Community Counsellor - Residential AOD Facility

About Higher Ground Papa Taumata

Higher Ground Papa Taumata Drug Rehabilitation Trust provides quality abstinence-based treatment within a therapeutic community for tāngata whai ora experiencing severe alcohol and other drug dependence. Our residential programmes are grounded in 12-Step recovery principles and focus on long-term recovery and wellbeing.

Based in Te Atatū, a great opportunity has opened, and we are looking for a Community Counsellor to join our dedicated team. This is a permanent, full time (40 hours per week) position, Monday – Friday, which may include one evening shift 12.30pm- 8:30pm. Some statutory holidays may also be required.

The Role:

The Community Counsellor works across the pre-admission, admission and continuing care phases of the programme. Responsibilities include:

· Responding to enquiries and assessing eligibility for the programme.

• Conduct intake interviews and formulate treatment pathways.
• Supporting tāngata whai ora through the admission process.
• Provide professional counselling for tāngata whai ora post-residential treatment.
• Facilitating continuing care and recovery groups.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking someone who is passionate about supporting people experiencing severe substance addiction, and who can use their skills and experience to help tāngata whai ora build meaningful lives in recovery.

This role requires someone who is comfortable working within a therapeutic community model that values accountability, honesty, and personal growth as essential components of recovery.

• A genuine commitment to Te Reo Māori, tikanga Māori, and a whānau-centred approach to care.
• Sound understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the ability to apply its principles in everyday practice.
• Demonstrates the highest standards of personal integrity, professionalism, and ethical practice.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and maintain strong therapeutic relationships.
• Proactive, empathetic and self-aware, with the ability to maintain healthy professional boundaries.
• A collaborative team approach and the ability to engage with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to effectively balance and prioritise tasks.
• Strong administration and documentation skills, including MS office proficiency.
• Understanding of evidence-based practice in addiction treatment.
• Knowledge of the 12-step programme and/or previous work experience in an AOD service is beneficial.

Candidates with lived experience of addiction are welcome to apply. A minimum of two years continuous abstinence is required.

Benefits

• Defined and competitive starting salary.
• 12 days per annum sick leave from commencement of employment.
• Southern Cross Everyday Essentials health insurance.
• Two well-being days per annum.
• Annual Training Allowance to support ongoing professional development
• Internal Team & External Clinical Supervision

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.)
• Current practising certificate with a professional body (e.g. DAPAANZ or other HPCA registration)
• Full & valid NZ Driver Licence
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience working in a relevant social work, mental health or alcohol and other drug service setting,

Higher Ground Papa Taumata 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 Manager: careers@higherground.org.nz