Mental Health & Addictions Worker 2 - Community

Within the context of a client and family centered care model and in accordance with the established vision and values of the organization, works as part of a multidisciplinary team with individuals with severe and persistent psychiatric illness. Participates in case planning with clients; interviews clients to identify problems and needs and works with clients and the Mental Health & Addictions team to develop a treatment care plan that emphasizes self-management strategies. Acts as an advocate to assist clients in resolving conflicts and other problems with external organizations. Observes client’s behaviour and symptoms, provides feedback regarding client’s needs, performance and progress. Provides supportive counselling, demonstrations, behavioural management to assist with the development of physical, social, emotional and life skills.

The HOpe Centre on the Lions Gate Hospital campus is the focal point for mental health services on the North Shore. Opened in 2014, the HOpe Centre hosts two mental health inpatient units alongside a range of community-based outpatient mental health services. The HOpe Centre has an on-site Blenz café, with additional shops and restaurants within walking distance, creating a welcoming and accessible environment for clients, families, and staff.

• Diploma in Community Social Service or completion of Mental Health Worker program plus two (2) years recent, related experience working with individuals with severe and persistent psychiatric illness or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Valid BC Drivers License. Local area travel may require the use of a personal vehicle.
• Valid CPR and First Aid certificates.

• Knowledge of the Mental Health Act as it applies to the rights and obligations of clients and staff.
• Knowledge of psychiatric medications and their side effects.
• Ability to demonstrate and assist clients with activities of daily living.
• Ability to take and record temperature, pulse and respiration on clients.
• Ability to resolve conflicts and provide crisis intervention.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both oral and written form (English).
• Ability to work independently and within a team setting.
• Ability to organize and prioritize.
• Ability to observe and recognize changes in clients.
• Ability to establish and maintain rapport with residents.
• Ability to analyze, make decisions, and resolve problems.
• Ability to instruct.
• Ability to operate related equipment.
• Physical ability to carry out duties of the position.

The hours of work including days off and work area may be subject to change consistent with operational requirements and the provision of the Collective Agreement and applicable statutes. Successful applicants may be required to complete a Criminal Records Review Check.As per Ministry of Health policy, all health care workers working in publicly-funded health care facilities are required to report their past receipt of certain vaccines or history of certain infections. Collecting these records will allow for offering of any missing vaccines, and for appropriate actions to be taken in the event of any future exposure to a communicable disease or during outbreaks. For all new hires and appointments to Vancouver Coastal Health, you will be asked to provide this information as part of the onboarding process.