Mental Health Counsellor ($66,048-$77,532/yr + Relocation Assistance to Alert Bay Area, BC)

• Make a meaningful impact by supporting the mental health and well-being of the ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation community
• Earn a competitive salary of $66,048-$77,532, with employer-covered benefits, pension plan, and relocation assistance
• Join a close-knit community, embracing cultural richness and a rewarding career in a stunning natural environment

At ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation, we are committed to preserving our rich cultural legacy while fostering economic development, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of our people. Just as the ‘Na̱mǥis people have long drawn strength from the wisdom of their ancestors and the protective spirit of ‘Namxxiyalegiyu, today we continue to honor our heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and prosperity. Our territory spans the entire Nimpkish and Kokish River Watersheds on northern Vancouver Island, extending to the surrounding waters and islands of Johnstone Strait and Queen Charlotte Strait. Guided by resilience and a deep connection to our lands and waters, we provide services and initiatives that support sustainable industries, cultural revitalization, and community advancement. Through fisheries, forestry, tourism, and governance, we are shaping a thriving future that reflects our values and traditions. Join us and become part of a community where purpose, innovation, and tradition come together to build a lasting legacy for generations to come.

For more information, please visit our website: namgis.bc.ca

‘Na̱mǥis First Nation is seeking a full-time Mental Health Counsellor to join its health and wellness team at the ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation Health Centre in Alert Bay, BC.

Reporting to the Health Centre Administrator, you will play a pivotal role in providing mental health counselling services to individuals of all ages within the community—including children, youth, adults, and Elders—while ensuring culturally sensitive and trauma-informed care.

In this position, you will be primarily responsible for delivering compassionate counselling services, supporting crisis interventions, and collaborating with community partners to promote mental wellness.

More specifically, your responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Providing direct counselling services, including assessments, treatment planning, referrals, and follow-up
• Offering crisis intervention and trauma support, addressing issues such as suicide, domestic violence, and abuse
• Collaborating with community partners, including the ‘Na̱mǥis Health Centre staff, MCFD, RCMP, hospitals, schools, and other stakeholders
• Facilitating family support meetings and educational workshops to promote mental wellness
• Maintaining confidential clinical records in compliance with professional standards
• Advocating for mental health resources and services through community outreach
• Supporting holistic and culturally appropriate care tailored to the community's needs

To read the full position description, please click here.

To qualify, you will need 5+ years of experience providing direct counselling services to individuals, families, and groups, particularly within Indigenous communities on or off reserve, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counselling, Social Work or a related field.

The following are also required:

• Ability to undergo a criminal record and vulnerable sector check
• Willingness and ability to travel by ferry from Port McNeill to Alert Bay if not residing on Cormorant Island
• Availability to respond to after-hours emergencies
• Flexibility to work overtime, evenings, and weekends
• Membership in a recognized professional counselling association

Additionally, the following skills and background will be highly valued:

• Strong knowledge of holistic, evidence-based treatment modalities and best practices in substance use disorder and mental health treatment
• Extensive experience in addiction, mental health, trauma, and crisis intervention
• Deep understanding of the link between substance abuse and mental health
• Commitment to ethical practices and client confidentiality
• Experience in complex case management and community resources, supporting individuals with chemical dependencies and co-occurring disorders
• A Master’s degree in a related field (asset)
• Valid driver's license and personal vehicle (asset)

As our ideal candidate, you will bring a genuine appreciation for the community's history, culture, and the vital role it plays in addressing psychological concerns. You will possess compassion, empathy, patience, and humility, along with the ability to navigate complex interpersonal relationships within a close-knit and passionate community. With cultural sensitivity, professionalism, and a deep respect for confidentiality, you will maintain a warm personality and a sense of humor to foster meaningful connections and build trust with clients.

Success in this position requires personal resilience, adaptability, and a strong drive to contribute to the betterment of the community, working collaboratively to provide compassionate and culturally sensitive care in a close-knit environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting the mental health and well-being of the ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation community while embracing the natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique challenges of living and working in the remote setting of Alert Bay.

Note: Preference will be given to applicants who have First Nations or Indigenous ancestry.

Compensation based on skills and experience, is a competitive annual salary of $66,048-$77,532, and a host of excellent benefits including:

• 100% employer-covered extended health, dental, and vision coverage
• Pension plan - 7% match
• Generous time off, including 3 weeks vacation, 2 weeks at Christmas, and cultural days throughout the year
• Annual and sick leave to support work-life balance
• Relocation assistance
• Potential accommodation assistance
• Professional development support, including coverage for certifications and memberships
• Opportunity to join a close-knit community, participating in seasonal cultural and community events

Make a meaningful impact and contribute to the well-being of the ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation community—apply today!