[Hiring] NAN Hope Virtual Care Wellness Navigator @Keewaytinook Okimakanak

Role Description

NAN Hope is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Full-Time Wellness Navigator to join our 24/7 Virtual Care team. Wellness Navigators provide immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, regional resource navigation, and referrals to individuals accessing the NAN Hope Help Line. This role requires a flexible schedule, as Wellness Navigators staff a 24/7 talk, text, and messaging support line. Responsibilities include:

• Provide personalized guidance and support to individuals and families seeking mental health, addictions, and wellness services; assess client needs and create individualized action plans.
• Connect clients with relevant mental health, addiction, and wellness resources, including community programs and professionals.
• Assist clients in navigating various systems, including mental health, legal, and social services, by supporting appointments, paperwork, and follow-up care.
• Deliver culturally relevant care grounded in Indigenous values, traditions, and holistic practices, ensuring alignment with community customs and spiritual beliefs.
• Offer immediate support during crises, including emotional support, safety planning, and connection to emergency resources.
• Build and maintain knowledge of local organizations and service providers to enhance the network of available resources.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions, progress, and referrals.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development to stay updated on best practices in mental health and crisis support.

Qualifications

• Degree, diploma or training in social service work, mental health, addictions support or a related field.
• Minimum two years relevant work or volunteer experience.
• Ability to build rapport with clients and establish trust to effectively understand and address their needs.
• In-depth understanding of community resources, mental health services, and social supports, with a focus on the unique needs of northern First Nations communities.
• Skills in providing immediate support and stabilization during crises, including effective de-escalation techniques.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly convey information and provide guidance to clients.
• Demonstrates empathy and compassion in all client interactions, providing support in a non-judgmental and understanding manner.
• Adherence to ethical standards, including maintaining client confidentiality and respecting professional boundaries.
• Competence in using technology and digital tools for client management, communication, and resource navigation.
• Ability to speak a NAN dialect (Cree, Oji-Cree or Ojibway) is considered an asset.
• Lived experience living or working in a NAN community is considered an asset.

Requirements

• Overnight, evenings and weekend availability is required.
• NAN Hope operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
• Applicants must be available to work a rotating schedule that includes:
• A 4-on 4-off rotation of 12-hour shifts.
• Alternating between Days (7am-7pm EST) & overnights (7pm-7am).
• Weekend & Statutory holidays.
• Occasional travel is required to training and engagement purposes.

Employment is Subject To

• A satisfactory vulnerable sector criminal record check.
• A private and secure home office environment with reliable and strong Wi-Fi connectivity.