About Company
At Hiring.zycto, we believe in fostering a supportive environment where our team can truly make a difference. As a pivotal partner in the Path System, Toronto, we are dedicated to championing the safety and well-being of women and children fleeing violence. Joining our team means contributing directly to life-changing impact, empowering individuals towards healing and independence. We offer a compassionate, collaborative space for counselors to thrive, ensuring every voice is heard and valued in our mission to build stronger, safer communities. This is where your expertise in empathetic support finds its most profound purpose.
Job Description
Hiring.zycto, a dedicated partner within the Path System, Toronto, is seeking a compassionate and resilient Counselor to join our vital Women’s Shelter team. This challenging yet incredibly rewarding full-time position offers the opportunity to provide immediate support, crisis intervention, and ongoing counseling to women and their children who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence, abuse, and homelessness. Our shelter provides a safe haven, and as a Counselor, you will be at the forefront of empowering residents to navigate complex emotions, develop coping strategies, and access resources crucial for their healing and transition to independence. You will be instrumental in creating an environment of trust, respect, and non-judgment, helping individuals rebuild their lives and fostering a sense of hope for the future.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of trauma-informed care principles and a commitment to anti-oppressive practices. You will manage a caseload, conducting assessments, developing individualized support plans, and facilitating both one-on-one and group counseling sessions. This role requires exceptional active listening skills, the ability to de-escalate crisis situations, and a profound empathy for diverse populations facing significant adversity. You will collaborate closely with other shelter staff, external agencies, and community partners to ensure holistic support for our residents. Your work will directly contribute to breaking cycles of violence, promoting safety, and advocating for social justice within the community. We are looking for someone who is not only professionally adept but also possesses unwavering patience, resilience, and a genuine passion for advocating for vulnerable populations. This role is more than a job; it’s a calling to make a tangible, positive difference in the lives of those who need it most, helping them reclaim their strength and dignity.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide immediate crisis intervention and emotional support to shelter residents.
- Conduct intake assessments to identify resident needs and develop personalized support plans.
- Offer individual and group counseling sessions using trauma-informed approaches.
- Facilitate workshops and educational sessions on topics such as healthy relationships, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms.
- Connect residents with appropriate internal and external resources, including housing, legal aid, mental health services, and employment support.
- Maintain accurate and confidential client records and case notes.
- Collaborate with other shelter staff to ensure a safe, supportive, and empowering environment.
- Participate in case conferences and team meetings to review client progress and coordinate services.
- Advocate on behalf of residents with external agencies and systems.
- Assist with de-escalation of conflict situations and respond to emergencies within the shelter.
Required Skills
- Master's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field.
- Minimum 2-3 years of experience in crisis intervention, counseling, or social services, preferably within a women's shelter or similar setting.
- Demonstrated understanding and application of trauma-informed care and anti-oppressive practice principles.
- Exceptional active listening, empathy, and communication skills (verbal and written).
- Proven ability to manage challenging situations and maintain professional boundaries.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a caseload effectively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and client management software.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently with minimal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications
- Registered Social Worker (RSW) or Registered Psychotherapist (RP) designation.
- Experience working with diverse cultural backgrounds and marginalized communities.
- Knowledge of local community resources and social service networks in Toronto.
- Fluency in a second language relevant to Toronto's diverse population (e.g., French, Mandarin, Punjabi, Tagalog).
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and sick leave.
- Professional development opportunities and training.
- Employee assistance program (EAP).
- Supportive and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunity to make a direct, tangible impact on individuals' lives.
How to Apply
We invite passionate and qualified candidates to join our dedicated team. Please review the requirements carefully and click on the application link below to submit your resume and cover letter. In your cover letter, please highlight your experience working with vulnerable populations and your commitment to supporting women and children experiencing violence.
