FASD Social Worker

POSITION SUMMARY

The FASD Clinic Social Worker is a key member of the interdisciplinary Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) diagnostic and support team. This role supports children, youth, adults, and families throughout the assessment, diagnosis, and follow-up process.

The Social Worker provides psychosocial assessments, care coordination, system navigation, advocacy, and culturally grounded supports to individuals impacted by FASD. The position plays a critical role in ensuring families feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their journey.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments as part of the FASD diagnostic process
• Gather collateral information from families, caregivers, schools, and community partners
• Contribute to interdisciplinary case conferences and diagnostic decision-making
• Support the development of individualized care plans and recommendations
• Provide counselling and ongoing emotional support to individuals and families
• Support caregivers in understanding FASD and implementing practical strategies
• Facilitate education related to FASD, trauma, attachment, and behavioural supports
• Ensure services are culturally safe, respectful, and responsive to Anishinabek values
• Coordinate referrals to internal and external services (health, education, social services, justice)
• Support access to funding, programs, and community resources
• Maintain strong working relationships with partner organizations
• Integrate traditional teachings, cultural practices, and ceremony where appropriate
• Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Cultural Practitioners (Shkaabewis)
• Support culturally grounded approaches to healing and family wellness
• Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in accordance with organizational standards
• Prepare assessment summaries, reports, and recommendations
• Ensure compliance with privacy legislation and ethical standards
• Participate in program planning, evaluation, and continuous quality improvement
• Support community outreach and education initiatives related to FASD awareness
• Contribute to policy and procedure development as required

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Social Work (BSW or MSW)
• Current registration and good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
• Minimum 2–3 years of relevant experience (pediatric, family, mental health, or community-based settings preferred)
• Experience working with FASD, neurodevelopmental conditions, or complex needs is an asset
• Knowledge of trauma-informed care, attachment theory, and harm reduction principles
• Demonstrated experience working with Anishinabek communities and culturally grounded approaches to care
• Strong assessment, counselling, and case management skills
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and advocacy skills
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as required

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is primarily conducted on-site at SKHC, with occasional travel within the community and partner locations
• Interaction with clients experiencing complex social, emotional, and health challenges
• Participation in case conferences, community meetings, and outreach activities

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Cultural humility and safety
• Relationship-building and trust development
• Critical thinking and clinical judgement
• Collaboration within interdisciplinary teams
• Advocacy and systems navigation
• Flexibility and adaptability