Youth Substance Use Counsellor

Wage Grid 13

Last Date to Apply:

July 17, 2026

About the Program

The CAPS program is the Fraser Health outpatient clinic for substance use supports in Chilliwack. CAPS supports youth, adults, and families from ages 13+ by providing a wide range of alcohol and drug prevention and treatment services, specific to the participants’ identified needs. Options include counselling, outreach, relapse prevention, support groups, substance-affected support for friends and family, and referrals to treatment programs. Our Indigenous Wellness program operates alongside CAPS to provide culturally-appropriate healing and counselling for our First Nations individuals.

Hours & Conditions of Work

• Regular Full Time


• 35 hours weekly


• Typically Monday to Friday during daytime/school hours. Also possibilities for evening groups or presentations.

Position Summary:

Pacific Community Resources Society requires a full time Youth Substance Use Counsellor. The Youth Substance Use Counsellor is a member of Chilliwack Addiction and Prevention program, and will provide individual alcohol and drug support and counselling services to youth (aged 13-24) residing in Chilliwack. This counsellor will work out of the high schools in Chilliwack, in community settings, and at the PCRS Chilliwack office on Hocking Ave. Their primary role is to engage in one-to-one substance use counselling, and to liaise and provide support and presentations to local schools. As needed, the counsellor may be required to organize and facilitate groups, organize and participate in recreation activities, and provide services at other local youth organizations. This role is also an integral part of our larger Chilliwack youth substance use team that provides youth programming and outdoor recreation opportunities.
This role requires a sound understanding of learning disabilities and brain-based disabilities (including FASD, ADHD), barriers to support, addictions theory, motivational theory, the effects of abuse and trauma and Indigenous culture. Specific skills in physical and recreational activities and life skills instruction are an asset.

Responsibilities

• To Provide One-to-One Counselling and Support Services, including referrals to treatment and community for additional services


• Liaise with SD33, attend the CARY monthly meeting, and other members of the youth’s care team


• To Operate and/or Co-facilitate Groups


• Work as an Active Member of the CAPS Outpatient Treatment Team, alongside the adult counselling team and the Indigenous Wellness counsellor


• Maintain all Administrative duties including case management, assessment, quarterly stat collection in compliance with the organization and with the Fraser Health contract


• Maintain a safe and inclusive work environment, aligning with Health and Safety and PCRS values

Knowledge & Competencies

• Knowledge of normal and delayed or problematic development and behaviour, barriers to support, addictions theory, motivational theory, the effects of abuse and trauma, and Indigenous culture.


• Sound judgement and effective interpersonal skills


• Clear communication skills, verbal and written


• Trauma-informed practice and suicide intervention training


• Substance Abuse/Addictions Counselling Training


• Brain-Based Disabilities Learning Disabilities training including FASD, ADHD, Early Childhood Education, Special Needs Specialized Training and experience in Health Promotion and/or Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Treatment


• Other certification in Recreation or Arts