Cultural Wellness Worker

About Musqueam

We are traditional hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ speaking people. Today, we are a strong, growing community of over 1,300 members. We live on a small portion of our traditional territory, known as the Musqueam Indian Reserve, located south of Marine Drive near the mouth of the Fraser River. The name Musqueam relates back to the River Plant, the name of the plant is məθkʷəy̓. There is a story that has been passed on from generation to generation that explains how we became known as the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) - People of the River Plant. We have always moved throughout our territory using the resources it provides for fishing, hunting, trapping and gathering. We remain distinct and our cultural practices are strong, despite the devastating impacts of residential schools, colonial laws banning our ceremonies, and other attempts to assimilate our people. Our lands and waters continue to support our cultural and economic practices while serving as a source of knowledge and memory, encoded with our teachings and laws. To learn more about Musqueam, please visit www.musqueam.bc.ca 

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Mental Wellness Team Lead, the Culture and Wellness Worker will be responsible for walking alongside supporting Musqueam community members in their wellness journeys. The Wellness Worker understands the effects of systemic racism, intergenerational trauma, grief and other harms in relation to mental wellness in Indigenous communities. The Wellness worker supports Musqueam Indian Band and community members through culturally safe practices.

This role would include but not be limited to, counseling services, establishing goals and action plans to support wellness, providing crisis intervention and referral. The Wellness Worker would organize and facilitate therapeutic support groups, liaise with other service providers, accept referrals from other MIB Health staff, including the Musqueam Primary Care Clinicians.

This position is full time termed for 4 years based on funding, and can be extended if additional funding is recieved.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Supporting patients as they learn to self-advocate and assert personal agency
• One on one counselling and support sessions with MIB members and community members
• Promoting and supporting overall cultural wellness of the community consistent with Musqueam cultural values and vision
• Implementation of wellness strategies
• Assist in facilitating open communication with community members and their families (participating in client consultations, family meetings etc.)
• Provide training and teachings that continue strengthening knowledge of cultural wellness activities and strategies
• Practical knowledge of Indigenous programming is an asset

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology or other social sciences degree. Or an equivalent combination of experience and education
• At least 2 years’ experience in the mental health field
• An understanding of the BC healthcare system, including health care authorities, specialist referral systems, primary care clinics, insurance coverage, etc.
• An understanding of Musqueam community and local knowledge

• Knowledge and understanding of First Nations communities, health and social issues
• Cultural competency and knowledge of the MIB’s cultural traditions considered an asset
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality regarding patient medical information and records
• Creating opportunities to facilitate clients’ understanding and participation in health and healing initiatives

• Outstanding organizational and scheduling skills, ability to manage multiple patient profiles

• Tolerance and sensitivity to the needs of every individual and their right to be treated with respect and fairness
• Skill in the use of workplace technology, i.e. computers, communications equipment, business software.
• Excellent communication skills (spoken and written) and the ability to communicate tactfully with others
• The ability to professionally meet, and address the public, as well as provide information in a pleasant, helpful and confidential manner
• Ability to problem-solve and take initiative to resolve problems
• Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to effectively prioritize workload
• Ability to remain calm during periods of stress and resolve conflicts peacefully

• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle for work purposes
• Successful Criminal Record Check

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in an office environment and out in the community
• After hours work may occasionally be required due to program demands.

Why work for Musqueam?

• Competitive salary
• Training and career development
• Business casual environment
• Community fitness and gym access
• Comprehensive group benefits plan and pension plan
• Centrally located with free parking; free onsite gym and class access; close to nature trails at UBC and along the Fraser River, shops, restaurants and services.