EHN Canada is the nation’s largest private network of industry-leading mental health, trauma, and addiction treatment facilities, each with a passion for providing quality treatment for Canadians. We are committed to both caring for our patients and supporting their loved ones. With over 100 years of collective experience, our inpatient, outpatient, and online programs are offered across the country, providing essential compassionate care to patients wherever they are.
EHN Canada prides themselves on providing both excellent and accessible care to all Canadians.
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Position Summary:
The Mental Health & Addiction Support Worker (MHASW) plays a critical frontline role in supporting individuals experiencing acute mental health challenges, substance use, homelessness, and other complex needs. Working in a short-term, high-intensity emergency setting, the MHASW provides trauma-informed support with a focus on stabilization, safety, and rapid client engagement. The MHASW collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to respond to client needs in real time, while maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Greet and triage new intakes, focusing on safety, basic needs, and immediate client support.
- Engage clients using trauma-informed approaches, build trust in brief interactions.
- Complete Mental Health & Wellness Check-In for each client as applicable.
- Provide emotional support, crisis intervention, and nonjudgmental listening to clients in distress.
- Monitor and respond to mental health and substance use crises, including overdose response.
- Write timely and factual process notes following each interaction.
- Coordinate with nursing staff, security, and other shelter personnel to ensure smooth operations.
- Participate in daily shift summaries and team debriefs.
- Support clients in accessing housing supports, hygiene items, meals, and appropriate referrals.
- Offer brief navigation support for detox, recovery, housing, or emergency services when time allows.
- Promote respectful, safe interactions within the shelter space and intervene when needed.
- Observe and report any safety concerns, unusual behaviours, or medical needs promptly.
- Assist with light housekeeping tasks to maintain a clean and safe shelter environment.
- Conduct regular walk-throughs and check-ins on all clients during the shift.
- Participate in the discharge process by assisting clients in identifying safe next locations and transporting clients to appropriate facilities or accommodations.
- Communicate clearly and consistently with other team members across shifts.
- Uphold client confidentiality and adhere to all policies and procedures.
- Participate in ongoing training and development opportunities as assigned.
- Other related duties as assigned by the Team Lead or Program Supervisor.
This is mix of overnight, days, evenings and weekends line.
Experience and Qualifications:
- Diploma or degree in Mental Health, Addictions, Community Support, Social Work, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Strong knowledge of trauma-informed care practices.
- Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and mental health concerns.
- Demonstrated ability to respond to crises in a calm and effective manner.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Valid First Aid/CPR Level C.
- Clear Criminal Records Check for vulnerable adults.
- Valid Class 5 Driver's License and/or proof of identity.
- Reported misuse or abuse of mood-altering chemicals for two years prior to application would disqualify an applicant for a period of one year from the date of application.
Artificial intelligence (AI) may be used to screen, assess, or select applicants for this position by analyzing application materials and generating recommendations to support human decision-making.
EHN Canada is an employment equity employer. If you should require accommodation during the interview process, please contact Human Resources.
