Freedom Quest is a community-based youth substance use service serving the West Kootenay Boundary region. We partner with youth aged 12–19 and their families to reduce substance-related harms and build lasting wellness — in a safe, stigma-free, and culturally relevant environment.

As our Youth Substance Use & Family Counsellor, you will deliver evidence-based assessments, counselling, and family support across a diverse geography, meeting young people where they are — in offices, schools, homes, and community spaces.

What you’ll do

• Provide comprehensive assessments and psychosocial interventions for youth with moderate to severe substance use concerns
• Develop participant-centred care plans collaboratively with youth, families, and caregivers
• Deliver individual, family, and group counselling using evidence-informed approaches
• Facilitate crisis intervention, safety planning, and harm reduction education
• Engage youth’s Circle of Care — family, informal supports, healthcare, and cultural supports
• Collaborate with schools, MCFD, Interior Health, and community organizations
• Provide psychoeducation to families and increase caregiver capacity and confidence
• Travel throughout the Boundary region to serve all communities
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation and contribute to program evaluation

Required qualifications

• Education- Master’s degree in social work, psychology, nursing, or equivalent healthcare field
• Clinical experience- Minimum 2 years each in child/youth mental health and substance use services
• Mandatory certifications & requirements – Valid BC Class V Driver’s Licence; Satisfactory Driver’s Abstract; Reliable vehicle + insurance; Criminal Record Check; First Aid & CPR Certification

Knowledge & approach

• Evidence-informed therapeutic modalities and concurrent disorder treatment
• Trauma-informed, harm reduction, and recovery-oriented care frameworks
• Cultural safety, humility, and distinctions-based approaches for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples
• Biopsychosocial-spiritual lens within an ecological framework
• Demonstrated experience working with LGBTQ2S+ youth and families
• Strong crisis intervention, risk assessment, and case management skills
• Commitment to lifelong learning and self-reflexive practice

What we offer

• Regular clinical supervision from a qualified supervisor
• Flexible, community-based service delivery across a scenic region
• Collaborative and supportive team environment
• Meaningful work with one of BC’s most underserved youth populations
• Participation in strategic planning and program development
• Ongoing professional development opportunities

To apply for this position, go the the agency’s website and follow the instructions to apply.

https://www.freedomquestyouthservices.ca/work-with-us.html

Pay: From $38.00 per hour

Expected hours: 26 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Dental care
• Disability insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Flexible schedule
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Education:

• Master’s Degree (required)

Work Location: In person