Position Overview:

Tajikeimɨk is seeking a Tajikeyumk Coordinator to join our team in promoting mental wellness and wholistic healing within Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. Reporting to the Director of Mental Wellness and Healing, the ideal candidate will design, implement, and evaluate therapeutic activities that enhance emotional, social, and physical well-being. This role will incorporate Mi’kmaw cultural practices into therapy, supporting individuals and communities in their journey towards wellness.

What you’ll do:

Specific responsibilities will include, but will not be limited to:

• Design, plan, implement and evaluate therapeutic activities and programs
• that enhance the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of individuals and communities.
• Use a wholistic approach to integrate Mi’kmaw cultural practices, traditional activities, and healing methods into therapeutic activities.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and activities, adjusting as needed to ensure positive outcomes.
• Assess community and clients’ needs and create personalized therapeutic activities to support their healing and wellness goals.
• Facilitate group and individual therapeutic activities that promote social engagement, skill development, and community connections.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals, community care teams, and partners to ensure coordinated care and a wholistic approach to wellness.
• Provide education and training to community members and caregivers on the benefits of therapeutic activities as alternatives to clinical care.
• Foster an environment that encourages participation, healing, and wellness through safe, culturally relevant recreational activities.
• Promote self-care, personal empowerment, and emotional resilience through therapeutic exercises and experiences.
• Other related duties as part of the Tajikeimik team.

Your qualifications:

• A degree in Recreational Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or Social Work (MSW)with a focus on Indigenous healing. A background in Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Land-Based Healing, or Mental Health and Addiction with an emphasis on alternative approaches to client care will be considered.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in developing, implementing and evaluating therapeutic activities and programs, 2-3 years within Indigenous or community-based settings.
• Strong understanding of mental health and wellness, particularly in relation to trauma-informed care and community healing practices.
• Experience in integrating cultural practices and traditions into therapy activities and programs, with a focus on L’nu culture.
• Knowledge of the principles of group dynamics, activity planning, and client-centred therapy.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, based on program needs.
• Ability to speak Mi’kmaw is a requirement.
• Ability to write in Mi’kmaw would be considered an asset.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel throughout Nova Scotia.
• An up-to-date Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Registry Check.

What we’re looking for:

• Experience in designing and implementing recreational therapy programs, preferably within Indigenous or community settings.
• Strong understanding of L’nu culture, traditions, and healing practices, with demonstrated ability to integrate them into therapeutic activities.
• Knowledge of mental health, wellness, and trauma-informed care practices.
• Ability to assess individual and group needs and develop tailored therapeutic activities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with clients and community members of diverse backgrounds.
• Creative and resourceful, with the ability to adapt activities and programs to meet the needs of participants.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Compassionate and empathetic, with a commitment to supporting individuals in their healing journey.
• Collaborative team player, with the ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Passion for promoting physical, emotional, spiritual and social wellness through recreational therapy.
• Passion and commitment to advancing Mi’kmaw health and wellness through self-determination over health resources.
• Alignment with Tajikeimik’s mission and a deep understanding of the importance of culturally grounded practices.

Salary: to be negotiated based on experience.
Location: Millbrook or Membertou with the possibility of a hybrid at home working model.

Please email your resume and cover letter in confidence to taji@mhwns.ca, citing “Tajikeyumk Coordinator - Tajikeimik” in the subject line.

We appreciate all expressed interest in the position; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Preference will be given to Mi’kmaw applicants

The Organization:
Tajikeimik is the new and developing health and wellness organization being created to lead health transformation on behalf of Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia. In collaboration with Chiefs, Grand Council, and Health Directors, Tajikeimik will build on and evolve the health and wellness services and programs used by Mi’kmaw people in Nova Scotia; improve health service delivery; and strengthen coordination with Federal and Provincial health system partners – with the goal of improving overall health for Mi’kmaq and communities.

Elukuti’kw wjit naji-wlo’ltinenew utanminal.
We are working toward better health for all in our communities.