Family Support Worker

Salary:                        $27.09 – $ 33.47 per hour              Reports to: Clinical Supervisor

Status:                         Temporary, Full Time (Until March 31, 2024)

Location:                    Sault Ste. Marie                              Reference #: IACS-0608-01

Posting Date:            June 8, 2023                                     Closing Date: June 15, 2023 @ 4:30 pm

 JOB SUMMARY:

Applying an Indigenous perspective, strength-based, and family centered approach, the Family Support Worker, in collaboration with Garden River Wellness Centre (GRWC) and Algoma Family Services (AFS), and other community partners, will support the development and implementation of the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) Innovation Pilot Project.  The goal of the OAP funded Innovation Pilot Project is to bridge both Western and Indigenous world views in the process of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment implementation for children and youth with a suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other mental health needs. As a collaboration between GRWC and AFS, this project seeks to draw on the skills and knowledge of an Elder/Knowledge Keeper(s), GRWC staff, and members of the AFS team (e.g., psychologist, psychometrist) to develop an assessment model and treatment planning tools that are culturally relevant and locally driven.   The Family Support Worker will service Garden River and Sault Ste. Marie.

The purpose of this position is to two-fold; 1) to support the development and implementation of the OAP Innovation Pilot Project (e.g., schedule meetings, community events, liaise with stakeholders, document the developmental process, etc.), and 2) to support families through the assessment and treatment planning process (e.g., gathering information, providing systems navigation, advocate for families, provide supportive counselling, etc.). The Family Support Worker will collaborate with GRWC and AFS clinical services staff and will utilize their extensive knowledge of AFS, community, regional, and provincial resources to ensure there is a coordinated service approach.

Minimum Education/Registration

  • Bachelor of Social Work preferred
  • Minimum BA or College Diploma in related field required
  • Current registration and in good standing with regulated professional college an asset

Minimum Experience

  • Two years’ experience working in a related field preferred
  • Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Preference for Bachelor’s degree in social sciences with (2) or more year’s professional experience in children’s mental health or related field, or a Child and Youth Care Practitioner or Social Service Worker Diploma with five (5) years’ experience working with children, youth and families, or the equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.  Current registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers or College of Psychotherapists of Ontario in good standing is an asset.
    • Educational focus on Indigenous culture preferred
  • Equivalent combinations of training and experience may be considered
  • Extensive knowledge of First Nations, Metis and Inuit culture, traditions and teachings to provide culturally competent services
  • Extensive knowledge of local, regional, and provincial ASD, mental health, and other services and resources.
  • Ability to form effective working relationships with community partners and interdisciplinary teams inside and outside of the pilot project.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of strength-based clinical intervention models.
  • Possess a high degree of clinical judgement and able to manage expectations of others in a diplomatic and supportive manner.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with children, youth and families
  • Negotiate effectively on behalf of the client and family, with collateral agencies, at the systems level to ensure the right services at the right time and place.
  • Ability to construct and write clear, concise notes and other documentation, with attention to detail.
  • Clear understanding of parameters of confidentiality and reporting responsibilities under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act, and Knowledge of pertinent legislation, such as, The Education Act, The Mental Health Act of Ontario, The Personal Health Information Protection Act, and the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
  • Proficiency with computer software especially Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc..
  • Possession of a valid Ontario Driver’s License with the ability to travel and use a personal insured vehicle for business purposes.
  • Availability to work flexible hours including evenings and occasional weekends across various settings (school, home, office, community).

 

     DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:       

  1. Maintain the confidentiality of our clients and client information at all times, as per GRWC and AFS policies and procedures.
  2. Develop, foster, and maintain close working relationships with pilot project stakeholders (e.g., GRWC, AFS, Elders/Knowledge Keepers, families and clients, etc.).
  3. Serve in a coordination role for the pilot project.
  4. Provide information about the project and gather intake information from interested families.
  5. Act as a case manager and provide support to families throughout the assessment process.
  6. Assist families with referrals, funding applications and any following any recommendations that come as a result of the assessment.
  7. As part of the pilot project, participate in the development and design of innovative treatment options by making service recommendations, based on extensive knowledge of local, regional, and provincial services.
  8. Serve an integral role in the evolution of the pilot project, and its documentation, outcome assessment, and knowledge translation activities.
  9. To possess an understanding of required legislation governing practice, such as the Psychotherapy Act; also, to fulfill the professional “Duty to Report” any suspected child abuse as required under the Child, Youth and Family Services Case management and Service coordination.
  10. Other duties as assigned.

PLEASE SEND YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO HUMAN RESOURCES QUOTING FILE IACS-0608-01 to hr@algomafamilyservices.org

This position falls within the bargaining unit represented by the OPSEU.

Algoma Family Services (AFS) encourages applications from all qualified candidates. AFS has a great record for accommodating persons with disabilities. Job candidates are encouraged to contact Human Resources, if they require accommodation at any stage of the application process, or want more information on our accommodation policies.

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