Community Counsellor

**Job Summary**

To provide psychoeducational and/or therapeutic, community-based individual and group counselling to men and those who have used, or are at risk of using, violence or abuse in their intimate relationships and/or have been charged with a domestic violence related offence; to provide counselling to men* who have experienced abuse; to provide brief domestic violence intervention services to families at risk; to be a positive role model and advocate for healthy relationships.
- *includes trans-men, non-binary, and gender diverse individuals_
- __________________________________________

**Qualifications**
- Minimum post-secondary diploma/degree in social services, social work, or other related field is required
- Registered member in good standing with the Ontario College of RSW/SSW or the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, or eligible to register with one of these colleges, is preferred
- Related experience working in other social service organizations is required
- 3 years’ experience in delivering group and individual programming is preferred
- Experience in violence, threat, and/or risk assessment is preferred
- Excellent understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and gender-based violence and its impact on both the person experiencing abuse and the person who has caused the harm
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience working with diverse populations through an intersectional, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience utilizing crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques; Crisis Prevention/intervention training is an asset
- Police check with vulnerable sector screening is required
- Valid Standard First Aid/CPR training is required
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and access to insured vehicle
- Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs. is required
- Ability to speak a second language is an asset

**Essential Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities**
- Strong working knowledge of the Partner Assault Response (PAR) Program, the Probation & Parole system, the Criminal Court system, and the Child &Family Services system
- Strong group facilitation skills, with the ability to lead and manage group discussions and activities effectively
- Excellent knowledge of conflict resolution skills, healthy communication strategies, de-escalation strategies, and ability to manage crisis situations
- Excellent conflict resolution, healthy communication, and crisis management skills
- Excellent knowledge of Nova Vita’s programs and services
- Excellent knowledge of community resources in Brantford/Brant County
- Ability to manage a flexible work schedule, balance a caseload, and handle competing demands in a fast paced environment
- Ability to demonstrate initiative, creativity, flexibility, patience, and independence
- Ability to model healthy interpersonal relationships, including communication, conflict management, and boundary-setting
- Ability to take initiative, work in a team environment, and collaborate with community partners
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Excellent interpersonal, professional, and time management skills
- Proficient in Microsoft office, database entry, Zoom and other technology communication platforms

**Duties and Responsibilities**
- Conduct intakes and assessments for individuals who have used violence or abuse in their relationships
- Deliver group education and counselling services to men and individuals mandated by the court to attend due to a domestic violence-related criminal charge
- Provide support services, safety plans, and referrals to victims/survivors or current partners of individuals in the Challenge to Change program
- Provide effective brief intervention and/or case management services to individuals and/or families within a trauma-informed, harm-reduction, and inclusive framework
- Ensure timely and effective sharing of information with internal and external services where appropriate
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation
- Work cooperatively with staff, volunteers, students and community partners
- Work collaboratively with Police, Probation & Parole, the Crown Attorneys, and Child & Family Services as needed
- Actively participate on relevant internal and/or external committees
- Assist in the development and implementation of departmental programs and services
- Stay updated with relevant information and interventions for interpersonal violence
- Assume other duties and responsibilities as required

**Accountabilities**
- Adhere to a strict code of client confidentiality
- Comply with relevant legislation and Nova Vita policies and procedures
- Maintain health and safety requirements at all times, including COVID-19 prevention protocols
- Maintain professional and ethical boundaries with clients and community partners
- Complete all documentation as required and in a timely manner to meet professional standards
- Engage in reg