Counsellor (Part-time)

We're seeking a skilled & dynamic counsellor to join our clinical team in our Newry centre to provide a valuable resource to the community, offering open access to individuals experiencing mental or emotional crises or who've been bereaved by suicide.

We are seeking an individual who is passionate about helping others and possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills. If you are a compassionate and dedicated counsellor who is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those affected by suicide, we strongly encourage you to apply.

**AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY**:
This service aims to provide a valuable resource to the community, offering open access to individuals who are experiencing mental or emotional crises or have been bereaved by suicide. Our goal is to reduce the risk of further suicides in this vulnerable group by providing preventative work and direct support, as well as signposting to other services where appropriate.

To achieve this, we conduct thorough psychological assessments of our clients to determine their need for psychiatric services and assess their level of risk. Our team of dedicated counsellors carry a caseload of clients that is appropriate to their hours of work, ensuring that each individual receives the attention and care they require.

We understand the importance of providing a safe and supportive environment for those who are struggling with mental health issues or have been affected by suicide. Our service is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those in the Southern Trust area, and we are proud to offer this vital resource to the community.

**MAIN DUTIES**:

- Dealing with clients presenting in mental or emotional crisis or bereaved by suicide, e.g., suicide ideation, self-harm, trauma, suicide bereavement.
- Carry out comprehensive clinical assessments as required.
- To work with a client base of adults or children and young people on a one-to-one basis, using a range of platforms including face-to-face, telephone counselling and/or zoom
- To be a critical point of contact for individuals presenting in crisis or emotional distress.
- To use critical tools such as CASE/ Pasani and Safety planning to ensure the safety of all clients (Training will be provided)
- Ensure all processes (including Salesforce & CoreNet ) are completed accurately and kept up to date and that any other required paperwork is filed and fully completed and on time.
- To help the creation of a relaxed and friendly atmosphere which will maintain and enhance the quality of care to each client and maximise their opportunities for choice.
- Ensure prompt and efficient recording of all appropriate administration required to fulfil the outcomes of the post.
- Following all policies and procedures as led down by PIPS Hope & Support Limited and the relevant professional bodies.
- To be responsible for both personal and professional attitudes and behaviour when interacting with colleagues and service users.
- Attend multidisciplinary team meetings as and when required.
- Observe and carry out health and safety procedures with respect for oneself, colleagues, and the public.
- Participate in staff, and team meetings regularly.
- Provide monthly progress reports on all activities undertaken.
- To keep accurate record keeping of all clients.
- To adhere to all policies and procedures laid down by PIPS Hope & Support Limited
- To assist the Clinical Lead in evaluating the impact of all work undertaken.

The duties and responsibilities of this job description are neither definitive nor restrictive and can be modified to meet the changing needs of the organisation.

The organisation is committed to providing the highest possible quality of service to its clients and the community.

Members of staff are always expected to provide a caring service to treat those with whom they come in contact courteously and respectfully.

**PERSON SPECIFICATION**:
**ESSENTIAL CRITERIA**:

- Recognised Diploma in Counselling (300 hr theory and practice).
- At least two years of supervised counselling practice with adults
- BACP / IACP / UKCP or equivalent accreditation which includes current membership & evidence of associate membership number.
- Know and work according to the ethical framework of professional bodies.
- Ability to keep confidential records in keeping with the policies and procedures of the organisation.
- Excellent oral & written communication skills including IT skills.

**SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE**:

- Managing personally sensitive information.
- Able to work as part of a team.

**DESIRABLE**:

- Experience and Knowledge
- Experience in counselling in a healthcare setting
- Experience working with clients of all ages (qualifications to support working with children will be required)
- Experience working in multidisciplinary teams Demonstrates a knowledge of the issues surrounding work and the impact it can have on mental health/benefits & employment systems
- Knowledge of anxiety, de