Gender Based Violence Counsellor

**Gender Based Violence (GBV) Counsellor**
- Are you a counsellor passionate about supporting women who have experienced GBV? Do you enjoy facilitating programs and groups designed to provide resources and education on the impacts of trauma and violence, support healing, and foster leadership? Then this may be the opportunity for you_

**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.

HWS is part of a Joint Venture with a sister shelter in Middlesex County. As part of our collaboration, we leverage resources and talent across the region for greater impact and development opportunities. In this role, your home organization will be within Huron County; however, at times your duties and responsibilities may be across the Joint Venture and supporting two organizations.

**Job Purpose**

Reporting to the Senior 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 closely with the HWS 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.
- Develops and maintains therapeutic relationships with 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.
- Keeps abreast of trends, opportunities, and education related to GBV, ensuring programs are responsive, progressive, and reflects best practices.
- Provides advocacy, resources and information, including referrals to other appropriate supports.
- Acts as a resource to HWS team; participates in case consults and share techniques, strategies, and education related to impacts of GBV.
- Where appropriate, liaise with community partners and represent HWS at community planning tables or events.
- Maintains client files and documentation according to HWS policies.

**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 facilitate relationships across sectors and foster collaboration.
- Ability to work independently as well as within a team with mínimal supervision.
- Strong administrative, organizational, and written 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, First Aid (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).

**Working Conditions**
- The GBV Counsellor works primarily in an office environment within our Emergency Shelter location; however, the position will also require travel across the community and working in non-standard workplaces.
- 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.

**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

**Salary**: $25.00-$30.00 per hour

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- On-site parking
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Schedule:

- Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2023-08-02