Hours of Work:  Monday-Friday (hours to vary; some evenings may be required), 35-40/wk. 

Job Description: Faye Peterson House is excited to welcome a compassionate and dedicated full-time Sexual Violence Counsellor/Shelter Worker to our team. In this role, you will be part of a supportive shelter environment where your work truly makes a difference—offering therapeutic counselling to survivors of sexual violence while also helping care for the day-to-day needs of the shelter. Our team works from a collaborative, heart-centered approach to support individuals who identify as women and who have experienced intimate partner violence. While counselling is a meaningful part of this role, you will also contribute to the overall life of the shelter—bringing your skills, empathy, and presence to a space that values connection, safety, and healing, with a special focus on sexual violence support.

1. Applicants must have successfully completed a HBSW with direct feminist counselling; (A copy of your qualifications must be attached to your resume) with documented experience in trauma therapy for survivors of sexual violence and woman abuse.

2. A feminist analysis of sex-gender based violence (with a focus on sexual violence; this analysis includes understanding the way that age, ability, race, indigeneity, queerness and trans-ness) impact experiences of violence and support- seeking.

3. Domestic and Sexual Violence Crisis intervention work-including crisis call, support with intake gained from 3-5 years’ experience in a shelter (or similar setting) or sexual assault services.

5. Must demonstrate an understanding and ability to serve 2SLGBTQAI+ survivors. An understanding of how gender impacts sexual violence Faye Peterson is a gender INCLUSIVE but not “gender neutral” organization.

6. Anti-racist, anti-oppressive, trauma informed, harm reduction, and decolonial counselling approach.

7. Must have direct experience working with people struggling with mental health and/or substance abuse/addiction problems. Practice from a harm reduction philosophy.

8. Specialized training in sexual violence counselling, including childhood sexual abuse issues and Human Trafficking.

9. Advanced knowledge of how sexual exploitation, addiction, mental health, and poverty impact survivors of sexual violence.

10. Must have knowledge of community resources, treatment centers, social service networks, and organizations. Knowledge of funding agencies is available to assist clients in accessing needed support services and community resources.

11. Excellent therapeutic clinical note taking meeting or exceeding ethical standards requirements of the College of Ontario Social Work or the College of Psychotherapy.

12. Preference will be given to diverse candidates who identify as such and speak (and write) in more than one language.

13. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with others, and work as a team player.

14. Demonstrated understanding of mindfulness principals as they relate to being a woman, and or, child advocate.

15. Demonstrated understanding and commitment to the Mission, Vision, and Value statements of the organization as well as an analysis of Violence Against Women.

16. Demonstrated proficiency and the ability to use the following: word processing and database programs – Microsoft Word, Windows, WISH (database program).

17. Must have demonstrated strong team building skills as well as be able to solve problems independently.

18. Must have access to your own vehicle for use at work and a valid driver’s license.

19. Provide proof of full COVID vaccination (3 shots).

20. Provide current First Aid /CPR certificate or willing to complete upon hire.

21. Successful completion of an Enhanced Criminal Reference check to the satisfaction of the Director.

22. Must have legal authorization to work in Canada for the duration of the contract/employment.

23. Must provide a copy of Work Permits, if applicable.