Domestic Violence Counselor

STATUS: Full Time (37.5 hours per week); Non-Exempt; Hourly REPORTS TO: Director of Programs DESCRIPTION The Counselor is responsible for providing individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, accompaniment, advocacy, and support to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.The Counselor will educate victims/survivors on their rights and available resources, and advocate within community systems to address the dynamics and issues related to domestic abuse and sexual assault. These include but are not limited to safety planning, self-sufficiency, and permanent housing in a safe, stable environment. They must be able to work a flexible schedule and be flexible to the changing needs of the organization and clients Services will be provided across multiple locations, including Safe Monroe’s offices and other community or partner sites as necessary. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree in Social Services or related fields required, Master's preferred. General knowledge and understanding of domestic and sexual abuse General knowledge and understanding of laws pertaining to domestic and sexual abuse Strong crisis intervention and counseling skills relating to victims of abuse, abuse and trauma Knowledge and understanding of the Social Work Code of Ethics Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, and experience with databases Maintain excellent written and oral communication skills Demonstrate flexibility in time, work schedule, and style Maintain a valid driver’s license, vehicle, required insurance coverage, and a safe driving record PA Act 33/34 and federal clearance must be obtained during trial employment period. Successful completion, during trial employment period, of PA domestic violence and sexual assault crisis intervention training as per 23 PA CS Sec. 6101-6118 and 23 PA CS Sec. 5495.1 and the PCADV and PCAR standards RESPONSIBILITIES Counseling and Empowerment Facilitate group and individual counseling activities from an empowerment model Assist victims of abuse with the development of individualized safety and goal plans Provide crisis intervention and supportive counseling to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual abuse and/or their significant others Conduct a face-to-face assessment and understand the client as a whole person and understand the connection between physical, environmental, behavioral, social, and economic factors Support the development of an individual plan collaboratively with participants that includes appropriate goals, objectives, and timeframes Implement the service plan by working with participants and other social service agencies as appropriate Conduct inspections of participants’ prospective housing to ensure it meets the minimum requirements outlined by HUD Advocacy Advocate on behalf of individual victims/survivors with various agencies and individuals, including legal and medical personnel, school personnel, employers, significant others, and/or Children & Youth Services Act as a liaison for medical systems advocacy Accompany victims/survivors to legal proceedings, medical appointments, and other supportive services as needed Collaborate and advocate with community groups on outreach/awareness events and training, such as with local higher education institutions, medical systems, and partner organizations Legislative Knowledge Understand and apply knowledge of PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) and other crime victim legislation necessary for providing services to victims/survivors who are incarcerated Documentation, Communication and Database Management Professionally document client contact Enter client notes, documentation, and statistics into the database Provide appropriate resource information and referrals Statistical and Administrative Duties Maintain statistical information, reports, forms, and other necessary files for the operation of direct service programs Stay informed about best practices and current trends in domestic and sexual abuse advocacy and attend training sessions, workshops, and conferences as required Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and case reviews Material Development Work with other staff on awareness and outreach activities and programs/presentations Assist in the development of materials to be used in the provision of direct services Participate in the 24-hour hotline, providing immediate support and assistance to callers in crisis Take hotline shifts during the week and weekends as needed Provide documentation of all hotline calls, including pertinent client information and details of provided assistance, to the Director of Programs in a timely manner Assist with emergency financial application forms and filing compensation claims to the Victim Compensation Program Trauma-informed and Self-Care Practices Integrate trauma-informed care practices into all aspects of service delivery, recognizing the impact of trauma on victims/survivors. Encourage clients to engage in self-care and personal empowerment strategies as part of their healing process. Practice self-care and maintain appropriate boundaries to prevent vicarious trauma and burnout, participating in regular supervision and professional development activities Professional Development Stay informed about best practices and current trends in domestic and sexual violence advocacy and attend training sessions, workshops, and conferences as required Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and case reviews Perform other responsibilities and duties as assigned #J-18808-Ljbffr