Traditional Indigenous Healer

Encompass Support Services Society is an accredited, non-profit organization that provides a wide range of programs and support services in Langley and Aldergrove for over 25 years. We help to build strong, sustainable communities by offering inclusive, accessible services tailored to meet the changing needs of the individuals and community we serve.

At Encompass, we are committed to a journey towards cultural humility and safety; for the well-being of those we serve and those, we work along-side. We gratefully acknowledge that the programs, services and offices of Encompass are on the unceded, sovereign Indigenous lands of the Coast Salish People. This includes the territories of Kwantlen, Katzie, Matsqui and Semiahmoo First Nations. We also acknowledge the diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis people who make Langley their home.

Our purpose is to strengthen the health and vitality of community by identifying and responding to community needs, collaborating to enhance the lives of those we serve, while cultivating effective and sustainable partnerships.

Our vision is to empower individuals, to connect people, and to enrich lives. We value Integrity, Inclusion, Collaboration, and Community.
 
Our programs and supports are designed to build new skills, to foster healthy, productive lifestyles and to improve access to services within our community. Services are low-barrier, all-inclusive and at no cost to participants. Annually, we provide services to over 2500 individuals and families.

The Opportunity

The Traditional Indigenous Healer provides traditional healing, teachings, support and cultural connection to self-identified Indigenous survivors of sexual assault connected to our Encompass Sexual Assault Services Programs. This program provides trauma informed care to all individuals of any age who are survivors of sexual assault, including historical sexual assault regardless of whether they have reported the sexual assault to the police or other authorities.

JOB POSTING: 2026-0100 Traditional Indigenous Healer 
DATE: January 23, 2026
SALARY RANGE: As per the contract
HOURS OF WORK: Contracted position – typically 16, 4 hour sessions in one year, or about one 4 hour session every three weeks. Hours may be worked consecutively or distributed throughout the month                     
CLOSING DATE: Open until Filled

Key Duties and Responsibilities:
• Provides traditional healing, support and cultural connection to self-identified Indigenous survivors of sexual assault connected to our Encompass Sexual Assault Services Programs.
• Promotes an integrated approach to healing and wellness strategies by emphasizing traditional methods.
• Facilitates talking/healing circles, smudging and traditional ceremonies.
• Supports participants with consideration of the balance of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual elements impacted by the individual, their family, their community and the environment.
• Bridges western medicine practices with traditional ways by facilitating cultural practices and connecting participants to service and resources.
• Provides individual and group-based traditional teachings, spiritual counselling, cultural supports and healing ceremonies for participants and their families.

• Uses a Trauma-informed, client-centered and culturally responsive approach to support the emotional and practical needs of participants, and, as appropriate, members of their family or support network, to assist participants in addressing the impacts of sexual assault and trauma.
• Works collaboratively alongside the Encompass team and other service providers that may be involved with the participants, including support workers, counsellors, medical professionals, justice professionals, and others.
• Supports other Encompass programs to provide advocacy, consultation and support to Indigenous participants.
• Works with participants with diverse backgrounds, cultural belief systems and from various communities. This includes people who may identify as First Nations, Inuit or Métis, Two-Spirit or as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
• Supports a harm reduction approach when working with issues related to substance use and mental health.
• Assists the program participants to assess their needs and strengths, goal-setting, care planning, discovering and pursuing passions and supporting emotional wellness, physical health and a strong sense of identity and belonging.
• Connects program participants to community resources, as appropriate.
• Shares with the team your knowledge in the areas of participant support, healing and safety.
• Contributes to sexual assault services program development and processes, statistical reporting requirements, continuous quality improvement and training/education.
• Liaises with other agencies, professionals, government staff and others in the community, as appropriate.
• Maintains related records and statistics and provides reports to the supervisor.
• May perform role in an office-based setting and may accompany participants onto the land for land-based healing practices.
• Performs other related duties as required.

B. Qualifications:

1. Education, Knowledge, and Experience
• First Nations, Inuit or Métis person who is recognized as a Traditional Healer by the Indigenous community
• Guided ongoing development with traditional Elders over the course of many years with a specific focus on traditional medicines and healing
• Experience providing cultural support to people who have experienced sexual assault
• Knowledge of health and traditional holistic healing methods
• Knowledge of local Indigenous cultures and issues affecting Indigenous children, families and communities
• Extensive knowledge of local Indigenous ceremonies and protocols and able to share knowledge with others
• Experience with Trauma-Informed Practice and education on the dynamics of sexual violence
• Experience working with vulnerable children, youth and adults
• Experience working with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community an asset

2. Skills and Abilities
• Ability to conduct traditional ceremonies for participants, families and communities
• Experienced with the use of traditional medicines and harvesting protocols
• Leads a healthy lifestyle and is a positive role model in the community

• Demonstrated skills in therapeutic engagement, group facilitation and the ability to work as part of a dynamic team
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Effective problem-solving, conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills
• Ability to provide caring, empathetic support and guidance
• Ability to be flexible, resourceful and possess good time management skills, including meeting administrative deadlines
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of trauma-informed and culturally appropriate principles of care
• Demonstrated knowledge of relevant Acts, pertinent regulations, policy, procedures and other statutory and certification requirements (such as the Mental Health Act; Adult Guardianship Act; Child, Family and Community Service Act; and Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act)
• Effective listening and consensus building skills that promote communication and a cooperative approach to problem solving and decision making
• Ability to work effectively with others in a multicultural environment, independently and as part of a team, including understanding the frameworks of other disciplines
• Ability to maintain professional integrity, boundaries, and confidentiality
• Ability to make effective referrals in a collaborative manner, reflecting in-depth knowledge of community resources and strong collaborative skills in working with other community partners
• Knowledge of systemic issues and risk factors facing underrepresented groups, particularly for Indigenous peoples and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community
• Knowledge and respect of the diversity of the BC population

3. Other Information
• Possessing a valid BC Class 5 Drivers’ license, access to a reliable vehicle, Business Insurance and acceptable drivers abstract (mileage paid for work use) would be considered an asset
• Police Information check including vulnerable sector check
• Current Emergency First Aid or willingness to obtain this certificate

At Encompass Support Services Society, we have prioritized equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to embed these principles in our programs and services and in fostering an environment of dignity, respect, and belonging. We encourage applications from persons with historical and/or current barriers to equity, who will work respectfully within our inclusive organization and diverse community.

In lieu of a resume and cover letter, applicants are welcomed to submit a video application. Please email your video at hr@encompass-supports.com and include the following information:
•    Introduction and educational background: Introduce yourself and provide a brief overview of your educational background and why you’re applying for the role.
•    Work experience: Please describe your previous/current role and responsibilities and how it is relevant to this position
•    Skills and Abilities: What specific skills or strengths do you bring to this role?
•    Do you have a valid Class 5 driver’s license and access to a personal vehicle?