Domestic Violence Outreach Counselor

Supervisor: Coordinator of Counseling

Department: CSS

Status: Fulltime

Grade: Exempt

Summary

The Domestic Violence Outreach Counselor position, at the direction of and in collaboration with the Coordinator of Counseling, has the responsibility of the provision of all direct counseling services to survivors of domestic violence at YWCA sites as well as with co-located partner sites throughout Union County. This position will work closely with the Coordinator of Counseling as well as with leadership of community partners to assist in the development and maintenance of a safe and confidential atmosphere for all clients of the YWCA.

Experience/Knowledge/Specialized

Training Must possess a Masters Degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology or related field. Should have at least 1 year experience working in the field of domestic violence. Must have knowledge and understanding of domestic violence and trauma. Must demonstrate cultural competency in experience or education. Excellent verbal and written skills are a must. Must possess strong public speaking skills. Knowledge of computer programs including but not limited to Microsoft office, PowerPoint and Excel. Must be bilingual in Spanish.

Essential Job Duties

Counseling

• Responsible for ensuring the following services are provided to non-residential clients: individual counseling, support groups, advocacy, provide domestic violence information and referrals to outside agencies, refer to YWCA programs as appropriate.
• Provide individual counseling and support groups in partner agency sites in at least 3 different municipalities to serve victims who are unwilling or unable to come to YWCA sites.
• Provide counseling services to clients accessing the future Union County Family Justice Center, once operational.
• Provide the following direct services: intakes/exit interviews, initial individual counseling sessions (including safety planning, education, assessment for services) and psycho-educational group counseling, client advocacy and referral.
• Meet walk-in clientele as needed.
• Conduct Family Violence Option (FVO) Assessments as needed.
• Conduct services at various YWCA locations as needed.

Recruitment/Outreach

• Ensure that the public and other service providers are aware of YWCA Union County's counseling services program.
• Provide trainings and educational seminars and other awareness-raising events to different groups throughout Union County to educate on the signs and symptoms of domestic violence, identifying victims of domestic violence, and how to assess and refer appropriately for services.
• Assist in providing technical assistance and/or training to volunteers and other community groups.
• Update outreach materials and maintain material for curriculum and procedures.
• Work in conjunction with the Coordinator of Counseling, Director of Community Support Services, and the Assistant Executive Director to ensure that all communities within the service area of Union County are served.

Program Development

• Expand the services provided in the counseling program to meet the needs of diverse communities.
• Collaboration with agency leadership staff to ensure that program is directed by agency goals and priorities as indicated in the Strategic Plan.

Documentation / Supervision

• Responsible for grant management in the form of reporting and statistics for outreach counseling, including coordinating application writing, report preparation and acting as a liaison with contract monitors, assuring that required levels of services are maintained. Documentation: maintain case records for clients, complete service schedules, and maintain other records as needed.
• Participate in supervisory meetings on a weekly basis.
• Attend monthly staff and Intra-program Counselor Group/Case Management meetings, as well as weekly Case Review with shelter staff.
• Complete statistical and narrative reports monthly or as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisory personnel.

Job Requirements

• Maintain flexibility in schedule to meet client needs.
• Be available for some evenings and weekend interventions with clients.

This job description is a broad outline of the responsibilities and duties that will be amended as needed to meet the program priorities of the YWCA Union County and their ensuring work requirements. It should not be construed as a contract.

The Mission of the YWCA-Union County

The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

YWCA Eastern Union County Core Values

Commitment to the mission and working together for the well-being of the community

Integrity in relationships, practices, and decisions.

Respect for each one's roles, diversity, and viewpoints.

Compassion in understanding, attitude, and action.

Empowerment to create positive choices, recognize potential, and reach goals.

Excellence in practice and expectation.