About the role
The Diocese of Parramatta is committed to the highest standards of safeguarding and a zero-tolerance approach to abuse in any form. We are currently seeking a qualified and experienced Counsellor to join our Safeguarding – Prevention, Healing and Support Team in a permanent part-time role (0.4 FTE) 2 days per week or 15.20 hours.
We are seeking a qualified counselling professional with a strong, proven commitment to supporting and protecting vulnerable people. The ideal candidate will have experience working within the context of the Church’s ministries and parish activities and will share in the Gospel mission to care for the vulnerable by helping to build safe, respectful, and nurturing environments where the wellbeing of children and at-risk individuals is a priority.
In this meaningful role, you will provide trauma-informed support to individuals who have experienced harm, helping them on their journey toward healing. You will also contribute to maintaining an effective and accessible complaints management process, ensuring our safeguarding practices are compassionate, professional, and just.
About you
Key Responsibilities
- Provide counselling and therapeutic support using a trauma-informed approach:
Offer compassionate, professional counselling services to individuals affected by trauma, ensuring that all therapeutic interventions are guided by a trauma-informed approach. Tailor each session to meet the specific needs of the individual, fostering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for healing. - Support individuals impacted by abuse and assist them through their healing journey:
Offer holistic support to individuals who have experienced abuse, guiding them through their recovery process. Provide not only emotional and psychological assistance but also practical tools and resources, empowering them to regain a sense of control and resilience as they navigate their healing journey. - Work collaboratively to uphold a complaints management process that is respectful, transparent, and supportive:
Collaborate with colleagues and key stakeholders to maintain a complaints management system that prioritizes dignity, transparency, and fairness. Ensure that the process is accessible to all, while providing support to individuals involved, and ensuring that each concern is addressed promptly and with the utmost sensitivity.
What We’re Looking For:
- Relevant Qualifications in Counselling, Psychology, or a Related Field:
Possess appropriate academic qualifications in counselling, psychology, or a related discipline, providing a strong foundation for delivering effective and professional support.
- Proven Experience in Trauma-Informed Practice:
Demonstrate a solid background in trauma-informed care, with a track record of applying these principles in practical settings to support individuals impacted by abuse or distress. - Commitment to Safeguarding and Ethical Practice:
Exhibit a deep commitment to safeguarding vulnerable individuals and upholding ethical standards in all aspects of your work, ensuring that every action is guided by a strong moral compass and respect for the dignity of others.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others and supporting a safer community, we invite you to apply.
The Healing and Support Counsellor plays a vital role in the Diocese of Parramatta’s commitment to safeguarding and pastoral care. This role is responsible for:
Key Responsibilities:
- Respond to complaints and concerns raised by Diocesan parishes and agencies:
Provide timely, compassionate, and professional responses to safeguarding-related complaints and concerns. Engage in initial intake, assessment, and referral processes while ensuring adherence to diocesan protocols and maintaining confidentiality and dignity for all parties involved.
- Manage cases within the Diocese’s Healing and Support framework:
Deliver coordinated case management services to individuals impacted by abuse, ensuring that each case is handled with sensitivity, accountability, and respect. Monitor progress, provide ongoing support, and collaborate with internal teams and external service providers to achieve positive outcomes.
- Develop and implement trauma-informed strategies to support survivors of abuse, their families, and carers:
Create tailored support plans that promote healing and recovery for survivors and their support networks. Utilise a trauma-informed approach that recognises the long-term impact of abuse, and foster safe, empathetic, and empowering environments throughout the support process.
Skills and Experience
- Proven professional counselling experience in the areas of child abuse and related trauma.
- Extensive experience in case management procedures and providing trauma-informed care.
- In-depth understanding of the Catholic Church and its parish communities, including specific challenges and support systems.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clergy, social services, and community groups.
- Strong ability to work with discretion, maintaining strict confidentiality in sensitive matters.
- Well-developed knowledge of abuse dynamics, as well as relevant child protection legislation and Respect@Work legislation.
- Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to resolve conflicts effectively.
- Excellent record management skills, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to privacy regulations.
Essential Qualifications
- Tertiary Qualifications in Counselling or Psychology:
A degree or equivalent qualification in Counselling, Psychology, or a related field, providing the necessary foundation for professional practice along with holding the relevant membership of professional body (PACFA, ACA and ARCAP | CCAA) etc. - Current Working With Children Check
Valid certification demonstrating compliance with child protection requirements, ensuring the ability to work safely with children and vulnerable individuals. - National Police Check:
A current police check, verifying a clear criminal history and suitability for working in a role that requires trust and integrity. - Current Driver’s Licence:
A valid driver’s licence, enabling travel for work-related purposes, as required.
Apply for this role
Applications will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
Applications for the position should include:
- A covering letter explaining why you are interested in the position, why you’re a good fit, and how you meet the Essential Requirements.
- Curriculum Vitae.
For a confidential chat, please email your details to [email protected]
The Diocese of Parramatta is a child safe organisation and is committed to providing child safe communities that recognise and uphold the dignity and rights of all children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
The Diocese of Parramatta is respectful and accepting of individual differences and is committed to embracing diversity and treating all people with dignity. We welcome applicants from all cultures, religions and backgrounds.
In all that we do in the course of our work, the Diocese of Parramatta acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands in which the Diocese of Parramatta sits, the land of the Darug and Gundungurra people.
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