Community Forensic Mental Health Specialist

Shared Health Mental Health & Addictions operates inpatient, outpatient, and support programs and is committed to providing accessible, responsive and inclusive services for individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. Using a provincially coordinated approach, the service works with partners in the community and regional health authorities to provide low-barrier, client-centred care for Manitobans that supports healthy behaviours, mental health and well-being. The Community Forensic Mental Health Specialist (CFMHS) functions within the Adult Forensic Service as part of the broader Shared Health Community Mental Health Program.

Main Function:

The CFMHS provides a range of comprehensive services to individuals to promote their mental health recovery while concurrently managing their risk of violence. Individuals who receive services are primarily under the jurisdiction of the provincial Manitoba Criminal Code Review Board, having legal findings of being Unfit to Stand Trial or Not Criminally Responsible due to mental disorder, pursuant to sections 672.31 and 672.34 of the Criminal Code of Canada.

The CFMHS works as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide case management to individuals, and works closely with individuals’ natural, personal, and professional supports. The Adult Forensic Service provides services throughout the province of Manitoba.

• Minimum of four years of related community experience working with people with psychiatric disabilities, including mental illness, substance use disorders, neurocognitive disorders, and Intellectual Developmental Disorders.
• Experience working in the forensic mental health system or justice system is considered an asset.
• Experience in outpatient mental health case management is an asset.
• A combination of institutional and community experience may be considered.

• BSW, OT, PT, BSc PN, RPN, BN, RN, SLP, RD, or related health/human service degree required from an accredited educational institution.
• Additional educational upgrading is considered an asset.
• Specific discipline required will be based on the operational needs of the inter-disciplinary team.

• Active member in good standing of an associated regulatory body as appropriate and ensures ongoing compliance and registration with regulatory body.
• Requires a valid driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle; travel occurs throughout Winnipeg, surrounding areas, and rural Manitoba.
• This position is subject to a Criminal Record Check, as well as Adult and Child Abuse (including vulnerable sector) Record Checks.
• If successful applicant is a Registered Dietitian, must be a graduate of a recognized dietetic internship program accredited by Dietitians of Canada.

• Working knowledge of the forensic mental health and criminal justice systems in Manitoba is an asset.
• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of severe and persistent mental illness, including recovery-oriented care, cultural safety, and trauma-informed care.
• Integrated understanding of social determinants of health, health equity, and structural barriers that may affect engagement and access to treatment.
• Working knowledge of the Mental Health Act of Manitoba, Personal Health Information Act, Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, The Adults Living with an Intellectual Disability Act, and Protection of Persons in Care Act. Knowledge of the Criminal Code of Canada - particularly sections pertaining to mentally disordered offenders - is an asset.
• In consultation with the psychiatrist, demonstrates practical working knowledge of psychiatric medications.
• Working knowledge of harm reduction principles.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills related to individual and group counselling, and/or facilitation of both therapeutic and psychoeducation groups.
• Demonstrated ability to engage with individuals and their families from diverse cultural, social, and ethnic backgrounds.
• Experience in providing case management for individuals in community.
• Skills in assessing, planning, and coordinating comprehensive supports for individuals residing in community.
• Effective networking and agency relations skills with demonstrated ability to develop partnerships with external agencies.
• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  Practical knowledge of Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) required.
• The provincial health system in Manitoba has adopted the LEADS in a Caring Environment framework.

• May be required to work safely in a typical computerized office environment with frequent meetings.
• Required to travel throughout the service area, including rural Manitoba. A valid Manitoba driver’s license and use of a personal motor vehicle are required.