Family Counsellor

The Early Childhood and Perinatal (ECAP) Mental Health Program is a community‐based program with the objective of improving the conditions for young children’s mental health. The program’s mandate is to work with parents/caregivers & their children ages 0-kindergarten entry, or with pregnant women and/or their partners who are experiencing perinatal anxiety and/or depression. Both program components provide short term treatment (10-12 sessions). Depending on waitlist demands, this position will work between both the early childhood & perinatal components of the program thereby requiring the successful candidate to demonstrate 3 essential skill sets. First, extensive knowledge and experience working with infants and preschoolers with a deep understanding of the impact of toxic stress on the infant/preschooler's growth, development and ability to engage in relationships. A foundation in attachment and applying this to parent child interactions in therapy is essential. Second, extensive knowledge of family systems assessment and intervention and experience working with preschoolers and/or families with mental health problems is essential. The successful candidate will have a solid track record of assisting families in making changes that support the development of positive mental health. Skills with behavior interventions within the family system, related to eating, sleeping, toileting, sensory concerns and speech concerns are required. Third, experience and knowledge working in a community mental health setting with adults during the perinatal and post-partum period. This requires knowledge of the DSM, skills in trauma-informed treatment and the ability to help families cope during the perinatal period with a focus of ensuring a strong attachment relationship with the baby.

As a Family Counsellor, you will provide assessment, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up to clients and their families. You will also provide clinical focused consultation with other programs or community resources and acts as a liaison to develop and promote preventative health programs in the community. You will collaborate with other health care providers and community service providers to ensure a continuum of care in the community.

Completion of master's degree in a health related field. Active or eligible for registration with the applicable Alberta regulatory college.

This position has transitioned to Recovery Alberta effective September 1, 2024. By applying on this posting, if you are the successful candidate, you agree to and will become an employee of Recovery Alberta. Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in infant/children's mental health. Professional experience in infant mental health and/or experience with preschool children required. Knowledge and experience in the application of relationship based interventions such as Circle of Security, Theraplay, Adult Attachment Interviews, Core Sensitivities and Working Model of the Child are required. Adult, perinatal mental health knowledge including experience and application of the DSM-V, DBT and CBT models as well as trauma focused models such as EMDR, ART or TF-CBT. Experience working in community mental health.

Completion of the Brain Story Certificate Solid understanding and application of Trauma Informed Care and Patient & Family Centered Care principles.