Purpose:
In advancing the Division of Students' vision as 'Partners in Student Success', the Student Accessibility Services Department develops and implements individualized academic accommodation plans for students with disabilities, based on individual assessments. The incumbent assesses medical documentation and psycho-educational assessments and works closely with students registered with Student Accessibility Services, to explore how the disability or disabling condition affects access to learning and the learning environment. The incumbent uses this information, in combination with Ministry requirements, provincial law, industry standards, and clinical judgement to design and facilitate an individualized accommodation plan that ensures that York University is fulfilling its legal duty to accommodate. The Accessibility Counsellor/Educator works closely with faculty to ensure academic accommodations are implemented, and to ensure accommodations uphold academic integrity and the essential requirements of a specific courses and/or program. Collaboration with other campus partners, including faculty, Academic Advisors, Career Advisors, Counselling Services, Learning Skills Services and the Writing Centre is critical to providing holistic support to students. The position requires a service-focused professional who treats members of the community with respect, values their time, strives for personal best, and, collaborates to improve service experiences for all.
Education:
MSW, MA, or M.Ed. in Education, Counselling Psychology, Rehabilitation Sciences.
Experience:
Minimum of 3 years' experience in counselling adolescents and adults with disabilities. Familiarity with Psycho Educational Assessments, Cognitive and Personality Assessments an asset.
Skills:
Knowledge and understanding of psychoeducational testing and assessment instruments. Knowledge of a variety of mental health disabilities to ensure appropriate referrals and coordination of services. Coaching, training, advocacy skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills required to write support letters and other documents to advocate for students. Excellent empathic, advising and counselling skills to counsel students in distress and mediate and advocate for clientele. Promote initiatives to maintain positive client Relations.
Familiarity with disability related issues (e.g., legal, educational, financial) in a postsecondary educational environment. Familiarity with medical/ psychological reports and DSM diagnoses. Ability to develop academic accommodation plans based on knowledge of restrictions and limitations due to the nature of specific disabilities. Ability to plan and facilitate workshops and speak to large groups of people. Knowledge of the mental health system and community resources. Familiarity with a variety of individual clinical counselling approaches. Excellent skills as a group facilitator.
Basic computer skills (word-processing and knowledge of specialized technology such as speech-to-text programs). High level of multi-tasking required in job requires excellent organizational ability to manage competing priorities under time restraints.
Additional Notes:
Accessibility Counsellors have private offices.Note: All clinical and counselling activities require visual checking and listening carefully as well as ongoing attention and focus. Eye strain related to processing email, composing letters and other computer documents. Active listening.
Must be able to deal with frequent unanticipated interruptions and crises as they arise.
York's CPM Compensation Framework has a salary grid consisting of 6 or 8 steps (depending on job grade) which is reviewed annually with possible adjustments, and a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award. Employees will receive the grid adjustment and depending on performance, eligible permanent employees may move to the next step of the grid and may receive a lump sum Performance Based Recognition Award.Visit the CPM Compensation page on the HR Website to find out more about York's CPM Compensation Program.
The University welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including, but not limited to women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities (racialized), Indigenous Peoples and persons of any gender identity and sexual orientation. York University is committed to a positive, supportive and inclusive environment.
York University offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment processes. If you are contacted by York University regarding a job opportunity or testing, please advise if you require accommodation.
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PLEASE NOTE: Applications must be received by 11:55 pm EST on the posted deadline date, if applicable.