Community Counsellor

The Higher Ground Drug Rehabilitation Trust was established in Auckland in 1984 as a Charitable Trust and is overseen by a Board of Trustees. Higher Ground provides quality abstinence based treatment, within a therapeutic community for the severely dependent. We provide rehabilitation programmes that are based on 12 Step recovery principles.

Based in Te Atatu, this great opportunity has opened up at Higher Ground and we are looking for a Community Counsellor to join our dedicated team of professionals. This is a permanent, full time (40 hours per week) position, Monday – Friday, which may involve one evening shift 12.30pm – 9.00pm. Some statutory holidays will also be required.

The Role:

In this role, you will:

· Respond to pre-admission enquiries

· Conduct intake interviews, formulate treatment pathways

· Provide ongoing support to clients throughout the pre-admission process

· Provide professional counselling for clients post treatment

· Facilitate continuing care and family group sessions.

Qualifications/Experience required for this position include:

• Level 7 qualification in a relevant discipline e.g. Mental Health, Alcohol & Drug Studies, Psychotherapy, Psychology, Counselling, Social work etc.
• Current practising certificate with a professional body e.g. DAPAANZ or other HPCA registration,
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working in a relevant social work, mental health or alcohol and other drug service setting,

Knowledge/Personal Attributes:

We are looking for someone who is passionate about working in this industry, who has a positive attitude, and is able to work as part of a team.

· A proven-track record in counselling in the alcohol and other drugs field

· Must be an excellent judge of people and be committed to biculturalism

· Have the ability to engage clients and provide supervision when needed

· An ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients

· Have great communication skills

· Knowledge of the 12 Step Programme would be ideal but not essential

· Be trustworthy

· Have great organisational skills

· High Level of verbal and written communication skills including basic counselling, negotiation and problem solving skills

· Ability to build and maintain therapeutic relationships

· Commitment to Te Ao Maori (me ona Tikanga)

· Knowledge of Te Tiriti O Waitangi and practical ways to implement it within your work.

Candidates with a personal history of alcohol and other drug dependence are required to have a minimum of 2 years continuous abstinence.

Benefits

· Competitive starting salary rewarded

· Ongoing Professional Development

· External and Internal Supervision

Higher Ground is an equal opportunity employer and a smoke free organisation. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Please also note that Police clearance checks will be required for this role. .

Please send your cover letter and CV by email to Carlene Clarke, HR Administrator: careers@higherground.org.nz