Transitional & Housing Support Program Counsellor

Job Posting Transitional & Housing Support Program Counsellor One year Full-Time Contract Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic offers trauma-informed Legal services and representation, counselling, and multilingual interpretation, and drives system transformation to support women and gender diverse people who have experienced violence. Rooted in the foundations of intersectionality, innovation, and a client-centered approach, we foster the skills and resilience of the people we serve and amplify their voices to create individual and collective change. The Clinic’s Counselling Department is seeking a full-time Transitional and Housing Support Program Counsellor for a 12-month contract. **DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** All duties and responsibilities will be carried out in accordance with Barbra Schlifer Clinic's Mandate, Mission and Values Statements. **1- CLIENT SUPPORT:** Assess client needs and complete risk assessments and safety planning with clients. * Develop plans and set housing-related goals with clients. * Assist clients in completing applications under the Special Priority Program (SPP) for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. * Assist clients in accessing housing and income support, including Access to Housing, Ontario Works, and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). * Support clients with identifying suitable and safe housing locations and connect them with resources to support their transition and adjustment to new communities. * Facilitate Housing Information sessions and co-facilitate counselling support groups. * Provide information and guidance to help clients navigate social services. * Provide emotional support and crisis intervention to clients using trauma informed and client centered approach. * Build and maintain relevant external partnerships to support clients’ housing stability. **2- AGENCY AND TEAM SUPPORT:** * Participate on agency committees and contribute to events, including clinical meetings and staff meetings. * Communicate with team members to share critical information in a timely manner and work to resolve issues effectively and efficiently. * Represent the Clinic at relevant committees/networks and share information and updates as needed. * Utilize an anti-oppressive approach when working with clients and colleagues. **3- ASSESSMENT AND REFERAL:** * Assess client needs and advocate on behalf of clients by providing support, information, and warm referrals. * Conduct research to identify appropriate services for clients. * Consult and collaborate with other departments as needed to meet client needs. * Prioritize calls based on safety, date received and crisis situations **4- ADMINISTRATION & OTHER:** * Document client notes and statistics in the client management system, EMHware. * Prepare support letters and service confirmation letters for clients in consultation with the Director of Counselling/Program Manager. * Complete and submit monthly timesheets and other repor