Volunteer Opportunities

Do you have a love for animals and a passion for helping people?
One of the key aspects that make the Dreamcatcher™ programs successful are the many dedicated volunteers who commit their time to giving their time and talents. 
Volunteers assist in the following ways:
1.  Care for the animals
2. Assist with general maintenance of the Dreamcatcher™ site
3. Help implement programs and special events
4. Fund raise
5. Provide in-kind services such as bookkeeping, public relations, participating as a volunteer director on the board and much more
To get started please complete and submit the Volunteer Application Form

Employment Opportunities

Psychologist / Clinical Social Worker
Contract Job

Registered Psychologist / Clinical Social Worker 

Dreamcatcher™ Nature Assisted Therapy is a psychology private practice located on a ranch in Ardrossan, Alberta. Dreamcatcher’s population includes children and youth with neurodevelopmental challenges, multiple mental health diagnoses, trauma, addictions, emotional and behavioural concerns as well as people with a variety of disabilities. Dreamcatcher™ also provides services to adults with a range of life issues and people with complex needs.
 
Dreamcatcher™ therapists work in a natural setting with animals while conducting counselling and therapy sessions. Dreamcatcher™ is recruiting for a Registered Psychologist or Clinical Social Worker who is cross trained in Animal and Nature Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Equine Facilitated Counselling (EFC) methods. Experience in other mediums such as Talk, Art, Play, EMDR and Sand Tray therapies is an asset. The candidate will work on contract with the private practice starting with part-time hours with the intention of moving into a full-time contract position. A candidate willing to work evening or weekend hours is preferred and work hours can be flexible. Candidates must possess a minimum of a Master’s degree and be registered with their respective regulatory body. Social Workers must be on the Clinical Registry and Psychologists must be fully registered. Only those applicants meeting the minimum requirements will be contacted for interviews. Dreamcatcher™ thanks all applicants.

Statement of Qualifications:
1. Registered Psychologist, Clinical Social Worker with a minimum of a Master’s degree.
2. Minimum of 2 years experience working with children and youth with complex needs consisting of multiple mental health diagnoses, cognitive disabilities, emotional/behavioral issues, addictions and/or trauma backgrounds. 
3. Must have horse experience.
4. Must have a compassionate understanding and appreciation for animals of all species as well as for nature.
5. Must have a minimum of basic training in AAT and EFC or be willing to train.
6. Must be willing to work outdoors in all conditions if necessary, all seasons of the year.
7. Must be flexible in joining a growing team and be open to balancing a variety of tasks.

Assets:
1. Being of Indigenous Descent is a strong asset.
2. Preference will be given to those applicants with horse experience.
3. Being approved providers for FNIHB is preferred.
4. Being skilled in Assessments is preferred.

Please apply to: Eileen Bona
53044 RR #213
Ardrossan, AB
T8G 2C4
780-809-1047

Or Email: eileen@dreamcatcherassociation.com OR Fax #: (780) 809-1046 
Deadline: Open

 

Dog Trainer
Contract Job
 
The Dog Trainer works under the supervision of the Animal Behaviour Specialist to teach specialized group dog training classes and private consults both on and off-site. Dreamcatcher™’s dog training classes are specifically designed for people interested in training their dogs to work in the field of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI).
 
Primary Responsibilities:

• Teach introductory level group dog training classes for people interested in training their dogs for the field of Animal Assisted Interventions (AAI)
• Teach advanced level small group dog training classes to teach more specific skills for dogs in AAI.
• Teach private consults to people seeking individualized assistance in preparing their dogs for AAI.
• Provide written feedback for advanced class and private consult students.
• Professionally represent and teach the best practice, science-based training methods to students with a variety of previous training experiences.
• Work with the Animal Behaviour Specialist and Academy Director to refine and build upon the existing dog training program.

 
Desired Qualifications:

• Minimum High School Diploma
• Preference for Bachelor’s degree in related fields such as psychology, zoology, biology.
• Experience working or volunteering with dogs using science-based training methods.
• Must have a science-based understanding of dog ethology, behaviour and training.
• Skilled at working compassionately with people and animals.
• Preference for candidates with experience in a human services field.
• Previous experience teaching people.
• Able to work proficiently independently.
• Able to work some evenings and weekends.
• Able to physically stand and walk for extended periods of time.

 
Terms of Employment:

• Part-time position
• Compensation to be determined based on skill and previous experience of the individual
• Must be able to pass basic security clearance

 
How to Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter in PDF to danielle@dreamcatcherassociation.com

Dreamcatcher™ Animal Assisted Wellness Academy 
Location: Ardrossan Alberta (with potential off-site work around the greater Edmonton area)
Deadline: April 15, 2020