Clinical Nurse Specialist

UNIT PROFILE:
The Mood Disorders Program employs a multidisciplinary team who assess and treat individuals with unipolar depression and bipolar disorder. The Program optimizes a variety of proven treatment strategies (pharmacotherapy, group therapies, psychoeducation) with the aim of controlling the symptoms of a mood disorder, as well as supporting the recovery and rehabilitation of the person.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) provides expert consultation, comprehensive assessment and evidence-based treatment for patients with mood disorders and is a nursing leader working closely with members of the multidisciplinary team to provide excellent patient care. The CNS conducts research to advance the understanding of mood disorders, engages in program evaluation, development of services, and knowledge translation, integrating research and clinical practice to ensure best practice standards. The CNS provides education and training related to mood disorders and evidence-based management. All duties and responsibilities of the CNS will follow the College of Nurses of Ontario Standards of Practice, and the Standards of Behaviour of St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton. The CNS will work in the four domains of Clinician, Educator, Administrator and Researcher.

QUALIFICATIONS:
•Current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario required
•Masters Degree in Nursing required
•CNA Specialty Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing preferred
•Minimum 5 years demonstrated advanced mental health expertise (clinical and research)
•Training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) required
•Expertise in statistical data analysis and knowledge of software packages (ie. SPSS, SAS) required
•Advanced knowledge in the area of mood and anxiety disorders and evidence-based assessment and treatment
•Current BCLS certification
•Eligible for joint faculty appointment at McMaster University (Nursing, Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences)
•Membership in provincial, federal or international professional nursing associations preferred
•Knowledge of therapeutic communication skills, and counselling techniques with an emphasis on CBT
•Experience working with adolescents and adults with mood disorders
•Demonstrated research track record (external grant funding, peer reviewed publications)
•Demonstrated expertise in undergraduate nursing education
•Good work performance and attendance record is essential

St. Joseph's Nursing Vision is to make a difference in the lives of those we care for, our organization, and the future of our community through achievement of excellence in nursing and commitment to a culture of nursing innovation, empowerment, leadership and accountability.