Community Living Society: CLS Counsellor Position Description

Reports to Community Living Counsellor, Coordinator

General Accountability

The goal of the CLS and its employees is to support individuals in a way of life that is independent and effectively interdependent; thereby, fostering the self-empowerment of all people into a meaningful life in community with others.

Some of the individuals we serve have spent many years segregated within their community, where many have been physically and emotionally abused while others have benefited from family life in an integrated community and educational system. Therefore, the CLS believes the most valuable treatment or therapy we can provide is to nurture meaningful relationships which are the centre of all human development.

In accordance with the CLS beliefs, the Community Living Counsellor is accountable for providing daily counselling and instruction in a manner which nurtures the self-determination and personal growth of the individuals we serve. This is carried out in accordance with the individual’s identified goals and objectives as documented in their individual plan. Counsellors are considered to be professionals capable of working as both effective team members as well as alone and in isolation.

Nature and Scope

This position reports directly to the Community Living Counsellor, Coordinator (hereinafter referred to as the Coordinator). The incumbent participates and cooperates as a team member, and is responsible to the individuals and their personal network.

Good relationships and communications must be developed and maintained with the individual and the individual’s chosen personal network.

Good relationships and communications must be developed and maintained internally with the individual’s friends, neighbours, advocates, Coordinators, co-workers, and office employees; and externally with the community, ministry representatives, professionals, employers and others.

A Community Living Counsellor believes in the value and worth of the individual and accepts, as the highest priority, the development of that individual’s positive self-identity. Therefore, a Community Living Counsellor’s every word and action is centred on this conviction.

Principal Functions and Accountabilities

In co-operation with the individual, their networks, the Coordinator and team, the Community Living Counsellor will:

Display Excellence in Personal and Professional Conduct and will:

Assist in all aspects and ongoing maintenance of general administration, report writing, record keeping, and accountability of funds, when requested, and in a timely manner.
Maintain thoroughness and attention to detail in every aspect of the job.
Attend staff meetings as required by the Coordinator, and punctually; participate in a positive and respectful manner.
Actively apply and adhere to CLS beliefs, policies and procedures (as identified in the CLS Handbook, CLS Health & Safety Program Binder and other documents) in an ethical, caring and professional manner, through sound knowledge of all these aspects.
Arrive on time for shifts, scheduled appointments and activities.
Adhere to the agreed upon team dress code which may be in place and necessary in order to provide a safe environment for certain individuals and subsequently lower risks for the employees.
Refrain from gossip, innuendos and slanderous comments regarding co-workers, individuals and their support networks.

Treat co-workers with respect at all times. A Counsellor will:

Treat colleagues respectfully without using inappropriate labels or comments.
Acknowledge that each person is responsible for their own mood and feelings and must manage them.
Refrain from discussing personal issues while supporting.
Respect and adhere to the team break guidelines when these are in place.
Admit errors and assume personal responsibility for mistakes.
Present a positive and welcoming attitude regardless of personal or professional situations.
Role-model professionalism at all times and coach others in a respectful way.
Maintain composure during difficult interactions with co-workers. Respond appropriately when distressed.
Respect employee confidentiality, personal boundaries and limitations.

Focus on Excellence in Support and will:

Maintain an environment that is emotionally healthy for people to live in by treating all individuals with compassion and respect. A Counsellor will:

