Addiction Counsellor

Reports To: Program Manager

Location: Lethbridge, Alberta

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Position Summary

Addiction Counsellors are responsible for the day-to-day delivery of individualized treatment programming at Fresh Start Recovery Centre. Reporting to the Program Manager, they provide individual counselling, facilitate therapeutic and educational groups, and support clients in developing recovery strategies grounded in the 12-Step model. They oversee case management, maintain accurate client records, and collaborate with the treatment team to monitor progress and coordinate care. Through a compassionate, client-centred, and trauma-informed approach, Addiction Counsellors promote accountability, personal growth, and sustainable long-term recovery.

Key Responsibilities

Client Care and Counselling

- Provide individual counselling tailored to each client’s recovery needs.
- Facilitate group programming, including education, therapeutic, and process groups.
- Support clients in developing treatment goals and strategies for long-term recovery.
- Support clients in understanding co-occurring issues such as trauma, family dynamics, and life skills.
- Developing and maintaining a transparent understanding of available resources and providing appropriate referrals.
- Recognize and respond appropriately to client distress, escalating behaviours, mental health crises, and other urgent concerns.
- Provide immediate support and documentation within the scope of the role, follow established crisis response and safety procedures, and consult with supervisors.
- Maintain appropriate therapeutic boundaries and adhere to organizational policies, confidentiality requirements, and applicable professional guidelines. While ensuring client dignity, safety, and well-being.
- Adhere to professional ethics

Case Management

- Follow the task timeline as outlines in the Continuum of Care.
- Maintain accurate,



detailed, and up-to-date client case files in adherence to S.O.A.P Notes.
- Complete assessments, treatment plans, progress notes, referrals, and discharge summaries in a timely manner.
- Participate in regular case reviews with the Program Manager.
- Maintain strict client confidentiality and protect personal health information in accordance with applicable legislation, professional ethical standards, organizational policies, and privacy requirements.

Collaboration and Communication

- Work collaboratively with Counsellors, Outreach staff, Client Support Workers, Client Support Supervisor, and Management to provide seamless client support.
- Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and program planning sessions.
- Communicate effectively with leadership and colleagues regarding client needs and program improvements.
- Coordinate care with internal team members and external service providers, as appropriate, to support clients’ access to community-based resources resources. Facilitate referrals, transitions between levels of care, and discharge planning to promote sustained recovery and community reintegration.
- Provide group and case management coverage when needed

Qualifications

Education and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counselling, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor (CCAC) designation required, or eligibility to obtain.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in the addiction, recovery, mental health,



or social services field.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations.
- Experience with case management and treatment planning in recovery settings.
- Lived experience with addiction and recovery, alongside a pathway to formal education will be taken into consideration.

Skills and Competencies

- Strong knowledge of addiction recovery, trauma-informed care, and 12-Step philosophy.
- Commitment to recovery-oriented, client-centered practice.
- Robust organizational and documentation abilities.
- Effective counselling and facilitation skills with individuals and groups.
- Ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team environment.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to observe and recognize behavioural and/or health status changes in participants.
- Ability to role model healthy lifestyle choices.
- Ability to set and maintain healthy, clear boundaries.
- Ability to organize and prioritize own workload.
- Conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills.
- Ability to operate related equipment and software programs

Working Conditions

- Evening and weekend work when required for programming and client support, as well as attendance of monthly birthday celebrations.
- Mix of office-based case management and direct client care in group and individual settings.

Compensation

- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive benefits package.
- Professional development opportunities.

Requirements

- Certification in; First Aid and CPR.
- Class 5 Drivers License
- Vulnerable Persons Clearance

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00-$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- Dental care
- Discounted or free food
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- On-site parking
- Paid time off

Work Location: In person

📌 Addiction Counsellor (Lethbridge)
🏢 Fresh Start Recovery Centre
📍 Lethbridge