Grief & Bereavement Counsellor

Thunder Bay, ON

JOIN OUR TEAM AND HELP LEAD WITH CARE, COMPASSION AND COMMITMENT!

ABOUT THE ROLE

Reporting to the Manager – Palliative & Transitional Care, the Grief & Bereavement Counsellor provides in person and virtual services to clients, Substitute Decision Makers (SDM), family members, and other support persons who have a range of concerns related to grief and loss, requiring Level 3 or Level 4 grief and bereavement support. The Grief and Bereavement Counsellor provides compassionate, accessible support to families and caregivers navigating grief and loss related to end of life, or bereavement. The role offers emotional and psychosocial assistance, connects individuals to community resources, and facilitates access to both individual, virtual and group-based supports. Key responsibilities include scheduling appointments, conducting clinical assessments, developing personalized treatment plans tailored to client’s needs and goals, offering short-term and long-term support, coordinating care, and leading or supporting grief support groups. The position collaborates with healthcare and community partners to provide grief and bereavement counselling and delivers culturally responsive support. The role maintains accurate, timely and confidential documentation in accordance with college standards and hospital documentation requirements.

The Grief and Bereavement Counsellor position requires autonomy, leadership and specialization in practice.

HIRING DEADLINE: January 13, 2026

Applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. However, consideration of submissions after the deadline will be at the organization's discretion. Applicants are encouraged to apply by the Hiring Deadline.

This posting is for a newly created position within the organization.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

At St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG), our diverse workforce strengthens our ability to provide culturally competent care and innovative solutions to the complex needs of our clients and communities. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, diverse race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, family status, religion, disability, and socioeconomic status, to help address under-representation and foster greater inclusivity and belonging at SJCG.

By promoting a culture of inclusion and mutual respect, we ensure that our values of care, compassion, and commitment are reflected in every aspect of our work. If you are passionate about making a difference in healthcare and are committed to upholding these values, we encourage you to apply and join us in our journey towards a more inclusive and equitable future.

St. Joseph's Care Group is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities in our job application and hiring process.

WHAT YOU BRING

Education/Experience:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) with training and/or certification in grief counseling
• Current registration with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
• Thorough knowledge of the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice as set out by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers
• Knowledge and experience with referral processes, intake, assessment and triage
• Extensive experience working with bereaved individuals
• Experience related to client care for people from Indigenous, geriatric, and addictions and mental health populations
• Preference will be given to candidates with an educational background that integrates Indigenous knowledge and social work practice

Skills/Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of values and ethics, theory and best practices of clinical social work
• Comprehensive understanding of the social determinants of health of Indigenous people and the social consequences and risk factors associated with client conditions (i.e. addictions, mental health)
• Advanced knowledge of family systems and family dynamic skills in working with families
• Advanced knowledge of community systems and resources for the purposes of networking between the facility/program and other services
• Ability to manage a complex clinical practice in a health care setting
• Ability to independently provide psychotherapy and group therapy
• Knowledge of various therapeutic modalities related to grief counseling
• Strong empathetic and listening skills
• Ability to develop and maintain effective therapeutic relationships
• High level of emotional intelligence and resilience
• Demonstrated leadership abilities
• Ability to complete complex analysis, using advanced clinical knowledge, skill and judgement to synthesize assessment information, provide a social work diagnosis, and develop appropriate psychosocial treatment plans to address psychosocial stressors that impact well-being.
• Assessment and treatment of complex psychosocial issues
• Expertise secondary to specialized training and experience related to Hospice Palliative and End of Life Care
• Ability to communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing
• Ability to work independently, interdependently, and participate as a contributing member of a variety of teams within the workplace, community, and ministries/agencies
• Strong time management, analytical/critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision making skills
• Ability to use independent judgement and maintain confidentiality of records, actions, and information
• Demonstrated regular attendance at work

Assets:

• Indigenous language fluency and/or Indigenous cultural education an asset

Conditions of Employment:

• This position shall be conditional upon a satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC) where indicated, to ensure the absence of relevant criminal convictions.
• May be required to travel to various work locations and provide own transportation

WHY JOIN ST. JOSEPH'S CARE GROUP

St. Joseph's Care Group (SJCG) offers a meaningful career for those seeking to make a difference in health care. As a leading provider of complex care, rehabilitation, long-term care, and mental health and addiction services, SJCG is recognized for its commitment to high-quality compassionate, and people-centred care.

Experience a rewarding career and lifestyle you’ll love at the heart of Thunder Bay! Here’s what awaits you when you join our team:

• Enjoy a Competitive, Forward-Thinking Compensation Package: We offer salaries and benefits that recognize your talent and dedication.
• Secure Your Future: Become a member of the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) – our organization will contribute $1.26 for every $1 you invest in your pension, ensuring a strong, stable retirement for your future.
• Make Your Move Easier: We provide relocation assistance to help you settle in (some conditions apply).
• Thrive in a Supportive Team: Grow your career and make meaningful contributions alongside dedicated and passionate colleagues.
• Commitment to Diversity: We are proud to be an inclusive workplace that celebrates the unique backgrounds, perspectives, and talents of every team member.
• Advance Your Skills: Access ongoing professional development, advanced education, and a tuition loan program.
• Continuous Improvement: We foster a culture where every team member is empowered to identify opportunities for improvement and share ideas.
• Prioritize Your Wellbeing: Take advantage of comprehensive wellness initiatives and access to an Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Shape the Future: Get involved in research and teaching initiatives that make a real difference.
• Be Recognized and Rewarded: Benefit from employee recognition, discount, and referral programs.
• Live Where Adventure Meets Opportunity: Nestled on the stunning shores of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay offers the perfect blend of vibrant city life and breathtaking outdoor escapes.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

All job postings will follow the requirements outlined in the applicable collective agreement or the Terms & Conditions of Employment. If the job is not filled through this process, the posting will remain on our external site until the position is successfully filled.

Applicants who are part of the bargaining unit will be given priority consideration as set out in the relevant collective agreement. It is the applicant's responsibility to clearly demonstrate that they have the skills required for the position they are applying for.