OPSEU

Job Title: Residential Secondary - PT Counsellor
Status: Regular Part Time
Department: Residential - Sims
Program: Durham Mental Health Services
8 Hour Shifts, days, evenings, weekends Schedule (Subject to Change)
Location: Lakeridge Health Durham Mental Health Services
Wage Schedule: $25.560 - $27.250 per hour
Posting Reference: 2600001216

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 12 May 2026 and closing at 11:59 pm on 20 May 2026.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide daily support to residents within the Housing Program

• assist clients as they learn necessary life skills to progress to greater level of independence and attain their stated goals

• direct and assist in development of daily life skills (ex. Housekeeping, laundry, household safety, meal planning and preparation, groceries, personal hygiene, personal budgeting, etc.)

• conduct regular safety checks and fire drills to ensure compliance with house safety rules

• assist in developing client's social skills, conflict resolution and problem-solving

• assist client in accessing community resources and encourage participation in meaningful activities (ex. Day programs, educational or vocational activities, etc.)

• encourage clients to keep scheduled appointments and transport within the community as needed

• 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 Residential program

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Diploma or degree from an accredited College or University in the Human Services field

• One year of related work experience

• 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 mental health, addiction and sexual abuse issues.

• Basic knowledge of the major mental illnesses, and an understanding of the Mental Health Act, confidentiality, and the principles of client centred service delivery.

• Knowledge of the principles of life skills training, focused problem solving and intervention strategies.

• Provide support to residents, modeling a positive attitude, utilizing affirmation and encouragement while integrating recovery concepts and client empowerment.

• Provide education on a variety of issues relevant to the client group. Provide life skills training, conflict resolution, and advocacy.

• Demonstrated reliability (attendance and punctuality), communication skills and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as a team member.

• Must demonstrate a strong professional manner in dealing with clients, staff, families, and the public while being open, friendly, approachable, accepting and understanding.

• Strong attention to detail and confidentiality. Ability to work well under pressure.

• Must possess well developed client boundaries, communication, organizational, time management and coordination skills.

• Functional knowledge of crisis intervention and assessment techniques required.

• 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.