Outreach Counsellor

We are hiring two Outreach Counsellors. One is a designated position for an individual who self-identifies as African Nova Scotian/African descent People.

Please indicate in your cover letter if you are applying for the designated position.

Our Opportunity:

Bryony House is currently looking for an Outreach Counsellor (also known as Outreach Coordinator) to join our team This role maintains a caseload and provides supportive counselling, advocacy, and outreach to women and their children affected by intimate partner violence. As an Outreach Counsellor, you will also represent Bryony House at public events, resource fairs, and partner agencies to ensure survivors are aware and can access support. We are seeking an individual with a strong understanding of the local community, gender-based violence frameworks, family and criminal court systems, and child welfare principles.

About Bryony House:

Bryony House (HTHA, Halifax Transition House Association) is Nova Scotia's first and largest transition house. Our services include operating a 24/7 emergency shelter and distress line for women, with or without children, experiencing intimate partner violence. We have Outreach Counsellors, Housing Support, Household staff (Cook, Household Coordinator, and Cleaner), Women's Counsellors, Child Care Counsellors, and relief and casual roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive referrals and provide supportive counselling, crisis intervention, and safety planning to women and children.

• Conduct needs assessments, develop individualized safety plans, and connect clients to community resources.

• Deliver programs and workshops that foster healing, resilience, and empowerment.

• Provide court accompaniment and emotional support for women involved in family court, domestic violence court, and criminal court proceedings.

• Support women involved with child protection, helping them navigate requirements, case plans, and hearings while advocating for their children's best interests.

• Represent Bryony House at community events, schools, and outreach activities; promote services and build strong partnerships.

• Participate in meetings, case conferences, and professional development while upholding organizational values and fostering an inclusive, safe workplace.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Social Work, Counselling, Women/Gender Studies, Psychology, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum 5 years' experience supporting women affected by intimate partner violence, trauma, or related issues.

• Strong knowledge of court systems and child welfare in Nova Scotia.

• Demonstrated working knowledge of the Jacqueline Campbell Danger Assessment tools and assessment.

• Knowledge of trauma-informed practice, harm reduction, and gender-based violence frameworks.

• Demonstrated experience and skills in crisis intervention – de-escalation strategies.

• Experienced in community outreach, public speaking, and resource coordination.

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Application Details:

Please submit a cover letter and resume via Indeed. On your cover letter, please provide an email address so we can contact you to arrange an interview. Applications will be accepted until 4:00 PM on October 21, 2025.

Bryony House is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities.

Bryony House is a unionized work environment: Public Service Alliance of Canada Local #80022

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $30.52-$37.52 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Benefits:

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Paid time off
• RRSP match
• Vision care

Work Location: In person