Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor

FULL-TIME CONTRACT JOB OPPORTUNITY

MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTIONS COUNSELLOR

COMMUNITY WELLNESS DEPARTMENT

Opening Statement

Sagamok Anishnawbek is seeking a dedicated and culturally grounded Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor to join the Community Wellness Department.

This position works primarily with adult clients experiencing substance use and addiction-related challenges, supporting individuals through all stages of recovery including treatment, detox, aftercare, and abstinence. The Counsellor also contributes to the development and delivery of treatment, prevention, and wellness programs that promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing across the community.

Why Join Sagamok Anishnawbek?

At Sagamok Anishnawbek, we believe our people are our greatest strength. As a growing and progressive First Nation, we are committed to building a workplace where employees are supported, collaboration is encouraged, and opportunities for professional growth are embraced. When you join our team, you become part of an organization that values innovation, teamwork, cultural identity, and the meaningful contributions of every employee.

• Make a Difference: Contribute to meaningful work that strengthens our community, supports our people, and helps shape a brighter future for generations to come.

• Grow Your Career: Explore opportunities to develop your skills, expand your knowledge, and build a rewarding career within a diverse and evolving organization.

• Collaborate and Innovate: Work alongside dedicated professionals and community leaders who share a commitment to continuous improvement, creative problem-solving, and achieving common goals.

• Be Part of Something Bigger: Help advance community priorities while supporting Anishinaabe culture, traditions, language, and values in the work we do every day.

• Work with Purpose: Find fulfilment in knowing that your efforts contribute to the well-being, success, and long-term prosperity of Sagamok Anishnawbek.

At Sagamok Anishnawbek, we are building more than an organization — we are building a stronger community and a future filled with opportunity. If you are passionate about making a difference, committed to working collaboratively, and eager to grow alongside a progressive First Nation, we invite you to explore a career with us.

Benefits

• Professional Development Opportunities
• Invitation to participate in community events
• On-site parking

What You Will Be Doing

Client Support and Treatment Planning

• Provide professional, timely one-to-one counselling and addiction support services
• Conduct risk and strengths-based assessments to determine client needs
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized wellness and treatment plans with clear goals and action steps
• Support clients through discharge planning and aftercare
• Educate clients on coping strategies and healthy lifestyle practices
• Assist clients in building personal support networks
• Refer clients to specialized services when needs exceed program scope
• Monitor client progress and adapt treatment plans as required

Programs, Prevention, and Community Wellness

• Plan, facilitate, and coordinate addictions-related prevention workshops and presentations for children, youth, families, schools, and the broader community
• Develop and deliver healing and recovery programs, including culturally based activities, healing circles, and twelve-step programs
• Collaborate in organizing community events that promote individual, family, and community wellness
• Support the integration of traditional and mainstream approaches to healing and recovery

Collaboration and Administration

• Maintain collaborative relationships with internal and external service providers
• Participate in case reviews, conferences, staff meetings, and supervision
• Maintain accurate and timely electronic client records and documentation
• Provide program data, statistics, and reports as required
• Engage in ongoing professional development and learning

What You'll Bring

We're looking for someone who brings:

• College or University degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related human services field
• Certificate in Addiction Counselling (ICADC) preferred, or willingness to pursue credentialing
• Certification in Drug and Alcohol Assessment Tools through the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health considered an asset
• Minimum three (3) years of addiction-specific clinical experience
• Experience working with individuals experiencing concurrent disorders
• Strong knowledge of substance use, recovery-oriented interventions, evidence-informed practices, and treatment modalities
• Deep respect for and understanding of Anishnawbek history, teachings, values, language, and cultural practices
• Strong interpersonal, assessment, and case management skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Commitment to culturally competent, community-based wellness approaches

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to work flexible hours.
• Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check prior to employment and annually thereafter
• Sign and maintain an annual oath of confidentiality
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
• Valid driver's license and vehicle for on-the-job use
• Commitment to confidentiality and respectful participation in cultural activities and ceremonies

About Sagamok Anishnawbek

Sagamok Anishnawbek is a growing and progressive First Nation located along the north shore of Lake Huron in Northern Ontario. Rooted in a rich Anishinaabe history, culture, language, and traditions, Sagamok is committed to building a strong, healthy, and prosperous future for its community members and generations to come.

Guided by the principle of Mino-Bimaadiziwin — living a good life — Sagamok Anishnawbek continues to advance community development, strengthen governance, and deliver programs and services that support the well-being, growth, and success of its people. Through a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, the organization is creating meaningful opportunities that contribute to a thriving and self-sufficient community.

With a diverse range of departments, programs, and services, Sagamok Anishnawbek offers a rewarding environment for individuals who want to make a positive difference. Our employees play an important role in supporting community priorities, preserving cultural values, and helping shape the future of Sagamok.

Join a team where your work has purpose, your contributions matter, and your efforts help build a stronger future. At Sagamok Anishnawbek, you have the opportunity to grow professionally while being part of an organization dedicated to its people, its culture, and its community.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit an application through our Career Centre or send a Resume, Cover Letter and References to [email protected]

Experience working with First Nations organizations or knowledge of Indigenous culture and community is an asset, and we welcome applicants who are committed to learning and working respectfully alongside the community.

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