Promote and maintain an open-door policy, positive relationships and open communications with the individual’s personal network. Collaborate with the individual’s support network in decision-making. Promote and maintain ongoing, positive relationships and open communications amongst individuals, their friends, other CLS employees, government representatives, and the community.
When speaking about individuals avoid using inappropriate labels or comments and refrain from referring to their personal issues in a joking manner.
Adjust their style and content of communication appropriately for each individual within respectful boundaries.
Maintain composure during difficult interactions with individuals.
Provide a high level of comfort and privacy during personal care and other procedures.
Respect an individual’s values, customs and beliefs.
Be flexible and respond to the changing needs for the support of the individual over time, in all aspects of their lives, as guided by regular reviews of their personal plan.
Seek the individual’s understanding when communicating information.
Demonstrate appropriate boundaries for relationships with supported individuals.
Acknowledge that extra support is sometimes required for each individual and provide this without expecting or feeling entitled to personal benefit.
Nurture self-determination, responsibility and personal growth of the individual in accordance with their expressed goals as documented in their personal plan.
Counsel and instruct individuals on choice making as a skill by presenting them with alternatives.
Counsel and instruct individuals in all areas of safety and security in order to assure their well being.
Counsel and instruct individuals in establishing and maintaining a healthy life style and environment.
Coach and advise individuals in a respectful and dignified manner to become as self-sufficient as possible in all areas of daily living and day to day activities, including: relationship building, medication administration, personal appearance, hygiene, assisting with meal times, cleaning, accountability of funds, supported employment, general upkeep and maintenance of their home, etc.
Coach and advise individuals to integrate themselves in their community and educate communities with regard to integration.
Adhere to CLS and the funders’ standards of practice in using Positive Behavioural Support techniques. These must be incorporated into the individual’s plan and appropriate training will be given before they may be used.
Respect individuals' privacy and confidentiality, and counsel and instruct individuals to show each other this same respect.
With the direction of the Coordinator, and in accordance with the wishes of the individual and networks, assist in the identification, development, and monitoring of employment opportunities, and the appropriateness of the job match, as applicable.
Provide accurate and detailed information for optimal transition of care between transit providers, the individual’s home support and vocational support.
Take a proactive stance on behalf of individuals by communicating with the team and Coordinator suggestions for changes in policies, procedures, or practices for improvements to support.

Contribute to Team Effectiveness and will:

Work actively to maintain a harmonious environment that values conflict resolution and will:

Provide constructive input and recommendations to improve existing policies, procedures, and protocols.
Respond appropriately to help a distressed colleague while supporting and while interacting with other co-workers.
Encourage and support co-workers.
Intervene professionally and courageously when a co-worker’s behaviour is rude, aggressive, threatening or inappropriate.
Request help when needed.
Solicit and value input from co-workers when appropriate. Convey information and answer questions honestly and tactfully.
Ensure support of individuals when unable, or when a co-worker is unable to fulfill responsibilities.
Take on extra work to help the team.
Serve as a knowledge or skills resource for others. Share knowledge, ask for clarification of needs.
Provide constructive and supportive feedback appropriately. Acknowledge others’ contributions.
Accept constructive feedback without defensiveness and modify behaviour.
Engage in informal teaching and learning activities with co-workers.
Provide individuals’ information to the team in an effective manner.
Complete assigned share of team responsibilities.
Maintain a positive attitude in times of crisis and during unanticipated increases in workload.
Support and adhere to the Personal and Professional requirements of this job description.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

Senior secondary graduation or equivalent (Grade 12) is required. Some related work experience or post secondary education is an asset, such as formal training in the areas of counselling and life skills instruction.

Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and role modelling are required. The incumbent must hold a solid commitment to the values of the Society.

Desired skills and abilities include: counselling and coaching skills; crisis prevention and intervention; knowledge of mental health issues; medication administration; augmentative communication skills (e.g.: sign language); health care skills; some general administrative knowledge; ability to instruct on daily living, personal care, and life skills (e.g. relationship building). Good written and oral communication skills are essential; and the ability to read and comprehend written material is essential. Good computer skills would be an asset.

Desired traits and qualities include: a positive personal identity; being a team player; possessing a friendly nature and positive attitude; being energetic and healthy and role-modelling a healthy, positive lifestyle; being responsible, flexible, respectful and sensitive; having a sense of humour; taking initiative and being willing to work on personal training and development as required. Any special talents that would contribute to more effective services would be an asset.

A Criminal Record Search, T.B. Test, Medical Form, Emergency Level First Aid Certificate are required. A Class 4 Driver's License and/or reliable vehicle may be required for some work locations, or may become a requirement due to the changing needs of individuals.

Physical Demands and Special Skills

Work may require employee to stand 50% to 90% of the time. Must be able to apply proper lifting techniques, assist with wheelchair transfers when required, and be physically agile (able to withstand tugging and pulling). Must be in good physical condition and able to work at a rapid pace. Must be physically strong enough to complete the appropriate lifts and transfers and be able to push the required wheelchair(s) as necessary at their particular work location.

The incumbent must demonstrate an ability to deal effectively and appropriately with stressful and crisis situations, such as seizures and aggressive behaviours.

