Counsellor in Hamilton

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a worldwide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith‑and values‑based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life – there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description

This role is responsible for providing social work services and counseling to clients, including assistance in developing and implementation of service plans, and serving as a clinical consultant to facility staff. The role contributes to the broader mission and values of The Salvation Army, upholding standards of service that reflect its spiritual and social commitment to the community.

Accountabilities

• Support adherence to The Salvation Army’s standards, policies, and procedures, maintaining program integrity at all times.
• Consult with the clinical team on all decisions regarding client admission, dismissal, status changes, and external referrals.
• Provide crisis intervention, support counseling, advocacy, and case management services.
• Facilitate intensive treatment sessions and educational programs for in‑house clients as assigned.
• Collaborate with internal departments and external community agencies in consultation with the clinical team as directed.
• Conduct client assessments, develop treatment plans, and prepare progress reports in coordination with the clinical team.
• Provide supportive counseling, monitor client progress, and encourage adherence to treatment goals.
• Maintain complete and accurate documentation of all client interactions, treatment plans, and agreements.
• Support development of treatment strategies reflecting a multidisciplinary approach.
• Refer clients to appropriate community resources to support social reintegration.
• Support clients with financial planning, home visits, and outreach initiatives.
• Assist in coordination of weekly meetings at transitional housing sites to address program and property concerns.
• Attend court programs (e.g., Drug Court, Mental Health Court, DUI Court) as required.
• Perform additional program duties and special assignments as directed by the Executive Director.
• Prepare clear written and verbal communications, including business requirements, process documentation, and reports.
• Present options and recommendations to address issues and support informed decision‑making.
• Maintain required health and safety compliance reports and support external reporting as needed.
• Represent the organization in a respectful and professional manner, reflecting the mission and values of The Salvation Army.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Critical Relationship Management

Internal: Ministry Unit leadership, staff, and volunteers.
External: community members, community groups/organizations, service agencies, guests/clients of ministry unit in person.

Managerial Responsibility

Reports directly to the Assistant Executive Director.

Financial And Materials Management

May be involved in minor financial transactions on a regular or relief basis and is expected to exercise sound judgment in the use of organizational and personal resources. May be authorized to handle small amounts of cash, including disbursements and collections. May have access to confidential and sensitive information and is expected to maintain strict confidentiality at all times.

Working Conditions

Work is primarily performed in the office environment, mostly within a ministry unit or facility. The position requires strong concentration, active listening, body language observation, multitasking, and moderate amount of keyboarding. The incumbent may interact with individuals displaying challenging behaviours. This role may require shift work, work over weekends, statutory holidays and extended hours.

Education, Qualifications and Certifications

• Hold a degree in a clinical discipline specialized in the field of addictions.
• Hold a certification or working towards a completion as an Addictions Counselor with the Bermuda Addiction Certification Board.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR.

Experience and Knowledge

• At least 4 years of related experience.
• Thorough knowledge of evidence‑based, trauma‑informed practices in addiction treatment, principles of recovery, and motivation interviewing.
• Experience in caring for people who require physical, emotional and psychosocial support.
• Proven experience in program development and delivery.
• Experience working with a diverse population.
• Knowledge of MS Office.
• An alternative level or combination of education and experience may be acceptable.

Skills and Capabilities

• Willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army and its implications as related to position responsibilities.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to provide a healthy, safe, non‑judgmental space for clients accessing social services and/or facility care and offering care in a respectful manner, to assess and report changes in physical and emotional well‑being and to offer a compassionate approach to each client and their family.
• Ability to organize work, set priorities and meet deadlines with minimum supervision.
• Must demonstrate a positive attitude towards the homeless and individuals with substance abuse and concurrent problems, including mental health concerns.
• Superior oral and written communication skills.
• Patience and ability to deescalate situations with strong conflict resolution skills.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and professional ethics, with a balanced sense of fairness and flexibility.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to follow detailed instructions accurately.
• Adaptability to change and frequent interruptions.
• Ability to work effectively in a team‑oriented environment and take the initiative.
• Demonstrate attention to detail with good analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Demonstrate patience, understanding, and professionalism in all interactions.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening, empathy, and the ability to work effectively with staff, clients, families, volunteers, and visitors from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Valid driver’s license and clear driver’s abstract may be required for some of the roles.
• Ability and willingness to undergo applicable screening and background checks and Vulnerable Sector check successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion.

Rate of pay: $44.00 BMD

Disclaimer

This job profile is a generic, territory‐wide representation of the job class and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not replace or supersede the official job description as defined in the applicable collective agreement. For specific duties, responsibilities, and terms of employment, please refer to the collectively bargained job description.

Compensation

The target hiring range for this position is BD$0.00 to BD$0.00 with a maximum of BD$0.00. Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role. The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request.