Purpose of Position
The Counselor/Advocate provides trauma-informed direct services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other serious crimes. This position supports individuals and families through crisis intervention, advocacy, counseling, accompaniment, safety planning, and community resource coordination. The Counselor/Advocate also assists with agency trainings, outreach initiatives, and special projects that further the mission of VIP.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a human services-related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and at least two years of relevant experience considered.
- Experience in crisis intervention, victim advocacy, counseling, or related human services work strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated sensitivity and commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and other serious crimes.
- Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and organizational communication skills.
- Ability to work independently, maintain professionalism under pressure, and collaborate effectively with staff, community partners, and the public.
- Knowledge of the criminal and civil court systems, victim services, and cultural responsiveness preferred.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of service delivery.
- Willingness to attend the majority of required after-hours events, trainings, fundraisers, support groups, and community outreach activities.
- Successful completion of VIP Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault training and practicum required upon hire.
- Continued employment contingent upon successful completion and maintenance of Act 33/34 and federal clearances.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide trauma-informed crisis intervention, advocacy, accompaniment, individual support, and group services to adult and child survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, incest, and other serious crimes.
- Conduct safety planning and assist clients in identifying appropriate community resources and support services.
- Accompany clients through civil and criminal justice proceedings, including court appearances and related appointments.
- Provide hospital accompaniment and support to survivors as needed.
- Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential client documentation in accordance with agency policies and funding requirements.
- Assist with hotline coverage in coordination with agency staff.
- Participate in agency trainings, volunteer advocate trainings, staff development opportunities, and community education initiatives.
- Represent the agency at community meetings, coalition meetings, outreach events, and speaking engagements as assigned.
- Assist with the coordination of community awareness activities, agency projects, and special events.
- Compile, track, and document required program statistics and service data.
- Schedule counseling and advocacy appointments as needed.
- Support clients through the agency grievance process when applicable.
- Assist with agency-supported community assistance programs, including Adopt-a-Family, holiday assistance initiatives, and cell phone/safety programs.
- Perform additional VOCA-funded and agency-related duties as assigned by the Direct Services Supervisor.
- Contribute to a respectful, collaborative, and positive work environment that reflects the agency’s mission and values.
Physical Requirements
- Must possess reliable transportation to fulfill essential job responsibilities, including travel within the service area.
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb stairs, balance, crouch, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift for extended periods as required.
- Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds when necessary.
- Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.
- Ability to read, prepare, and maintain detailed documentation and reports.
- Correctable visual acuity sufficient to safely and effectively operate office equipment and computer systems.
Equipment Utilized
- Computer systems and database software
- Telephone and hotline systems
- Copier/scanner/printer equipment
- Audio/visual equipment
- Calculator and standard office tools
- Paper shredder and confidential document disposal systems
- Miscellaneous office equipment and supplies
Work Environment & Culture
VIP is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace dedicated to empowering survivors and strengthening the community. Team members are expected to demonstrate professionalism, compassion, accountability, and respect in all interactions.
VIP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Survivors are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Please submit a cover letter with your application.
Education:
Work Location: In person