Must be able and willing to support individuals in their daily activities and routines (e.g.: supported employment, recreational, educational or social activities, etc.)

Community Living Counsellor Position Description Reports to Community Living Counsellor, Coordinator General Accountability The goal of the CLS and its employees is to support individuals in a way of life that is independent and effectively interdependent; thereby, fostering the self-empowerment of all people into a meaningful life in community with others. Some of the individuals we serve have spent many years segregated within their community, where many have been physically and emotionally abused while others have benefited from family life in an integrated community and educational system. Therefore, the CLS believes the most valuable treatment or therapy we can provide is to nurture meaningful relationships which are the centre of all human development. In accordance with the CLS beliefs, the Community Living Counsellor is accountable for providing daily counselling and instruction in a manner which nurtures the self-determination and personal growth of the individuals we serve. This is carried out in accordance with the individual’s identified goals and objectives as documented in their individual plan. Counsellors are considered to be professionals capable of working as both effective team members as well as alone and in isolation. Nature and Scope This position reports directly to the Community Living Counsellor, Coordinator (hereinafter referred to as the Coordinator). The incumbent participates and cooperates as a team member, and is responsible to the individuals and their personal network. Good relationships and communications must be developed and maintained with the individual and the individual’s chosen personal network. Good relationships and communications must be developed and maintained internally with the individual’s friends, neighbours, advocates, Coordinators, co-workers, and office employees; and externally with the community, ministry representatives, professionals, employers and others. A Community Living Counsellor believes in the value and worth of the individual and accepts, as the highest priority, the development of that individual’s positive self-identity. Therefore, a Community Living Counsellor’s every word and action is centred on this conviction. Principal Functions and Accountabilities In co-operation with the individual, their networks, the Coordinator and team, the Community Living Counsellor will: Display Excellence in Personal and Professional Conduct and will: Assist in all aspects and ongoing maintenance of general administration, report writing, record keeping, and accountability of funds, when requested, and in a timely manner. Maintain thoroughness and attention to detail in every aspect of the job. Attend staff meetings as required by the Coordinator, and punctually; participate in a positive and respectful manner. Actively apply and adhere to CLS beliefs, policies and procedures (as identified in the CLS Handbook, CLS Health & Safety Program Binder and other documents) in an ethical, caring and professional manner, through sound knowledge of all these aspects. Arrive on time for shifts, scheduled appointments and activities. Adhere to the agreed upon team dress code which may be in place and necessary in order to provide a safe environment for certain individuals and subsequently lower risks for the employees. Refrain from gossip, innuendos and slanderous comments regarding co-workers, individuals and their support networks. Treat co-workers with respect at all times. A Counsellor will: Treat colleagues respectfully without using inappropriate labels or comments. Acknowledge that each person is responsible for their own mood and feelings and must manage them. Refrain from discussing personal issues while supporting. Respect and adhere to the team break guidelines when these are in place. Admit errors and assume personal responsibility for mistakes. Present a positive and welcoming attitude regardless of personal or professional situations. Role-model professionalism at all times and coach others in a respectful way. Maintain composure during difficult interactions with co-workers. Respond appropriately when distressed. Respect employee confidentiality, personal boundaries and limitations. Focus on Excellence in Support and will: Maintain an environment that is emotionally healthy for people to live in by treating all individuals with compassion and respect. A Counsellor will: Promote and maintain an open-door policy, positive relationships and open communications with the individual’s personal network. Collaborate with the individual’s support network in decision-making. Promote and maintain ongoing, positive relationships and open communications amongst individuals, their friends, other CLS employees, government representatives, and the community. When speaking about individuals avoid using inappropriate labels or comments and refrain from referring to their personal issues in a joking manner. Adjust their style and content of communication appropriately for each individual within respectful boundaries. Maintain composure during difficult interactions with individuals. Provide a high level of comfort and privacy during personal care and other procedures. Respect an individual’s values, customs and beliefs. Be flexible and respond to the changing needs for the support of the individual over time, in all aspects of their lives, as guided by regular reviews of their personal plan. Seek the individual’s understanding when communicating information. Demonstrate appropriate boundaries for relationships with supported individuals. Acknowledge that extra support is sometimes required for each individual and provide this without expecting or feeling entitled to personal benefit. Nurture