Join us at Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC) and become a catalyst for change in the lives of individuals navigating the complexities of addiction and mental health challenges. This is more than a job—it's a chance to make a real difference in your community and to grow with a team that values your expertise and passion.

About Peel Addiction Assessment & Referral Centre (PAARC):

PAARC is a notable not-for-profit charitable organization funded by the Ministry of Health, through Ontario Health Central Region. With full accreditation from the Canadian Centre for Accreditation, we're dedicated to providing comprehensive services to those dealing with alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming, and various behavioral dependencies, alongside supporting mental health challenges. Our commitment to a diverse, inclusive workplace and a person-centered approach underlines our services and team ethos.

About the role

In partnership with William Osler Health System in their Osler Addiction Consult Service (OACS), the Peer Mentor will enhance the clinical work of counsellors and other hospital staff by providing person-centred support from a lived experience perspective. Your role will involve direct support to patients in the Emergency Department with substance abuse and related problems including withdrawal management.

We are hiring for one (1) full-time, permanent role working at the Osler Addiction Consult Service centre and in the community as needed.

Benefits included: Mileage reimbursement, RRSP matching, group health/dental plan, LTD/life insurance, EAP, 4 weeks of vacation to start, professional development opportunities

What you'll do

• Work collaboratively with the Osler Addiction Consult Service, PAARC staff and other community partners (ie Punjabi Community Health Services and Canadian Mental Health Association Peel Dufferin) to provide peer support to clients/patients, enhancing their recovery journey
• Inspire and support clients in developing and achieving their recovery goals through sharing appropriate personal history in both an individual and group setting.
• Provide compassionate, peer-based support and practical guidance to clients as they navigate the Emergency Department, including offering reassurance, system navigation, and support during wait times and between interactions with other clinical staff throughout clinical assessments and treatment encounters.

• Co-facilitate educational and support groups with program clinicians present

• Accompany clients to appointments and distribute approved information to support program goals as appropriate
• Respond to crisis situations by providing or referring to crisis intervention

• Maintain an appropriate caseload according to program service targets

• Participate in service development discussions, team meetings, and training sessions as required.

• Maintain client file and maintain written and electronic documentation utilizing EMHWare, CATALYST and other required data collection and reporting systems.
• Represent PAARC at all times in a professional manner

Skills & Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to engage clients and provide support based on personal lived experience of addiction and recovery.

• Strong interpersonal skills, open, non-judgemental, and committed to professional growth and learning.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating adaptability, resiliency, and strong work ethics.

• Excellent emotional health and a balanced sense of self, serving as a positive role model for clients and peers.

Requirements

• Lived experience of addiction and active engagement in you own recovery process, including at least 2 years of recovery
• Demonstrated lived experience supporting individuals in substance use and/or mental health recovery through peer‑based approaches is considered an asset.

• Completion of Secondary School or equivalent education and experience is required
• Completion of a peer support or peer mentor certification or equivalent training program is required.

• Post secondary education is an asset

• Experience in substance abuse and knowledge of issues related to withdrawal management
• Ability to work within the harm reduction framework
• Demonstrated cultural competence and the ability to support a diverse patient population

• Non-violent crisis intervention, CPR, and First Aid Certification.

• Reliable and efficient transportation for community visits.

• A Criminal Records Check/Vulnerable Sector Screening is mandatory for all clinical positions at PAARC.
• Given that this role is primarily situated in a hospital setting, demonstrated experience working in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment is a significant asset.

Working Conditions

Working hours: Monday to Saturday rotating on Days/Evenings, 8 hour shifts, including weekends and statutory holidays (subject to change in accordance with operational requirements). Average 37.5 hours/week.

Work Location: in-hospital setting, community based work as required.

By joining our team at PAARC, you're not just accepting a job; you're embarking on a rewarding career path that offers growth, fulfillment, and the opportunity to contribute to a more inclusive, supportive community. Apply now to be part of a dynamic team where your work truly matters and helps transform lives every day.

PAARC is an Equal Opportunity Employer dedicated to accessible and inclusive employment practices in compliance with AODA. We value diversity and encourage all qualified candidates, including women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and Aboriginal Peoples, to apply. Our commitment extends through all recruitment stages. We encourage candidates to specify if they require any accommodation to ensure their full participation in the recruitment process, striving for an inclusive work environment where everyone is respected and valued.