Youth Grief Counsellor - Substance Use Services

About this position

LOCATION: Hybrid based out of Abbotsford BC.

HOURS: 30 hours per week term until April 2028 (with the possibility of extension)

COMPENSATION: $28.90 per hour + comprehensive benefits package (extended benefits, retirement plan) provided after a successful probationary period. Day/evening/weekend flexibility is required.

CLOSING: This post will remain active until the position is filled.

ABOUT US:

At Matsqui-Abbotsford Impact Society, we are dedicated to fostering meaningful impact through innovative, community-led initiatives. Our programs focus on supporting youth and families affected by substance use, mental health challenges, and systemic inequities. We are looking for a compassionate and experienced Youth Grief Counsellor to join our team and help provide crucial support to youth and families navigating grief and loss, particularly due to the toxic drug crisis.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Youth Grief Counsellor will play a critical role in developing and delivering individual and group grief counselling services for youth (under age 30) and their families who experience grief, loss and bereavement in the context of the toxic drug poisoning crisis. The counsellor will ensure trauma-informed, culturally safe, and youth-centered approaches are embedded throughout program delivery. This position will also contribute to outreach, resource development, and partnerships with other community organizations. This position with work collaboratively with the Youth Substance Use Services counselling team, under the supervision of the Director of Counselling.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Grief Counselling & Support:

• Provide individual counselling and group engagement to youth experiencing grief and bereavement in the context of the toxic drug poisioning crisis.

• Facilitate youth peer groups and help youth navigate their grief journeys in creative ways.

• Develop and deliver a grief support program, tailored to youth and family needs.

• Implement trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and culturally safe practices.

• Utilize creative therapeutic approaches such as art therapy, music therapy, storytelling, and mindfulness techniques.

Outreach & Community Engagement:

• Conduct outreach to identify and engage grieving youth, with a focus on underserved and marginalized communities.

• Develop partnerships with community organizations, schools, and Indigenous-led initiatives.

• Collaborate with Foundry, Child and Youth Mental Health (CYMH), and other key stakeholders to ensure wraparound support.

• Organize community events, workshops, and family-centered healing activities.

Resource Development & Evaluation:

• Create grief and bereavement resources, such as brochures, posters, and digital content.

• Contribute to program evaluation efforts, tracking participant engagement and program impact.

• Assist with the development of reports and funding applications as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Degree or Diploma in counselling, social work, psychology, or a related field (or equivalent experience in grief counselling, bereavement support, or trauma-informed care).

• Strong background in grief, loss, trauma, and youth-focused mental health support.

• Experience working with youth impacted by substance use, homelessness, or systemic barriers.

• Knowledge of Indigenous healing practices, cultural safety, and harm reduction approaches is highly desirable.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating with a team and external partners.

• Valid BC driver’s license and reliable transportation.

• A combination of education, professional and lived experience will be considered on an individual basis. Lived experience is an asset.