JOB PURPOSE

The PAGC Youth Empowerment Strategy (YES) is seeking a Mental Health Counselor to provide therapeutic mental wellness assessments and supports to youth registered with the program, ranging in age from 11 to 18 years of age. The YES youth mental health counselor supports the development of positive relationships between youth, families and their supports through culturally appropriate strategies.

KEY JOB FUNCTIONS

 Program Support

Providing therapeutic mental wellness assessment and support to children between the ages of 11 to 18 registered with the youth empowerment strategy.

• Conduct an initial assessment of the youth needs based on approved assessment tools.
• Assess the youth’s support network to identify resources that will enhance positive outcomes.
• Develop treatment plans based on needs.
• Provide the child with one-on-one therapeutic support using various interventions such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, on the land healing, teachings and ceremonies.
• Collaborate with YES staff and PAGC Health department as well as medical, educational and social services to promote and support mental wellness needs.
• Ensure interventions are consistent with cultural teachings and are appropriate in addressing behaviors related to ADHD, FASD, depression, anxiety or mood disorders.
• Ensure a holistic approach is used in case planning to promote positive outcomes inclusive of medical professionals, care providers, school and other supports.
• Ensure proper child welfare issues are properly documented and addressed in a timely manner.
• Maintain case files for each child including initial assessment, treatment notes and telephone or in-person discussions/correspondence with other services and progress reports.
• Provide monthly statistical reports pertaining to the number of children accessing service, number of direct therapeutic service hours, number of case planning meetings, number of family member meetings, agencies and other resources monthly.
• Monitor outcomes and provide a quarterly progress report using the appropriate assessment tool(s).
• Provide up to 40 hours per week of mental wellness support

Relationship and Team Building

In collaboration with YES colleagues:   

• Demonstrate behaviors, actions and attitudes that are consistent with PAGC’s vision, mission and values.
• Provide opportunities for the enhancement and development of positive cultural identities of the children, families and communities served.
• Communicate and consult with supervisor as required.
• Ensure effective and professional communication with internal and external service providers.
• Share information according to the privacy and confidentiality acts.

Administration and Reporting:
Complete administrative functions and reports and adhere to PAGC policies, procedures and relevant practices.

• Ensure confidentiality and safekeeping of all documents and records
• Develop and maintain accurate, up-to-date and concise work files
• Provide monthly statistical reports

Other Duties:

• Participate in internal or external committees such as PAGC Crisis Response Team
• Other duties as required and assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

 Minimum Education

• Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree
• Three (3) years direct experience working with youth
• Experience working with Indigenous people, organizations and communities

 Knowledge Requirements

• Knowledge of PAGC programs and services
• Understanding of Cree, Dene, Dakota culture, traditions and the Seven Grandfather Teachings
• Understanding and awareness of evidence-based practices that address intergenerational trauma and wellness-based mental health program services for youth.
• Knowledge of external service and service agencies that can be accessed to meet the youth needs.

Special Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal
• Demonstrated excellence in conflict resolution, mediation, and problem solving
• Strong organizational and administrative skills
• High level of initiative and self-direction
• Proven ability to work with First Nation communities and people
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and to develop strong, effective teams

The position is based in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, and is a contract position to March 31, 2026, with possible opportunity for renewal pending funding and a successful performance review.

For additional information, including specific requirements for the position, please contact Penny Constant at pconstant@pagc.net or call 306-953-7283.

Please send your cover letter and resume with three employment references to:

Karen Timmerman, Director of Human Resources
Prince Albert Grand Council
Box 2350
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan S6V 6Z1
Tel: 306-953-7200     Fax: 306-953-1045     Email: personnel@pagc.net

We offer competitive salary commensurate with education and experience.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working with PAGC Youth Empowerment Strategy (YES), however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Application deadline: January 24, 2025