Addictions Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Salary :

Why join CMHA Kenora?

We are a team committed to our vision of mental health support for all. We offer an inclusive, innovative, and high-performance work culture that helps us deliver transformational impact. The organization cares about the growth, safety and well-being of employees and offers :

Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)

Comprehensive Health Benefits

o Employee & Family Assistance Program

Paid Vacation Days

Learning & professional development opportunities

Employer : CMHA Kenora Branch

Job Title : Addictions Specialist

Work Location : Safe Bed Program

Employment Status : Full-Time, Permanent

For more information, please visit

Deadline to apply : January 6th, 2026

Overview :

This member of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch works alongside a team of professionals whose focus is safety, stability and support for individuals in a mental health crisis who are in immediate contact with police but not suitable for incarceration or admission to the hospital. The Addictions Specialist has the clinical skill and experience to assess, plan, develop, coordinate, connect and support services to program clients. The Addictions Specialist will participate in screening, assessment and coordination of recovery plans specific to addiction related needs of clients. Development of the recovery plan will be coordinated with the client and the team. This position reports directly to the Safe Program Team Lead and Chief Executive Officer.

Qualifications :

BSW preferred, or demonstrated equivalent

Registered or eligible for registration in a regulated health profession eligible under the Psychotherapy Act of Ontario

3 to 5 years of experience in addiction services with in-depth knowledge of complex clinical issues

Demonstrate skills in conducting interview, screening and assessment of needs and mental status

Knowledge of mental health / illness and mental health difficulties and treatment modalities

Assessment, Treatment and Evaluation skills

Ability to work collaboratively with clients, team colleagues, and community stakeholders

Ability to participate side by side with individuals to accomplish tasks, develop meaningful activities

Ability to carry out and model activities of daily living

Cultural Competence for diverse populations

Working knowledge of community resources and agencies

Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Computer literacy and recording skills

Able to work flexible hours

Valid Drivers License

Criminal Records Check

Certification in CPR and First Aid

Ability to manage conflict and crisis situations

Duties :

Adherence to all policies of the CMHA Kenora Branch including assurance of confidentiality of all client, personnel and organizational records and information

Maintenance of professional qualifications and registration

Maintenance of clients files and data files including updating of client information consistent with policies and procedures of CMHA Kenora Branch

Provide addiction related support services, crisis support and counselling

Thorough screening and assessment of client needs related to substance use and development of appropriate recovery plans

Psycho-education regarding substance use and harm reduction

Facilitate and monitor the implementation of client recovery plans

Complete relevant assessment tools around substance use and support clients with information and subsequent referrals to ongoing treatment and rehabilitation specific to substance use

Participate in regularly scheduled staff meetings and recovery plans

Participate in training and educational opportunities

Participate in administrative and office functions as needed

Provide a safe environment by ensuring adherences to workplace health and safety regulations and policies, infection control guidelines, WHMIS and Safe Work Procedures

Ensure client safety and client safety activities are emphasized throughout orientation of new staff members

Support an environment which avoids, prevents and corrects all activities or actions which may result in an adverse outcome in the delivery of mental health services

Re-assess goals / recovery plans, refine / continue intervention techniques as needed

Educate clients to identify early warning signs for substance use disorders and prepare to maintain changes

Facilitate development of self-management plan

Modify hours of work on an as needed basis to meet programming needs of the Residents

Responsible for self-care

Other duties as directed

How to Apply :

Please submit your cover letter and resume to :

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.

Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.