The Department of Health and Social Services works under the direction of the Minister and Deputy Minister, in partnership with the Health and Social Services Authorities, to support the health and wellbeing of people across the NWT through planning, development, evaluation and reporting on program and service delivery.
HSS is committed to the development and provision of quality services in such a way as to make the best use of public resources, ensure the sustainability of the system, focus on client safety and best practices and promote positive health and social outcomes. HSS strives to continually improve the health and social service system to ensure best health, best care, and a better future for the people of the NWT.
The Mental Health Specialist, Addictions, provides strategic leadership, consultation, monitoring, and evaluation to the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), Health and Social Services Authorities, community agencies, and key partners to strengthen mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery programs and services across the Northwest Territories.
This position plays a critical role in addressing complex mental wellness and substance use challenges in the NWT, including the impacts of trauma, family and institutional violence, and the social and emotional well-being of children, youth, adults, and families.
Through collaboration, evidence-informed planning, and system improvement initiatives, the incumbent supports the development of accessible, culturally responsive, and effective services that promote wellness, recovery, and positive outcomes for NWT residents.
Key Responsibilities
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Build and maintain strong partnerships with Health and Social Services Authorities, community organizations, Indigenous governments, and other stakeholders to advance mental wellness and substance use initiatives across the NWT.
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Support the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of mental wellness, substance use, and addictions recovery programs and services.
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Monitor and evaluate territorial programs and initiatives to ensure services are accessible, effective, and responsive to community needs.
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Contribute to the development and implementation of territorial strategies, policies, and priorities related to mental wellness and substance use health.
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Research emerging trends and best practices to inform program development and system improvements.
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Help shape a comprehensive continuum of care that includes prevention, early intervention, treatment, recovery, and wellness promotion.
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Lead and support projects that address identified needs, improve outcomes, and strengthen performance measurement across the system.
Key Qualifications
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A degree in a mental health and/or substance use health field, such as social work, Psychology, Nursing, or a related field/discipline and three (3) years of related experience in mental health and/or substance use health.
- Related fields may include health policy management and evaluation.
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Equivalencies may include:
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A master's degree in a mental health and/or substance use health field, such as social work, Psychology, Nursing, or a related field/discipline and one (1) year of related experience in mental health and/or substance use health.
- A diploma in in a mental health and/or substance use health field, such as social work, Psychology, Nursing, or a related field/discipline and five (5) years of related experience in mental health and/or substance use health.
Additional Requirements
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If a part of a self-regulated profession (i.e., Social Work, CANNN, etc.), the applicant must be registered with / a member of the appropriate governing body or be eligible for registration.
Inquiries Only:
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
YELLOWKNIFE CENTRE 5TH FLOOR
BOX 1320 YELLOWKNIFE NT X1A 2L9
Tel (867) 767-9154 Extension 14106
Fax (867) 873-0445
[email protected]
Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.
