Gender Based Violence Counsellor

**Gender Based Violence (GBV) Counsellor - Full Time Continuing**

**About Us**

At HWS, we use a gender-based analysis (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 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 GBV Counsellor provides therapeutic, individual and group counselling and support, creating a safe and welcoming environment for women+ to heal from the impacts of GBV and abuse.

The GBV Counsellor works alongside the direct-service team to support and serve women in both our residential and community programs.

**Scope and Responsibilities**
- As part of the intake process, facilitates comprehensive and individualized risk assessment, and develops safety plans for all clients.
- Provides therapeutic counselling to women+ impacted by GBV.
- Develops and facilitates group programming related to GBV psychoeducation, healthy coping strategies, peer support, healing, self-discovery and leadership.
- Participates in case consults and shares techniques, strategies, and education related to impacts of GBV.
- Maintains client files and documentation according to HWS policies.

**Location**

This position will require the incumbent to work primarily at our Administrative and Shelter location, located at 376 Huron Road, Goderich ON. The position will also require travel across the community working in non-standard workplaces.

**Hours**

The GBV Counsellor is a full-time position at 35 hours a week, and will be required to work some evenings and weekends dependent on program activities.

**What you bring to the Role**
- Demonstrates a strong GBA+, and an understanding of trauma and violence informed care.
- Experience providing therapeutic counselling to women+ impacted by GBV.
- Experience developing and facilitating group programming.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to facilitate courageous conversations.
- Demonstrates strong advocacy skills and effective person-centered service delivery.
- Effectively facilitates relationships across sectors and fosters collaboration.
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team with mínimal supervision.
- Strong administrative, organizational, and written and oral communication skills.
- Valid driver’s license; access to a reliable vehicle and proof of adequate insurance.
- Clean driver’s abstract; clear current Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC)
- CPR and First Aid Level C Certificate (ASIST, CPI an asset)

Required Qualifications
- Undergraduate Degree in Social Work or Counselling, Masters Degree considered an asset.
- Minimum of 2 years of counselling experience in GBV.
- Registration and in good standing with an appropriate College (i.e. OCSWSSW, CRPO).

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

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

**Job Types**: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $27.00-$31.00 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Flexible schedule
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care
- Wellness program

Flexible Language Requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2024-05-19
Expected start date: 2024-06-03