Counsellor Advocate

The opportunity

We have a 12-month fixed term, full time maternity leave position available based in our Dallas office.

About the role

The Child, Youth, Adults, and Family Team is looking for a post-graduate or equivalent professional with well-developed clinical and counselling skills, who can work with Refugee and Asylum Seeker—children, young people Adults and their families providing support to individuals in their home, community, onsite at Foundation House or in detention facilities. Significant experience in assessment, counselling and advocacy is essential for the role. A large proportion of client work occurs off site and on an outreach basis and some travel to other Foundation House sites and venues will also be required. (due to current COVID restrictions, majority of the work is currently being done remotely)

About you

• Degree qualified as a psychologist, social worker, and counsellor or relevant university degree similar.
• Ability to demonstrate your experience providing therapeutic interventions, advocacy, and risk assessment.
• Demonstrated understanding of trauma informed practice models in working with adults, children, and families with refugee trauma background families.
• Experience in a range of approaches in supporting complex cases such as mental health, family violence, substance abuse issues.

This role is well suited to candidates who are organised, client-focused and who can effectively manage tasks and deadlines while maintaining a high degree of self-awareness and professionalism. You will also demonstrate a positive, creative, and collaborative approach to the delivery of these vital services. Previous experience in working or with Refugees and Asylum Seekers will be highly regarded.

Key Selection Criteria

• Counselling skills for complex trauma including knowledge of a range of suitable interventions, using a trauma informed and systems-based framework.
• Experience with advocating on behalf of refugees, asylum seekers, or other vulnerable clients regarding a range of issues related to health, welfare, legal and government.
• Expert knowledge in trauma and its psychosocial impact on individuals, families, and communities.
• Preparation of reports for medical and allied health professionals, other services and government bodies, and protection visa applications where required.

Salary and Benefits

Remuneration is based on our Enterprise Agreement 2014 of $96,804 gross salary per annum, plus 17.5% leave loading and 10% superannuation. Additional benefits include salary packaging up to $18,550, a range of flexible working options, a highly supportive team environment, excellent training and development opportunities, and onsite parking.

VFST is an equal opportunity employer.

VFST promotes the safety and well-being of children.

Conditional employment requirements:

1. Satisfactory police check
2. Working with Children Check
3. Proof of the right to work and live in Australia.