Join our Team - Lawyer Counsellor

The Lawyers Assistance Program of British Columbia is hiring a Lawyer Counsellor to work full-time with lawyers, their families and staff in the field of counselling assistance. Candidates must have at least 5 years as a practicing lawyer, a degree or certificate in counselling and/or experience in counselling. Preference will be given to candidates who possess empathy and other counselling skills, peer support, coupled with a willingness and desire to further their education and personal growth. Candidates must possess excellent communication skills and ability to perform as a public speaker.

The Program Lawyer will be an experienced licensed lawyer with JD/LLB, having a minimum five years' practice experience, a degree or certificate in counselling and/or experience in counselling. The candidate must:

• have empathy;
• be a good listener;
• be able to keep all clientele information confidential;
• have excellent communication skills;
• counselling and/or peer counselling skills with a preference to those with experience with impaired professionals;
• possess a willingness and desire to learn about lawyer well-being and how to be a helpful resource;
• preference to those with educational training in psychology, addictions, crisis intervention and support; and
• be a public speaker or workshop facilitator.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Report and be responsible to the Executive Director;
• Provide such assistance and support to the Executive Director as required;
• Act as the initial contact for intake;
• Be accessible to all members of the legal community (lawyers, judges, law students, legal staff) seeking assistance;
• Meet with and provide support, education, referral or counselling to members seeking assistance;
• Be able to travel to meet with members (both local and province wide) who wish to utilize the program (subject to COVID-19 restrictions);
• Research and have familiarity with referral resources such as individual health care providers (physicians, counsellors, therapists, etc.) and treatment programs available to assist in the development of a resource listing that is available to members or prospective members needing evaluation, treatment or aftercare;
• Market the Lawyers Assistance Program of BC throughout the province;
• Plan and present educational programs for the legal community, with respect to potential lawyer impairment, as well as treatment and prevention measures;
• Continue with personal and professional, education, training, and development; and
• Adhere to the values and principles of the Lawyers Assistance Program of BC, including confidentiality, personal responsibility, compassion, knowledge, and being present.

To apply for the position, please email info@lapbc.com.

‍