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Wasisok Tomk Counsellor

Term: Part-time (2 Days per Week), 12-month contract

Overview:

The Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc. (WTCI) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing capacity-building opportunities for member communities within the traditional Wolastoqey territory in New Brunswick. Our Health team’s mission is to support and empower communities by addressing pressing health needs through collaborative initiatives and culturally sensitive approaches.

The Part Time Counsellor will provide culturally grounded, trauma-informed counselling and case management support to children, youth, and caregivers who do not have access to NIHB-funded services. This role involves both in-office and community-based sessions, including home visits, and works collaboratively within an integrated circle of care.

Key Responsibilities:

Direct Counselling Services

  • Provide one-on-one and family counselling to children, youth, and caregivers (currently 4 clients, with potential for growth).
  • Offer services within the office, in client homes, and in community settings as required.
  • Use culturally informed, strengths-based, and trauma-responsive approaches.
  • Support clients in developing emotional regulation, coping strategies, communication skills, and wellness goals.

Case Management

  • Serve as the primary case manager for all clients assigned to the role.
  • Coordinate supports with caregivers, educators, community partners, and other service providers.
  • Maintain regular check-ins, documentation, progress notes, and follow-up.
  • Facilitate referrals to additional services when needed.

Assessment & Planning (Tetpawsuwakon Framework)

  • Complete Tetpawsuwakon (Balanced Life) Profile assessments with each client.
  • Develop Tetpawsuwakon Profile Reports summarizing strengths, needs, and holistic wellness indicators.
  • Co-create Tetpawsuwakon Wellness Plans grounded in the teachings of the Four Directions (mental, emotional, spiritual, physical).

Behaviour, Safety, and Learning Plans

Lead the development of:

  • Individualized Behaviour Support Plans
  • Safety Plans
  • Learning Plans

  • Collaborate with each client’s circle of care (family, school, caregivers, Elders, service providers) to implement and monitor plans.
  • Support consistent follow-through across environments (home, school, community).

Capacity Building for Team Members

  • Provide guidance, consultation, and modelling to current staff in trauma-informed care, crisis response, collaborative planning, and culturally grounded practice.
  • Support team members in understanding and applying Tetpawsuwakon teachings and using holistic wellness strategies in their daily work.
  • Participate in team meetings and contribute to ongoing professional learning.

Documentation & Reporting

  • Maintain confidential, accurate, and timely client files.
  • Prepare progress updates, reports, and communication summaries as needed.
  • Ensure that all documentation aligns with organizational policies, legal requirements, and Indigenous data sovereignty principles.

Collaboration & Community Engagement

  • Work in partnership with Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations to support client needs holistically.
  • Engage respectfully with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and cultural practitioners in support planning.
  • Represent the organization in a culturally safe, ethical, and professional manner.


Education Requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or child development is usually the minimum.
  • Many employers prefer or require a master’s degree in counseling, clinical psychology, or social work, especially for specialized roles (e.g., art therapy, play therapy).
  • For creative therapy roles (music, art, dance), a master’s in therapy is specifically required.

Licensing & Registration

  • Membership or registration with a provincial or federal counseling/therapy association is often mandatory (e.g., Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, College of Social Workers).
  • Depending on the province, school counselors and child therapists may need additional certifications.

Clinical Experience

  • A period of supervised clinical work with children or families is typically required.
  • Employers often look for prior hands-on experience in child development, trauma support, or family counseling.

Specialized Skills

  • Training in play therapy, art therapy, or child-centered modalities is highly valued.
  • Strong communication, empathy, and the ability to build trust with children and families are essential.

Work Environment

  • Work may be required in schools, community centers,  and office, with travel to Wolastoqey Communities required.
  • Flexibility is often required, as sessions may be scheduled around school hours or family availability.

Personal Attributes:

  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Understanding and respect for Wolastoqey culture and priorities.
  • Self-starter with the ability to take initiative and work independently.
  • Collaborative approach to working with others.
  • Flexibility to attend events and meetings outside of regular working hours.

       Additional Notes:

  • The successful candidate must have regular access to a vehicle.
  • Candidates who currently hold elected political office will not be considered for this position.
  • Criminal Records Check with Vulnerable Sector Check
  • Valid drivers license and access to a vehicle with the ability to travel.

WTCI hires based on merit and are committed to employment equity. We encourage all qualified persons to apply; however, preference will be given to individuals with an Indigenous background as per section 42 of the Human Rights Code.

Remuneration is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The Wolastoqey Tribal Council Inc. offers competitive salary and benefits to our employees. Working location (home base) is 35 Dedham Street, Sitansisk (Fredericton New Brunswick).

Applications should be submitted in confidence via email, with the subject line “Counsellor” to: human.resources@wolastoqey.ca. The deadline for application is December 12th, 2025.

Note: Personal suitability will also be considered during the hiring process.