Registered Clinical Counsellor (Temporary Full-Time)

PLEA Community Services is currently seeking two (2) Temporary Full-Time Registered Clinical Counsellors for our Clinical Counselling team. The proposed start date for these positions is February 5, 2024, and they will end upon return of the incumbent. The term contract is estimated to be 8 months in duration. These positions require BCGEU membership.

Our Clinical Counselling team provides clinical counselling after assessing clients' social, psychological, emotional and/or behavioral issues and develops therapeutic programs and interventions.

Position Type: Temporary Full-Time
Location: Port Coquitlam, BC
Hours of Work: The usual hours of work are different for each of these positions and are as follows:

• Schedule 1: Monday to Friday flextime scheduling arrangement, including days and evenings, of 35 working hours per week.
• Schedule 2: Tuesday to Saturday flextime scheduling arrangement, including days, evenings and weekends, of 35 working hours per week.

Minimum Requirements: a Master's degree in counselling, counselling psychology, psychology, social work or a related field; one (1) or more years of recent related experience in providing counselling services to individuals and families; Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) designation from the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

Who we are:

PLEA is an accredited, not-for-profit, charitable community services agency that has operated throughout BC for more than 40 years. We deliver high quality, innovative services to children, youth, adults, and families facing significant challenges in their lives. PLEA is an ally in reconciliation. The organization is committed to providing culturally safe programs and continuing to work towards breaking down the barriers that cause harm to Indigenous people and communities.

What You Will Do: 

• Develop strong collaborative relationships with clients, families, and Family Caregivers to encourage their active participation in clinical counselling services and supports.
• Identify and assess client's needs in conjunction with Family Caregivers, agency staff, professionals, and members of the care team. Assess the social, psychological, emotional and/or behavioral challenges facing clients. Identifies core areas of concern to be addressed by clinical counselling.
• Develop and implement therapeutic approaches and interventions to support clients in positive, sustainable behavioral change, growth and development. Provide a variety of counselling interventions in accordance with the program's policies and procedures.
• Participate in the planning processes as part of a care team supporting the client. Provide consultation to care team as required. Advise other professionals involved with client's care where further evaluation or more intensive treatment is required.
• Provide conflict-resolution support and strategies for clients as-needed. Respond to critical incidents, implement crisis intervention strategies, and inform the care team as needed.
• Maintain knowledge of community resources and provide appropriate referrals to clients to meet their needs.
• Provide required reports on clients' behaviour and progress. Maintain clinical records in accordance with the program's policies and procedures.
• Adhere to ethical principles and standard pf practice in the counselling profession. Protect and uphold confidentiality.
• Perform other related duties as required.

What You Will Bring:

• Demonstrated ability to promote behavioural changes through a variety of counselling approaches and interventions, including with clients who may be reluctant to engage.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the demonstrated ability to build trusting and effective relationships with clientele, agency staff, professionals, Family Caregivers, and families.
• Demonstrated skills in working with families in crisis and facilitating individual, family and group counselling.
• Excellent conflict management and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, make sound decisions in high pressure situations and be accountable for results.
• Demonstrate organizational and time management skills, including the ability to multi-task and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare accurate and comprehensive clinical reports.
• Demonstrated ability to be sensitive and understanding of individuals' social realities including issues of race, culture, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, poverty and lifestyle.
• Demonstrated knowledge of counselling issues and trends.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite, database systems and web-based conferencing tools.

PLEA Benefits and Perks:

• Eligibility to enroll in health/welfare benefits on the first day of the month following the completion of the probation period.
• Education and Training Fund*
• Physical Activity Fund*
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): confidential and voluntary counselling support services and wellness resources.
• Discounted Membership Fees for Club 16 Trevor Linden and She's Fit.
• Employee Recognition Program (i.e., long service awards). 
• Agency-Sponsored Social Events (i.e., summer barbecue, annual holiday party, and team days).
• Perkopolis Membership - exclusive managed discount, reward, and benefits programs.

*these benefits are available to employees who are eligible for PLEA's health and welfare benefits.

Additional Requirements:

• Satisfactory Criminal Record Clearance.
• Must possess a valid Occupational First Aid Level 1 Certificate or be willing to obtain one prior to hire.
• Use of Personal Vehicle for work-related travel. This position requires travel in the Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.
• A valid B.C. Driver's License (Class 5), and suitable driver's abstract. 
• Documentation that applicant is legally approved to work in Canada.

Please submit a resume and cover letter referencing the competition number 2024001RCC2. Closing date for Internal Applications: Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 4:30PM. If the positions are not filled internally, they will remain open until filled.

Note: PLEA conducts primary source verification of applicant's credentials including education, training, work history, and licensure.

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