George Spady Society

The George Spady Society is recognized as a leader in the development and delivery of effective services for the care, treatment, and support of individuals with substance-related disorders and dual diagnoses. People who come to us find dignity, hope and healing as they set a new path towards health and well-being. George Spady Society provides a continuum of support services supporting people with complex life circumstances associated with substance-related and concurrent disorders and homelessness, empowering them to improve their lives through client-centered, evidence-based best practices.

The Crisis Worker in the Medically Supported Detox provides trauma-informed, person-centered crisis intervention and mental health support to individuals within the Medically Supported Detox Program. Working during evening and overnight hours, the Crisis Worker plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment for clients experiencing acute distress, mental health crises, or emotional dysregulation.

This position emphasizes de-escalation, emotional regulation, and systems navigation, including hospital accompaniment and coordination with emergency services. The Crisis Worker takes a lead role during crises and supports the interdisciplinary team during non-crisis periods to maintain continuity of care and client support.

Description of Duties and Responsibilities:

- Provide immediate, trauma-informed crisis intervention and emotional support to clients in acute distress.
- Utilize de-escalation techniques to manage mental health crises and prioritize a calm, safe environment.




- Support clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges through compassionate, non- judgmental engagement.
- Accompany clients to hospital or emergency services as needed and advocate for their needs during transitions.
- Model effective de-escalation techniques for staff, recognizing the difference between perceived and actual threats, and approaching escalation as a form of communication that signals an unmet need.
- Respond effectively to emergencies, including medical, psychiatric, or behavioral incidents, in collaboration with nursing and clinical staff.
- Maintain clear, timely documentation of incidents, interventions, and client interactions in accordance with agency standards.
- Participate in safety planning and care coordination meetings with the interdisciplinary team.
- Provide updates and handovers to oncoming shifts to ensure continuity of care.
- Support staff and clients in post-crisis recovery and reflection.
- Engage in proactive, preventative interventions to reduce the likelihood of future crises.
- Maintain knowledge of community resources and referral pathways for mental health, housing, and social supports.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development related to crisis intervention, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care.

Position Qualifications





- Diploma or degree in Human Services, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
- Minimum 1 year of experience in a residential, medical, or community setting supporting individuals with complex needs.
- Demonstrated experience in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and mental health support.
- Strong understanding of harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and recovery-oriented practices.
- Familiarity with inner-city issues, including homelessness, substance use, and systemic barriers.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.

- Clear Police Information Check and Vulnerable Sector Check required.
- Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation preferred.
- Mental Health First Aid
- Crisis Intervention
- De-escalation
- First Aid/CPR/AED Training
- Additional training requirements may be identified and provided as part of professional development.

Hours of work: Part time weekends, permanent,

Equal Opportunity Employer: George Spady Society is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognizes that a diverse team benefits and enriches our work and is essential to our operational excellence. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and encourage women, members of racialized communities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity to confidentially self-identify at time of application should you wish to. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.

📌 Crisis Worker (Edmonton)
🏢 The George Spady Society
📍 Edmonton