Addictions Specialist

Why join CMHA Kenora?
We are a team committed to our vision of mental health support for all. We offer an inclusive, innovative, and high-performance work culture that helps us deliver transformational impact. The organization cares about the growth, safety and well-being of employees and offers:
•Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
•Comprehensive Health Benefits
      o Employee & Family Assistance Program
•Paid Vacation Days
•Learning & professional development opportunities

Employer: CMHA Kenora Branch
Job Title: Addictions Specialist
Work Location: Safe Bed Program
Employment Status: Full-Time, Permanent

For more information, please visit www.cmhak.on.ca

Deadline to apply: February 10th, 2026

Overview:
This member of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch works alongside a team of professionals whose focus is safety, stability and support for individuals in a mental health crisis who are in immediate contact with police but not suitable for incarceration or admission to the hospital. The Addictions Specialist has the clinical skill and experience to assess, plan, develop, coordinate, connect and support services to program clients. The Addictions Specialist will participate in screening, assessment and coordination of recovery plans specific to addiction related needs of clients. Development of the recovery plan will be coordinated with the client and the team. This position reports directly to the Safe Program Team Lead and Chief Executive Officer.

Qualifications:
•BSW preferred, or demonstrated equivalent
•Registered or eligible for registration in a regulated health profession eligible under the Psychotherapy Act of Ontario
•3 to 5 years of experience in addiction services with in-depth knowledge of complex clinical issues
•Demonstrate skills in conducting interview, screening and assessment of needs and mental status
•Knowledge of mental health/illness and mental health difficulties and treatment modalities
•Assessment, Treatment and Evaluation skills
•Ability to work collaboratively with clients, team colleagues, and community stakeholders
•Ability to participate side by side with individuals to accomplish tasks, develop meaningful activities
•Ability to carry out and model activities of daily living
•Cultural Competence for diverse populations
•Working knowledge of community resources and agencies
•Ability to work independently and in a team environment
•Computer literacy and recording skills
•Able to work flexible hours
•Valid Driver’s License

•Criminal Records Check
•Certification in CPR and First Aid
•Ability to manage conflict and crisis situations

Duties:
•Adherence to all policies of the CMHA Kenora Branch including assurance of confidentiality of all client, personnel and organizational records and information
•Maintenance of professional qualifications and registration
•Maintenance of clients files and data files including updating of client information consistent with policies and procedures of CMHA Kenora Branch
•Provide addiction related support services, crisis support and counselling
•Thorough screening and assessment of client needs related to substance use and development of appropriate recovery plans
•Psycho-education regarding substance use and harm reduction
•Facilitate and monitor the implementation of client recovery plans
•Complete relevant assessment tools around substance use and support clients with information and subsequent referrals to ongoing treatment and rehabilitation specific to substance use
•Participate in regularly scheduled staff meetings and recovery plans
•Participate in training and educational opportunities
•Participate in administrative and office functions as needed
•Provide a safe environment by ensuring adherences to workplace health and safety regulations and policies, infection control guidelines, WHMIS and Safe Work Procedures

•Ensure client safety and client safety activities are emphasized throughout orientation of new staff members
•Support an environment which avoids, prevents and corrects all activities or actions which may result in an adverse outcome in the delivery of mental health services
•Re-assess goals/recovery plans, refine/continue intervention techniques as needed
•Educate clients to identify early warning signs for substance use disorders and prepare to maintain changes
•Facilitate development of self-management plan
•Modify hours of work on an as needed basis to meet programming needs of the Residents
•Responsible for self-care
•Other duties as directed

How to Apply:
Please submit your cover letter and resume to: [email protected]

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities.

Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.