OPSEU

Job Title: Crisis Secondary - Crisis Support Worker
Status: Temporary Part Time
Department: Crisis Beds
Program: Durham Mental Health Services
8 Hour Shifts, days, evenings, nights, weekends Schedule (Subject to Change)
Location: Lakeridge Health Durham Mental Health Services
Wage Schedule: $28.750 - $29.880 per hour
Posting Reference: 2600001246

Lakeridge Health is more than a hospital. It is a health network that includes five hospitals, a long-term care home, a community-based surgical centre, and more than 30 community sites across the Durham Region. Guided by our vision of One System. Best Health. and supported by a dedicated team of nearly 9,000 staff, physicians, and volunteers, Lakeridge Health is a place where the best people want to start, grow, and finish their careers in health care. We are focused on fostering an environment that’s inclusive, compassionate, innovative, and joyful. This is Lakeridge Health!

This position is open to all qualified OPSEU staff throughout Lakeridge Health commencing 14 May 2026 and closing at 11:59 pm on 22 May 2026.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with clients at on-site crisis locations and over the phone

• assist and support individuals with the resolution of emotional and personal crisis's

• complete comprehensive client assessment and service plan (identify needs and goals that are attainable and time-specific) - ensure client is integral in decision-making process

• work with Crisis Primary (Intervention Worker) to support clients in attaining goals

• complete risk assessment and environmental screen upon intake/contact

• carry out functions of psychosocial crisis intervention (supportive counselling and assist in implementing recovery plan)

• provide crisis intervention services through client's preferred environment

• encourage problem-solving, conflict resolution, harm reduction, relapse prevention, medication management, and applicable life skills (cooking, cleaning, accessing community transportation, hygiene, etc.)

• advocate on client's behalf when appropriate

• transport client within community when necessary

• develop discharge plans (including relapse prevention strategies and connection to continuous internal and external supports)

• maintain up-to-date client records on a timely basis and in accordance with agency standards

• report (in writing) all accidents, incidents, injuries

• work co-operatively as a member of the Crisis program

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Diploma or degree from an accredited College or University in the Human Services field
• 3 years of related work experience required (addictions experience preferred)
• Valid Food Handler Certificate (certificate can be obtained in a 1-day course and must be provided upon hire)
• Up-to-date First Aid certificate
• Valid driver's licence and use of a vehicle to transport clients. The successful candidate will be required to provide proof a valid driver's licence and $1 million dollar liability coverage upon hire
• Knowledge of major mental illnesses including; signs/symptoms, medication management etc., addictions and sexual abuse issues.
• Understanding of Mental Health Act and confidentiality, principles of client centered relationships. Thorough knowledge of key functions of case management including, local special resources and access to services.
• Understanding of intake function including assessment, decision-making, service plans, focused problem solving, crisis intervention and coping/stress management strategies.
• Understanding of methods of evaluating progress.
• Proven crisis intervention, de-escalation and listening skills with strong observational skills.
• Assessment skills and effective service plan development.
• Ability to engage and build rapport with individuals from a variety of cultural and social-economic backgrounds. Ability to process multi layered and complex psychosocial client dynamics appropriately and maintain healthy boundaries. Client centered and recovery focused.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and independently with minimal supervision, Strong time management and administrative skills.
• Ability to create a safe, comfortable environment for clients to work within.
• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality and attendance.
• Very good communication skills, both verbal and written. Professional, positive attitude.
• Demonstrated commitment to our core values of Inclusion, Compassion, Innovation, Teamwork and Joy;
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to Lakeridge Health's comprehensive safety programs and practices including staff, patient and environmental safety and participation in regular in-services in this area

At Lakeridge Health, we value inclusion and diversity. We are committed to fostering a culture that is respectful, inclusive, and accessible. We are committed to employing a workforce that is representative of the diverse community we provide services to and welcome applications from all qualified applicants from all backgrounds.

Accommodation will be provided in all parts of the recruitment and assessment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). If you require any accommodation at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact recruitment@lh.ca .

Unless specifically stated, all job postings at Lakeridge Health are to fill existing vacancies within our organization. Lakeridge Health may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools as part of the recruitment and screening process. A member of our Talent Acquisition team is actively engaged in the Recruitment and Selection process to ensure a fair and thorough assessment of applicants.

Lakeridge Health thanks all those who apply, however, only candidates considered for an interview will be contacted.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

The terms and conditions of employment are in accordance with the Collective Agreement between the Hospital and OPSEU Local 348.

Successful External applicants must provide a satisfactory Criminal Investigation Reference for the vulnerable sector, dated within the past six (6) months.

Lakeridge Health is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all team members and patients. New Lakeridge Health team members will be required to complete a Pre-employment Health Assessment as a condition of employment.