Huron Women's Shelter - Gender Based Violence Counsellor

Huron Women's Shelter - Gender Based Violence Counsellor

Posted on Jan 27, 2025

ABOUT US

At HWS, we use a gender-based analysis plus (GBA+), trauma and violence informed framework to deliver prevention, education, crisis support and healing programs to women+ and their families who have been impacted by gender-based violence (GBV) in rural Huron County. Our services include a 24-hour helpline and emergency shelter, risk assessment and safety planning, advocacy, system navigation, individual and group healing opportunities, and community development.

JOB PURPOSE

Reporting to the Manager of Programs, the Gender Based Violence Counsellor is accountable for providing counselling services to women+ impacted by GBV (inclusive of Intimate Partner, Family and Sexual Violence). Through therapeutic counselling and support in both individual and group settings, the GBV Counsellor will create a safe and welcoming environment for women+ to heal from the impacts of GBV and abuse. As a Team Lead, the GBV Counsellor provides clinical consultation and leadership to their colleagues providing community-based therapeutic supports and services.

SCOPE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• As part of the intake process, facilitates comprehensive and individualized GBV risk assessment, and develops safety plans for all clients.
• Identify counselling goals and provides therapeutic counselling to women+ impacted by GBV, developing and nurturing healthy, professional relationships with clients.
• Contribute to the development of robust group programming offerings related to GBV psychoeducation, healthy coping strategies, peer support, healing, self-discovery and leadership.
• Provides team leadership, clinical consultation, and learning and development to HWS team members providing community-based therapeutic services and supports (approximately 2-4 roles).
• Keeps abreast of trends, opportunities, and education related to GBV ensuring programs are responsive, progressive, and reflect best practices.
• Provides advocacy, resources and information, including referrals to other appropriate supports.
• Acts as a resource to HWS team; provides case consultation and participates in wrap around and service coordination as necessary.
• Where appropriate, liaise with community partners and represent HWS at community planning tables or events.
• Maintains client files and documentation according to HWS policies.

A detailed role and responsibility document will be given to candidates offered an interview.

WHAT YOU BRING TO THE ROLE

You have a track record of successful therapeutic counseling in the gender-based violence sector, bringing with you a strong foundation, experience and understanding of the impacts of sexual violence and abuse, family and intimate partner violence. You possess excellent communication and relationship building skills, incorporating a feminist, gender-based analysis, and practice with trauma and violence informed care.

You are a professional with a love of learning, keeping abreast of promising practices, sharing your knowledge and insights with colleagues. You have natural leadership skills and experience providing case consultation and support to a clinical team.

You enjoy a fast-paced work environment and can balance multiple priorities, maintaining a calm, grounded demeanor in a crisis environment. You exhibit excellent communication skills, particularly in facilitating courageous conversations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's Degree in Social Work or Counselling.
• Registration in good standing with the appropriate college (i.e. OCSWSSW, CRPO).
• Minimum of 2 Years of counselling experience in GBV, experience with sexual violence and abuse an asset.
• Leadership skills and experience.
• Strong administrative and organizational skills, with high attention to detail.
• Computer proficiency with a variety of software applications; WISH database experience an asset.
• Valid driver’s license; access to a reliable vehicle and proof of adequate insurance.
• CPR and First Aid Level C Certificate (ASIST, CPI an asset).

LOCATION AND HOURS OF WORK

This is a full-time position at 35 hours a week, with the opportunity for hybrid office work part-time from our office located at 376 Huron Rd. Goderich ON, and from a suitable home office location. Occasional evenings and weekends may be required. The GBV Counsellor may also be required to travel across the community and may also be working in non-standard workplaces.

If this opportunity looks like a good fit for you, we would love to hear from you!

HWS is an equal opportunity employer and as such we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for fostering creativity and achieving our business goals.

We thank all those interested in the position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.