Indigenous Cultural Helper

The Indigenous Cultural Helper - Community Support to work directly with clients in community, in collaboration with community partners and other AHS staff including but not limited to Mental health therapists, addiction counsellors, nurses, doctors and others involved with the care of the client. Fleet vehicle may be used, if available, for transporting clients when needed; however, personal vehicle may be required at times if fleet vehicle not available. In addition to a competitive rate of pay, AHS currently has a Remote Retention Allowance in place to an annual maximum of $3,000. This allowance is non-pensionable and is payable on an hourly basis for all hours paid at the basic rate of pay. All Non-Union Exempt positions are being reviewed for possible inclusion in the AUPE General Support Services bargaining unit. If this position is impacted, the incumbent will be notified accordingly.

The Indigenous Cultural Helper - Community Support most importantly contributes to providing holistic care to Indigenous people with mental health and/or addiction needs, educates health care providers about culturally acceptable approaches, promotes respectful relationships with pertinent stakeholders, facilitates Indigenous client-centered care and builds understanding and trust between Indigenous clients and health care providers. Meets with Indigenous clients to assess their cultural health needs, with focus on those that may impact mental wellbeing/health and recovery, and provide/coordinate suitable help. Supports clients when they request, through protocols, Traditional Indigenous healing ways and support the work of Traditional Healers who are recognized by the client. Through empathy and cultural connections develop an understanding of complex client needs and find ways to work with staff to develop culturally appropriate care plans.in this field.

Traditional Qualifications: Traditional Indigenous (cultural preparation is based in oral cultures and not measured by diplomas and degrees) Traditionally earned understanding about Indigenous cultural beliefs, values, customs, traditions, healing ways, ceremonies, traditional medicines and protocols. Guided ongoing development with Traditional Elders over the course of many years. Learning about Indigenous cultural identity that is recognized by other Indigenous people and is respectful in a health care environment. Knowledge of how to respond to diverse cultural needs of a wide variety of Indigenous people. Knowledge about the effects of colonization and residential schools, including intergenerational trauma.is field.

Experience in Indigenous counselling organizations, drug and alcohol treatment centers or other work experiences providing care for Indigenous peoples, training and experience in culturally appropriate, counselling modalities. Conflict resolution skills and/or training or interest to train. Courses in understanding and treatment of addictions, mental health and sacred boundaries. Courses in understanding and treatment of generational trauma. Other professional development/preparation i.e. mental health First Aid, etc. (can train).

Training in community health resources. Clear understanding and involvement in traditional Indigenous spirituality and healing. Fluency in English and at least one Indigenous language. Ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment. Familiarity with services available to Indigenous people. Able to understand socioeconomic circumstances from any different geographical areas and many ways of relating and coping.