   2. Participate in ongoing professional development and training to enhance therapeutic skills and knowledge.
   3. Provide training or consultation to staff members on behavioral health issues related to ABI clients.

Qualifications

1. Master’s degree in Applied Behaviour Analysis, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.
2. Ongoing registration with the College of Psychologists and Behavior Analysts of Ontario, or eligibility and willingness to complete registration is required.
3. Three (3) years experience working with individuals with acquired brain injuries or neurological conditions is highly desirable.
4. One (1) year experience in working within a supportive housing or community-based program setting is a plus.
5. Experience conducting behavioural assessments and creating individualized goal plans.
6. Valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle.

Knowledge

1. Knowledge of ABI, neuropsychological rehabilitation, and evidence-based behavioral therapies.
2. Knowledge of various therapeutic techniques.
3. Knowledge of applicable legislation, policies, and regulations relevant to behaviour analysis and healthcare services in Ontario.
4. Knowledge of community resources for individuals with mental health & addictions.
5. Knowledge of computer software applications such as Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook, SharePoint) and client management software (EMHware).
6. Knowledge of crisis and suicide intervention and prevention.

Skills

1. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
2. Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
3. Crisis management skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
4. Flexibility and the ability to adapt therapeutic approaches to suit individual client needs.
5. Ability to take initiative in independent practice, organizing and prioritizing tasks.
6. Excellent written communication and ability to keep up to date documentation.
7. Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to assess situations, identify key issues, and implement effective solutions.
8. Strong ability to collect, analyze, and interpret behavioral data to assess intervention effectiveness.
9. Proficiency in using a client management software to effectively track and manage client interactions and keeping detailed records.
10. Promotes the values of Salus.
11. Effectively de-escalates and solves crisis.
12. Establishes good working relationships across Salus, with external partners, clients, and families.
13. Commitment to work and life-long learning.
14. Passionate about making a meaningful difference in clients lives, especially in terms of improving behaviour, social functioning, and overall well-being.

Language Requirements

This position requires full proficiency in English. Bilingualism is considered an asset (English/French).

Pre-Hire Requirements

1. Academic Certificates
2. Criminal reference check (Vulnerable Sector Check)
3. Eligibility to work in Canada
4. Valid drivers’ license and use of own vehicle with appropriate insurance is required.
5. Proof that the successful candidate has received both doses of a Health Canada approved COVID 19 vaccine at least 14 days before the first day of work, subject always to Ottawa Salus’ duty to accommodate under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Why Work at Ottawa Salus?

Salus has a proven record of successfully supporting clients with serious and persistent mental health and addictions illness to live their best possible life. Regardless of their role in the organization, our staff are passionate about their work and supporting clients on their journey to recovery. They know they have an impact on their client’s lives and consistently report that working here is a fulfilling experience. If you are someone that wants to make the world a better place and bring hope to others, you will love working here.

All that, plus we offer:

• Generous Health benefits and pension plan
• Compressed work week
• Flexible work start and end times
• A friendly team who create a great work environment