Temporary Counsellor II

Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Status: Temporary Full Time (up to 12 months)
Classification: B
Salary: $32.66 – $39.77/hour (Bachelor’s level) – per OPSEU Local 684 Collective Agreement
Reports To: Program Supervisor

About CMHA Algoma

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Algoma Branch (CMHA Algoma) is a community‑based mental health and addictions agency committed to improving the well‑being of individuals and families throughout the Algoma District. Guided by our mission, vision, and values of respect, integrity, and compassion, we deliver a broad range of programs and services to meet diverse community needs.

Position Summary

The Counsellor provides therapeutic services that promote improved symptom management, stronger interpersonal relationships, and enhanced capacity for clients to realize personal goals and participate fully in the community. Services are delivered to individuals, couples, and groups using a range of evidence‑based, trauma‑informed modalities.

Working as part of the Counselling Team, the Counsellor provides prevention, assessment, referral, clinical counselling, and follow‑up services for individuals and family members affected by mental health and substance use concerns.

All duties are carried out in alignment with the mission, vision, and values of CMHA Algoma, relevant legislation and regulations, and agency policies to ensure the delivery of high‑quality, client‑centered services.

Counsellors may work across one or more of the following areas:

• Mental Health Counselling: Individual, client‑centered therapy addressing issues related to serious mental illness and/or concurrent disorders.
• Substance Use Counselling: Individual counselling addressing substance‑related disorders and related behaviours using harm reduction and recovery‑focused approaches.
• General Counselling: Brief, solution‑focused psychotherapy for adults, couples, or groups.
• Family Counselling: Counselling for family members or significant others impacted by a loved one’s mental health or addiction.
• Crisis Counselling: Immediate, short‑term, goal‑oriented intervention for individuals in acute emotional distress or crisis. Emphasizes stabilization, safety planning, de‑escalation, and linkage to ongoing supports within CMHA Algoma or community partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage clients and conduct comprehensive assessments to identify strengths, needs, and goals.
• Deliver therapeutic interventions using evidence‑based modalities (e.g., CBT, motivational interviewing, solution‑focused therapy).
• Provide crisis intervention, stabilization, and safety planning as required.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and community partners to support coordinated care.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation consistent with professional standards and agency policy.
• Advocate for clients and contribute to reducing systemic barriers to mental health and addiction services.
• Participate in program evaluation, team meetings, and quality improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

Education and Certification

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) required; Master’s level in a related field preferred.
• Current registration in good standing with OCSWSSW or a regulated health profession under the RHPA (mandatory).
• ASIST and CPI certification (or willingness to obtain within 3 months).

Experience

• Minimum 3 years’ experience providing counselling in mental health and/or addictions settings, preferably in community‑based environments.
• Demonstrated experience conducting bio‑psychosocial assessments and using therapeutic modalities such as CBT.
• Experience delivering single‑session and brief therapy interventions.
• Knowledge of community resources and harm reduction strategies.
• Familiarity with accreditation standards and quality improvement processes in community mental health settings.
• Experience working within trauma‑informed, anti‑oppressive, and recovery‑oriented frameworks.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of mental health and addictions systems, community supports, and standardized assessment tools.
• Ability to apply recovery‑oriented, strength‑based, and anti‑oppressive practices in all client interactions.
• Sound clinical judgment with the ability to develop and communicate effective therapeutic plans.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries, manage emotional regulation, and respond with empathy and professionalism in challenging situations.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and advocacy skills to build relationships and collaborate with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and critical thinking skills in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in electronic documentation and commonly used software applications.
• Commitment to self‑care, ethical practice, and continuous professional growth.

Additional Requirements

• Satisfactory Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check (maintained throughout employment).
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle, with proof of insurance.
• Bilingualism (English/French) considered an asset.

Why Join CMHA Algoma

• A supportive and collaborative workplace culture grounded in respect and inclusivity.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package, including participation in HOOPP.
• Opportunities for professional growth, development, and leadership impact within the community mental health sector.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and resume here detailing their qualifications and experience no later than Friday December 19, 2025 at 4pm.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Additional Information

This is a bargaining unit position. Internal candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and requirements will be given priority consideration before external applicants.

CMHA Algoma is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to providing accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).