Meagan – Outreach/Counsellor

AWIC interviewed different local professionals for an inside look into their work. You can learn more about Social and Community Service Workers (NOC 4212) through a detailed Career Profile.

Meagan Collver is a Anti Human Trafficking Outreach/Counsellor with Algoma Family Services in Sault Ste. Marie.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Program development, handling crisis’s, counselling.

What was the education and training needed for your job? Any additional training for your current position?

Bachelor of Social Work and a Registered Social Worker.

Why and when did you choose this career? What have you learned since you started?

To make a difference in the community. I started 6 years ago. I have learned community collaboration is key for making change.

What skills do you have that make you great at your job?

Empathy, compassion, patience and organization.

What is the biggest thing you have learned on the job?

You cannot save everyone.

What is the best part of your job?

Seeing people make small changes and recognizing their full potential.

What is something challenging about your job?

Government policy.

What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing the career?

It is a rewarding career, but make sure you take care of yourself.

How would you say COVID-19 has affected your day-today-work? (Job duties, commute, check-in process, etc.)

It affected my relationship with clients and effectively providing services to them.

What has it been like to be an essential worker during a world-wide pandemic?

It was stressful at the beginning trying to navigate and still provide services to the community.

Have you experienced loss or personal struggles since the beginning of the pandemic? How have you and your co-workers coped with working through the shut-down?

There have been quite a few clients who have passed away due to addiction and mental health. We have coped by having daily check ins and debriefing if needed.

Could you share how being an essential worker during the pandemic has made this more personally fulfilling career?

It has created more opportunities for growth and change. It has allowed Counselling to be down virtually which means more people are able to connect to services. I have been able to connect with clients and coworkers better as we all have been dealing with the hardships of the pandemic.