Position Title: Family Violence Prevention Counselor

Organization Overview

YWCA NENY, established in 1888, is a trailblazer in responding to community needs. Our mission is centered on eradicating racism, empowering women, and advocating for peace, justice, dignity, and freedom. We invite candidates from diverse backgrounds who possess the requisite skills and qualifications.

Job Summary

The Family Violence Prevention Counselor will provide outreach, prevention, and intervention services to families in Schenectady County affected by domestic violence. This role involves offering counseling and parent education services to families experiencing, with a history of, or at risk of domestic violence, aiming to prevent child abuse and foster positive long-term changes for stable households.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

FLSA Category: Exempt

Employment Status: 1 Year Contract with possibility of renewal

Essential Duties:

• Develop a Family Violence Prevention Program focusing on reducing or eliminating abuse within families through support groups and individual or family counseling sessions with non-offending parents and children (ages 5-17) with parental consent.
• Cultivate and strengthen relationships with key referral sources such as the school district, Child Protective Services, Schenectady Police Department, and The Boys and Girls Club to support families and children impacted by domestic violence and teen dating violence.
• Empower families by identifying and bolstering their strengths and protective factors, while also facilitating connections within the community to promote healthy children and family development.
• Assist children in feeling secure and equipped with strategies for seeking help in situations of family violence through safety planning.
• Collaborate with the shelter, and when necessary, provide counseling and facilitate groups at the shelter for children and families affected by domestic violence.
• Establish opportunities for parents to become peer facilitators and advocates within the community upon completion of the program, facilitating parent support groups and social activities.
• Develop satisfaction surveys for program participants to consistently gather insights and feedback for program improvement and modification.
• Seek guidance and support from the Clinical Director to address clinical issues and receive feedback as necessary.
• Compile and analyze data and complete monthly reports as required by grant specifications.

Qualifications:

• Preferred: Master’s degree in social work, Mental Health Counseling, or related field with NY State licensure; 2 years of relevant experience; Bilingual (English/Spanish) ability.
• Required: Bachelor's degree in social work with NY State licensure; 2 years of relevant experience; Strong communication, flexibility, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Maintain a current Licensure or Valid Permit in either Mental Health Counseling or Social Work and complete all necessary continuing education requirements as determined by the New York State Office of Professions.

• Experience in program development, outreach, and education highly desired.
• Experience working with vulnerable populations, including but not limited to children and families experiencing domestic violence, mental health, substance abuse, and trauma preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional bending, stair climbing, and sitting.
• Driving required.

Additional Requirements

• Clean, NYS Driver’s License (current Traffic Abstract required).
• Criminal Background check.
• Statewide Registry check (fingerprinting required).

Commitment to Diversity
As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and inclusivity, promoting fairness and respect for all individuals.

Join us in making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Apply now to be part of our dynamic team at YWCA NENY!