Youth Counsellor

Youth Focus is a for-purpose organisation that creates brighter futures for young people in Western Australia by offering a range of no-cost mental health services. Established in 1994, Youth Focus delivers innovative and accessible mental health services and programs across Western Australia to help at-risk young people aged 12 to 25. A key component of this is our role as the lead agency for a number of headspace centres.

We are looking for an experienced Youth Counsellor to join our South West and Peel Team. This role is based from our Bunbury Office, located on Wadandi Noongar Country.

• Part-time position 0.8FTE - take Friday off!
• Permanent position 
• This position commences ASAP!

This role provides critical support to young people in our head office and schools. The key responsibilities of this role include:

• Provide an office-based, outreach and/or telehealth individual and group counselling support service to young people, and their families (where appropriate).
• Support the Intake team in managing capacity as required by providing Intake and Assessment to clients in line with organisational processes.
• Refer to and maintain a thorough knowledge and network of youth resources; when appropriate work in partnership with these networks.
• Build and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders involved in the provision of health, mental health, and psychosocial services to young people.
• Administer clinical evaluation measurements, maintain records, case notes and ensure that the client data system is kept up to date in accordance with organisational policy and guidelines.
• Maintain up-to-date client records and comply with data collection standards. Ensure that current legislation is being applied and observed.

To be considered for this position, applicants will have:

• Tertiary level qualification in Counselling, Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health Nursing or equivalent.
• Registration with relevant professional body - e.g., AHPRA, AASW, ACA.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills with three years' experience working with young people at risk of suicide, depression, anxiety and/or self-harm, and an understanding of the issues that affect young people's lives.
• Demonstrated knowledge and skills in conducting risk assessments, including assessment of suicide risk, developing safety plans to mitigate risks, and providing follow up support and referral for treatment as indicated.
• Significant knowledge, skills, and experience in the application of evidence based clinical practices and processes appropriate to working with young people and families experiencing complex mental health issues.
• Knowledge, skills, and experience in implementing and evaluating group programs for young people (desirable).
• Ability to work with flexibility in responding to young people and their needs.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• An ability to develop effective working relationships with other service providers.
• Current 'C' Class Driver's Licence and access to a reliable vehicle.

To successfully become part of our team, it is just as important to align with our values as it is to meet our selection criteria. Our values are part of who we are and are demonstrated in the way we work every day.

• Youth Focus is a DCA recognised Inclusive Employer!
• Competitive salary offerings with the ability to salary sacrifice
• Access to professional development opportunities
• Additional annual leave, and other leave offerings
• Generous paid parental leave

Please send through your CV and Cover Letter that addresses the above mentioned selection criteria detailed under the section 'About You'.

Closing date for applications: 9.00am, Monday 25 March 2023.

Please note:

• Appointment to the role is subject to the successful candidate providing a satisfactory National Police Clearance.
• Shortlisting will commence immediately, and the role may close earlier than the date mentioned above if we find a suitable candidate.
• Due to the high volume of applications received for our advertised positions, only those applicants who are short-listed will be contacted. To those applicants not short-listed, we extend our appreciation for considering Youth Focus as a potential employer.
• For further information or a confidential discussion about the position please contact Human Resources on (08) 6266 4***.

Youth Focus is committed to ensuring every individual that interacts with us feels safe and is able to bring their whole selves, being welcomed with equity, dignity and respect. In doing so, we understand that we must first include, listen, and reflect in order to build trust, connect, and partner. We celebrate individuality and are guided by the stories and journeys of the communities in which we live and work. Everyone is welcome at Youth Focus.