MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor - )

The MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor works under the direction of the Clinical Coordinator or designate, within an integrated rehabilitation/recovery harm reduction model. The role is part of a multidisciplinary team and collaborates with community agencies to provide triage, immediate support, assessment, urgent clinical response, harm reduction, short‑term psychotherapeutic/stabilization services, exploration of community resources, and liaison and coordination with other community services. Participation in planning priorities for service to adults with mental health and addictions problems is required.

Travel may be required; transportation arrangements must meet VIHA operational requirements and may necessitate the use of a personal vehicle and a valid BC Driver's License.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education, Training and Experience

Baccalaureate Degree in a health‑related discipline from an approved post‑secondary institution.

Recognised post‑basic education related to mental illness and/or alcohol and drug addiction; at least two (2) years of recent related experience in crisis‑intervention settings such as policing, crisis counselling, paramedic or similar work environment.

Understanding of mental health and alcohol and drug addiction issues; psychiatric and suicide/homicide risk assessment, psychiatric and addictions treatment methodologies, crisis intervention and response techniques and strategies,



the change process and community dynamics; knowledge of available programmes and services and applicable legislation such as the Mental Health Act, Child Protection legislation and the Adult Guardianship Act; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Valid BC Driver's Licence.

Skills and Abilities

- Demonstrated competence in the treatment of addiction and mental illness, congruent with VIHA's framework and standards.
- Demonstrated interpersonal and clinical skills, including crisis intervention, stabilization, de‑escalation and brief psychotherapy.
- Demonstrated organisational, problem‑solving and teaching skills.
- Demonstrated judgement, good observation and client assessment skills, tact and empathy.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to work professionally and effectively with very difficult/at‑risk clients.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team and to proactively manage and resolve conflict.
- Ability to promote positive change and independence.
- Ability to prioritise and organise workload.
- Ability to carry out the duties of the position.
- Ability to foster good public relations.
- Ability to operate a personal computer with a variety of Windows‑based software and other office equipment.

This casual position is based out of The Harbour Protected Consumption Site in Victoria.

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📌 MHSU Access & Crisis Response Counsellor (Victoria)
🏢 Vancouver Island Health Authority
📍 Victoria