• Join our self-governed Indigenous community while honouring our heritage
• Receive a competitive annual salary of $70-75K plus signing bonus
• Feel valued, respected, and heard, working in a beautiful northern BC backdrop

About the Nisga'a Nation

Located on BC's rugged northwest coast, 100-150 km north of Terrace, Nisga'a Lands are blessed with soaring mountains, dramatic lava beds, picturesque fjords, and thriving rivers and streams, complemented by our rich cultural traditions. For visitors and residents, there is a wide variety of activities to enjoy, including fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ATVing, and much more!

The Nisga'a Lisims Government (NLG) building opened its doors in 2000. It has since been responsible for a vital set of functions carried out under various departments including Child & Family Services, Finance, Programs & Services, Fisheries & Wildlife, Lands & Resources, Capital, Housing & Facilities Operations, and Enforcement & Emergency Services, all which contribute to the development of the surrounding area. NLG's directives are governed under Nisga’a laws as well as federal and provincial laws.

To read more about our history, culture, and long term community goals, please visit our website.

About the Opportunity

NLG is currently seeking a full-time Child and Youth Mental Health Clinician, collaborating directly under the Nisga’a Child and Family Services department. The community-based role is located in New Aiyansh, BC, with work and travel between the other three Nisga'a communities of Gitwinksihlkw, Laxgalts’ap, and Gingolx.

As part of the child protection team, you will work with children of all ages. Such issues may include mental health, trauma, and/or family dysfunction for which you will also develop and implement a range of therapeutic treatments including expressive play, music, or art therapy. 

With the support of the Clinical Supervisor, the scope of your responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Interviewing clients to obtain pertinent information, including family and social history, treatments, etc.
• Observing clients to detect indications of concerning physical or mental behaviour
• Reviewing the results of tests given by psychologists to evaluate individual needs
• Planning and administering therapeutic treatments, including behaviour modifications and stress management therapy
• Maintaining regular contact with other agencies/professionals regarding client progress and resource opportunities 
• Consulting with psychologists/psychiatrists and other specialists regarding treatment plans and make amendments, as required
• Referring residents to other services to supplement treatment and counselling
• Conducting group therapy and/or individual therapy sessions
• Maintaining up-to-date documentation, including counselling notes, court reports, etc.
• Developing and implementing appropriate discharge planning
• Developing and maintaining positive relationships with internal and external community members, families, clients, and other employees

About You

To qualify, you must have at least 5 years of experience in a counselling role, with 2-3 years of experience working directly with children of all ages.

To succeed in this role, you will also need:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work, Counselling, Psychology or equivalent or relevant field
• Strong knowledge of aboriginal frameworks, including intergenerational trauma and impact of colonization
• Registration with an appropriate regulatory body (e.g., MSW, RSW, etc.)
• A valid Driver’s License and access to a reliable vehicle
• Effective interpersonal and community relations skills
• Ability to handle highly confidential and sensitive issues with discretion, tact, and diplomacy

This role is best suited to an outside of the box thinker who can take various therapy methods (e.g., expressive play, music, or art therapy) to ensure that each child receives the best care possible. 

Preference may be given to candidates who are members of or eligible for clinical membership with APA or CPA (American or Canadian Psychology Associations), or other equivalent organizations (e.g., BCACC, CCPA, FACTBC, ACA, etc.).

About the Benefits

The successful candidate will receive $70-75K annual salary, based on skills, education, and experience. All NLG team members also receive access to a wide range of employee benefits, including:  

• Hiring bonus for the successful candidate on top of the salary!
• Up to 38 days off (20 vacation + 18 elective leave)
• Extended medical and dental benefits
• Short and long-term disability
• Group life insurance
• Group pension plan
• Employee & family assistance program (EFAP) - confidential counselling services to assist employees
• Opportunities for personal and professional training and development
• Relocation assistance negotiable

By joining the NLG team, you can have a rewarding and exciting career that offers great opportunities for professional progression. Best of all, all of your hard work and dedication will serve the good of our Nation.

If you are passionate about helping others and aspire to make a real difference to First Nation communities, this is the ideal opportunity for you! Apply today!