Support Counsellor
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Alzheimer Society of Muskoka is accepting applications for a one-year full time contract. The Support Counsellor provides information, supportive counselling and referral services to persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and their family members/caregivers who are referred to the Alzheimer Society as part of the First Link program.
Start Date: Mid November
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- develop, coordinate and facilitate Society Support Groups and Drop In programs
- identify support services needs for persons with ADRD and care partners
- provide information and supportive counselling to family members/caregivers and persons with ADRD through office visits, home visits (when necessary), phone consultations and follow-up
- liase with and link clients to AS education and support services, and to appropriate community agencies and resources based on their needs and requests
- work with the Public Education Coordinator in the development and delivery of the First Link Learning Series
- develop a plan with person with dementia and their family members/caregivers which includes referral to services as needed, such as assessments, respite options, Safely Home program, financial planning, home support, placement in long-term care etc.
- maintain client files and statistical data in accordance with Society funding and policy requirements
- contribute to ASM newsletter
- provide assistance with ASM Resource Centre
- develop, implement and evaluate an annual support service plan for ASM
- monitor & evaluate (annually) support services to ensure that they have met the needs of the target group
- plan, implement & evaluate new support services as appropriate
- develop, implement, monitor & evaluate policies and procedures related to support services program
- represent the Society on committees as appropriate
- liase with formal caregivers and community/health services when required
- maintain a current knowledge of ADRD, new developments in dementia research and care as well as relevant community resources. Be prepared to upgrade skills as required
- Assist with recruitment, training, supporting, and monitoring volunteers used in support service programs
- work with the First Link Coordinator to:
- develop and implement the First Link referral process to the AS
- ensure a timely and seamless response to First Link referrals
- other duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- University degree in Social Work preferred; University degree in Nursing, Gerontology or a related health science degree considered
- minimum 3 years experience working with persons with ADRD and/or their family members/caregivers
- experience in individual, group and family counselling
- demonstrated track record of group facilitation skills and experience
- Experience in program development and evaluation
- comprehensive knowledge and understanding of ADRD
- knowledge of relevant community resources
- superior interpersonal and communication skills
- excellent time management and organizational skills
- ability to work cooperatively with staff, volunteers and other organizations/agencies
- computer literate
- valid driver’s license and regular access to a reliable, insured vehicle
- ability to work a flexible schedule
Annual Salary - competitive wage commensurate with experience
The Alzheimer Society is an equal opportunity employer, and we are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities in which we live and serve. We are also committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes in accordance with the Human Rights Code and AODA and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. The Alzheimer Society welcomes those who have demonstrated a commitment to upholding the values of equity and social justice and we encourage applications from members of groups that have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples, Indigenous peoples of North America, Black and persons of colour, persons with disabilities, people living with dementia, care partners and those who identify as 2SLGBTQ+.
The Society requires that you be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, subject to any accommodation it may have under human rights legislation. The closing date for applications to this position is October 15th, 2021.
The Society thanks everyone who applies but only those selected for an interview will receive a response.
Contract length: 12 months
Please include resume and cover letter for our consideration.