What does this job look like at AHS?

Family counsellors collaborate with clients to form therapy goals and treatment plans. They assess, diagnose and treat patients with relationship difficulties. They work to resolve problems that impair relationships and to improve personal well-being. Some potential issues that family counsellors may have to deal with include family violence, addictions and substance abuse, and mental health problems.

Counsellors provide a range of therapies that may include family, group and play therapy, or individual interventions. They help families to communicate their feelings and manage their behaviours. At times, they may support clients in difficult or crisis situations such as suicide, divorce, unemployment or other life transitions. Family counsellors assess high-risk behaviours (e.g., suicide, addictions and abuse) and determine an appropriate course of action, such as modifying an existing treatment plan, conducting an intervention or providing other resources.

Family counsellors work in a number of different including hospitals, offices and schools. They may work full-time or part-time hours. Shift schedules may include a combination of day, evening and weekend shifts. Some travelling may be required.

As family counsellors often deal with crisis situations and difficult relationships, and the work can be stressful and emotionally demanding. They may have to deal with verbally or physically aggressive clients.

To learn more visit Alberta Learning Information Services (ALIS).

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