Malahat Nation
110 Thunder Road | Mill Bay, BC| V8H 1B8
Tel: (250) 743-3231 | Fax (250) 743-3251
info@malahatnation.com| www.malahatnation.com
Mental Health & Addictions Support Worker
REPORTS TO: Director of Health
START: June 2025
COMPENSATION: $64,105.56 - $66,028.73 per annum (NEE: 18)
$69,742.82 - $71,835.11 per annum (NEE: 21)
* the above rates subject to education and/or experience or a combination of both.
STATUS: 1 - Fulltime Permanent
35-hours per week
Malahat Nation represents approximately 350+ members with two reserve lands located on the western shore of Saanich Inlet, south of the village of Mill Bay, about 40 kilometres north of Victoria, British Columbia. Malahat Health operates in a new building with a dedicated team to provide physical and mental health services to community members. Malahat Nation is seeking a Mental Health & Addictions Support Worker that is passionate about health, well-being, and social determinants of health. This position is ideal for you if you are an innovator able to engage in the community and you have a strong desire to make a difference in our community.
Our staff are offered a pension and benefits plan, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
PURPOSE: Reporting to the Health Director, the Mental Health & Addictions Support Worker will play a vital role in developing and implementing a community-based addiction prevention, intervention, and education program. This position involves working closely with individuals, families, and the community to promote wellness, healing, and recovery. This position is a fulltime permanent position that works in the office, with minimal local travel as required.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assessment and Case Management:
- Conduct comprehensive assessments to identify the needs and strengths of individuals seeking support for alcohol and drug-related issues.
- Develop individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients, incorporating cultural traditions and values.
- Provide ongoing case management to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to treatment plans.
- Referrals to treatment, coordinate with patient travel in assisting client's transportation barriers.
- Community reintegration planning to assist in supporting within community for long term recovery.
- Coordinate with other departments with accessing supports within the community through a client centered lens.
Counseling and Support:
- Offer culturally appropriate counseling and support services to individuals and their families through a trauma informed lens.
- Facilitate group therapy sessions and educational workshops on addiction, recovery, and related topics.
- Maintain a safe and trauma informed environment for clients to share their experiences and concerns.
- Coordinate with medical taxi and FNHA in transporting clients to and from treatment.
Prevention and Education:
- Design and deliver community programs and workshops on alcohol and drug abuse prevention, such as the Wellbriety program or an AA program.
- Raise awareness about the risks associated with substance abuse and promote healthy alternatives.
- Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and local leaders to implement prevention initiatives.
Cultural Competency:
- Respect and incorporate Indigenous cultural practices, traditions, and values into all aspects of service delivery.
- Work closely with Elders and traditional healers to integrate cultural healing practices into treatment plans.
Documentation, Reporting and Compliance:
- Maintain accurate and confidential client records, including progress notes, treatment plans, referrals and assessments.
- Incorporate a client centred approach with the treatment planning.
- Compliance with the Malahat Nation Financial Administration Law and Malahat Nation policies, including the Human Resources Policy.
- Prepare monthly reports as required by funding agencies and regulatory bodies.
Advocacy and Outreach:
- Advocate for improved access to addiction treatment services within Indigenous communities.
- Collaborate with community partners and agencies to enhance resources and support for addiction prevention and treatment.
Other duties as required.
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse or Certified Addiction Counselor, Social Work or certificate specializing in addiction counseling, or a related field.
- Criminal Records Check (CRC) including Vulnerable Sector is required.
- Valid BC Driver’s Licence, provide a satisfactory driver’s abstract, and have access to a reliable vehicle is required.
- Valid First Aid is required.
- Effective December 3, 2021 full vaccination against COVID-19 is required to be eligible for employment at Malahat Nation. All individuals must show Proof of Vaccination as a condition of their employment.
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
- Certification in ASIST or related training an asset.
- Experience working in an Indigenous community and addressing substance abuse issues through a Trauma Informed lens is a significant asset.
- Experience working in a First Nations organization is an asset, and a willingness to learn and understand Indigenous and Coast Salish history, culture and traditions.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Strong cultural competency and understanding of Malahat traditions, history, and contemporary issues.
- The Mental Health & Addictions Support Worker (NNADP) maintains strict confidentiality in performing their duties and demonstrates the following personal attributes: respect, empathy, strength, pride and equality.
- Empathy, compassion, and excellent communication skills to establish trust and rapport with community members of diverse backgrounds and age groups.
- Knowledge of available social services, government programs, and resources relevant to the Malahat community.
- Knowledge and understanding of the Truth and Reconciliation 94 calls to action, UNDRP legislation and the Residential School era of the intergenerational traumas impacts to Indigenous peoples and their communities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Strong organizational skills.
- Time management with the ability to multitask different tasks simultaneously.
- Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suites programs.
- Must be willing to travel when necessary and also work outside of normal business hours when requested (including being on call when requested).
Interested applicants are invited to submit a detailed cover letter, current resume, and three references.
Please clearly indicate the ‘Job Title’ in the ‘Subject Line’ upon submitting.
Human Resources Department, Malahat Nation
In person, fax 250-743-3251 or via email
Email: careers@malahatnation.com
Website: https://malahatnation.com/jobs/
Deadline: Recruitment Open Until Position Filled.