self-determination, responsibility and personal growth of the individual in accordance with their expressed goals as documented in their personal plan. Counsel and instruct individuals on choice making as a skill by presenting them with alternatives. Counsel and instruct individuals in all areas of safety and security in order to assure their well being. Counsel and instruct individuals in establishing and maintaining a healthy life style and environment. Coach and advise individuals in a respectful and dignified manner to become as self-sufficient as possible in all areas of daily living and day to day activities, including: relationship building, medication administration, personal appearance, hygiene, assisting with meal times, cleaning, accountability of funds, supported employment, general upkeep and maintenance of their home, etc. Coach and advise individuals to integrate themselves in their community and educate communities with regard to integration. Adhere to CLS and the funders’ standards of practice in using Positive Behavioural Support techniques. These must be incorporated into the individual’s plan and appropriate training will be given before they may be used. Respect individuals' privacy and confidentiality, and counsel and instruct individuals to show each other this same respect. With the direction of the Coordinator, and in accordance with the wishes of the individual and networks, assist in the identification, development, and monitoring of employment opportunities, and the appropriateness of the job match, as applicable. Provide accurate and detailed information for optimal transition of care between transit providers, the individual’s home support and vocational support. Take a proactive stance on behalf of individuals by communicating with the team and Coordinator suggestions for changes in policies, procedures, or practices for improvements to support. Contribute to Team Effectiveness and will: Work actively to maintain a harmonious environment that values conflict resolution and will: Provide constructive input and recommendations to improve existing policies, procedures, and protocols. Respond appropriately to help a distressed colleague while supporting and while interacting with other co-workers. Encourage and support co-workers. Intervene professionally and courageously when a co-worker’s behaviour is rude, aggressive, threatening or inappropriate. Request help when needed. Solicit and value input from co-workers when appropriate. Convey information and answer questions honestly and tactfully. Ensure support of individuals when unable, or when a co-worker is unable to fulfill responsibilities. Take on extra work to help the team. Serve as a knowledge or skills resource for others. Share knowledge, ask for clarification of needs. Provide constructive and supportive feedback appropriately. Acknowledge others’ contributions. Accept constructive feedback without defensiveness and modify behaviour. Engage in informal teaching and learning activities with co-workers. Provide individuals’ information to the team in an effective manner. Complete assigned share of team responsibilities. Maintain a positive attitude in times of crisis and during unanticipated increases in workload. Support and adhere to the Personal and Professional requirements of this job description. Perform other duties as assigned. Preferred Qualifications Senior secondary graduation or equivalent (Grade 12) is required. Some related work experience or post secondary education is an asset, such as formal training in the areas of counselling and life skills instruction. Excellent communication, interpersonal skills and role modelling are required. The incumbent must hold a solid commitment to the values of the Society. Desired skills and abilities include: counselling and coaching skills; crisis prevention and intervention; knowledge of mental health issues; medication administration; augmentative communication skills (e.g.: sign language); health care skills; some general administrative knowledge; ability to instruct on daily living, personal care, and life skills (e.g. relationship building). Good written and oral communication skills are essential; and the ability to read and comprehend written material is essential. Good computer skills would be an asset. Desired traits and qualities include: a positive personal identity; being a team player; possessing a friendly nature and positive attitude; being energetic and healthy and role-modelling a healthy, positive lifestyle; being responsible, flexible, respectful and sensitive; having a sense of humour; taking initiative and being willing to work on personal training and development as required. Any special talents that would contribute to more effective services would be an asset. A Criminal Record Search, T.B. Test, Medical Form, Emergency Level First Aid Certificate are required. A Class 4 Driver's License and/or reliable vehicle may be required for some work locations, or may become a requirement due to the changing needs of individuals. Physical Demands and Special Skills Work may require employee to stand 50% to 90% of the time. Must be able to apply proper lifting techniques, assist with wheelchair transfers when required, and be physically agile (able to withstand tugging and pulling). Must be in good physical condition and able to work at a rapid pace. Must be physically strong enough to complete the appropriate lifts and transfers and be able to push the required wheelchair(s) as necessary at their particular work location. The incumbent must demonstrate an ability to deal effectively and appropriately with stressful and crisis situations, such as seizures and aggressive behaviours. Must be able and willing to support individuals in their daily activities and routines (e.g.: supported employment, recreational, educational or social activities, etc.)