Counsellor – Trauma & Healing Program

We are currently seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our Direct Care Team as a Counsellor in the Trauma & Healing Program at WRRC. The Counsellor will play a crucial role in providing trauma-informed therapeutic support to  women who have experienced Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) facilitating their journey towards healing and resilience.

The Counsellor works alongside the direct care team to support and help women in both the WRRC shelter and community programs.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Trauma-Informed and Holistic Counselling: Utilize trauma-informed therapeutic techniques to provide individual and group counselling to women who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic violence, or human trafficking recognizing the impact of trauma on their emotional, psychological, spiritual, and physical well-being. Maintains client files and documentation according to WRRC policies.
• Safety Planning and Risk Assessment: As part of the intake process and collaborating with clients, facilitates comprehensive and ongoing individualized risk assessments, and develops safety plans for all clients to address immediate safety concerns and prevent future harm.
• Bio-Psychosocial-Spiritual Assessment: Strong assessment skills using the BPSS model are essential. The counsellor will conduct comprehensive assessments to understand the factors impacting individuals affected by IPV and GBV. They will tailor treatment  plans based on biological, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects of trauma, within a trauma-informed framework.
• Cultural Humility Promotion: Advocate for and integrate cultural humility principles into organizational policies, procedures, and practices. Encourage a learning mindset that values kindness, humility, openness, and ongoing self-assessment in cross-cultural interactions.
• Advocacy and System Navigation: Advocate for clients within various systems, including legal, healthcare, and social services, to ensure access to resources and support that promote their safety and well-being.
• Education Delivery: Deliver psychoeducation to individuals impacted by IPV/GBV, providing insights into trauma dynamics and coping strategies. This information can empower individuals with knowledge about safety planning and available support services, fostering informed decision-making and self-advocacy.
• Programming: Facilitate programming that supports the wellbeing of those we serve. Manage and meet targets. Maintain direct service requirements as per funding requirements. Ensure all required reports are completed accurately and in a timely manner. Seek opportunities to share programs and services with the community at outreach events where fit.
• Collaborative Teamwork: Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary team members, including managers, advocates, outreach, and community partners, to provide comprehensive support and advocacy for clients. Attend and actively participate in Direct Care team meetings and case review sharing strategies and education as it relates. Work closely with the shelter team.
• Self-Care and Professional Development: Prioritize self-care practices and engage in ongoing professional development and continuous learning in trauma-informed care and anti-oppressive practices. Participation in relevant workshops, conferences, and supervision sessions is expected.

Working Conditions

This position may require flexible hours, to accommodate the diverse schedules of the clients the WRRC serves. This position will primarily be an in-person setting. Phone and virtual counselling services may also be required.

Education

• Undergraduate Degree in Social Work or Counselling, master's degree considered an asset.
• Be registered in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
• Demonstrate an understanding of Indigenous cultures, histories, and socio­ political contexts.

Experience:

• Minimum 2 years of therapeutic counselling experience, with specific experience in working with individuals who have experienced IPV/GBV and trauma.
• Previous experience in a trauma-informed care setting is highly desirable.
• Lived experience considered an asset for applicant who have engaged in their own personal therapy and healing.

Personal Characteristics:

• Demonstrates a sound understanding of trauma and violence informed care.
• Demonstrated understanding and respect for diverse cultural backgrounds, with the ability to adapt counseling approaches accordingly.
• Demonstrated women's advocacy skills, strong case planning skills and effective child/women-centered practice delivery.
• Superior communication, listening and assessment skills.
• Adherence to ethical guidelines and professional standards in all aspects of social work practice, ensuring client safety and confidentiality.
• Demonstrated organizational and multi-tasking skills.
• Good working knowledge of computer office technology and applications.

Certifications:

• Clean driver's abstract.
• Clear current Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC).
• CPR, First Aid Level C Certification.
• Additional certifications such as ASIST and CPI are assets.