Mental Health Support Worker

Mental Health Support Worker - University of Guelph

The Mental Health Support Worker plays a crucial role in assisting students facing complex mental health challenges. This position focuses on empowering students to manage daily functioning and achieve their academic goals through a person-centered, recovery-oriented approach.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with students to set and achieve goals related to academics, mental health, executive functioning, housing, and community connection.
• Utilize case management strategies to help students access and connect with formal and informal support systems.
• Work as part of an interdisciplinary team, ensuring alignment with the student's overall care plan and facilitating communication.
• Assist students in monitoring mental health symptoms, adhering to treatment plans, developing crisis plans, and identifying barriers.
• Liaise with community partners and university faculty/staff to facilitate service access and advocate for students.
• Potentially lead training, workshops, and support/skills-based groups.

Requirements:

• University Degree in social work, psychology, or a related health discipline.
• Minimum of three (3) years of related experience working with individuals with complex mental health/addiction issues.
• Demonstrated experience in mental health case management, including crisis intervention, risk assessment, emotional regulation, harm reduction, and goal-focused support.
• Experience working with diverse student populations, with a strong understanding and application of anti-oppressive practice.
• Experience supporting marginalized and at-risk individuals.
• Understanding of the broader mental health system, including emergency services, procedures, and legislation.
• Knowledge of privacy legislation relevant to student support.
• Understanding of adolescent and young adult development.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Experience developing and delivering training, workshops, and facilitating groups.
• Previous post-secondary experience is an asset.
• Experience with various service systems and developing support teams for individuals with complex mental health needs.

Work Environment:

• Flexible work hours, including some evenings.
• This position is primarily on-campus with occasional off-campus support required.
• The University of Guelph is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and encourages applications from all qualified individuals.

Key skills/competency

• Mental Health Support
• Case Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Risk Assessment
• Goal-Focused Support
• Anti-Oppressive Practice
• Student Support
• Interdisciplinary Teamwork
• Community Partner Collaboration
• Communication Skills