Position Description

This position works on behalf of the Haven Toronto Program in an interagency, multi-disciplinary Crisis Outreach Service for Seniors with mental health and addiction issues. This service is offered through a partnership between Woodgreen, Haven Toronto/St. Michael’s Homes, South Riverdale Community Health Centre, Reconnect Community Health Services and LOFT Community Services with the goal of ensuring a continuum of care for seniors with mental health and substance use issues. The Crisis Worker performs a range of activities including providing crisis supports, visiting clients in their homes or other community locations with a partner, assessing client needs, developing and implementing service plans, providing short-term intensive case management to a caseload of seniors living with cognitive, mental health, and substance use issues, ongoing assessment, supportive counselling, service navigation, eviction prevention and other supports as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated experience working with vulnerable seniors Knowledge of issues related to addiction, concurrent disorder, mental health, and other health issues. Knowledge and understanding of community housing, addiction and mental health services. Knowledge of the spectrum of approaches to substance use, with a focus on harm reduction. Demonstrated experience with eviction prevention/rehousing. Proven experience in providing crisis intervention, case management, and other social supports. Strong Assessment Skills. Proficiency in the use of Client Management Systems, as well as general computer proficiency. Extensive knowledge and skills in building rapport, assessment, supportive counseling, case management and brief-intervention. Knowledge of the social determinants of health. Knowledge, understanding and sensitivity to the complexity of issues arising for individuals who have experienced homelessness, addictions, poverty and/or mental illness. Ability to work collaboratively within and across interdisciplinary teams and community partners. Ability to work with clients presenting with a wide range of addiction and mental health issues. Demonstrated flexibility, sound judgment, initiative and creativity. Experience working within an anti-oppression and trauma informed framework. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Qualifications

University degree OR equivalent education and related work experience required. Experience in addiction or mental health counselling an asset. Additional training in screening, assessment and treatment related to addictions an asset. Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and statutory holidays required. Ability to work in a language in addition to English is a definite asset.