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Form of workJob Description
Therapist
Vera House, Inc. is a human service agency that provides unconditional care for individuals and families through comprehensive domestic and sexual violence prevention and intervention services. We believe in collectively serving members of the community and creating an environment of accountability for our services. We strive to provide our employees with flexible schedules, when possible, a level of autonomy to complete their work, and a culture of belonging. We strive to interrupt the norms that cause harm and perpetuate oppression.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position will handle the day-to-day activities of the Therapist position at Vera House, Inc., which includes providing comprehensive counseling services to victims of domestic and sexual violence.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Serve as a liaison to community members and partnering agencies.
- Collect, analyze, and report program outputs and outcomes data.
- Provide immediate support, therapy, and advocacy to client systems experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or other violence.
- Maintain database and documentation in a way consistent with Vera House practices.
- Respond to the 24-hour support line.
- Assist clients in identifying, understanding, and navigating available community resources based on client(s) needs.
- Provide at least 20 therapy sessions per week.
- Provide at least 3 before- or after-hours appointments per week.
- Participate in sexual assault callouts (may include after-hours).
- Adhere to all Vera House policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
- Facilitate groups for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, or other violence.
- Provide immediate connection and support to clients as needed.
- Ensure a warm and welcoming environment.
- Provide referrals and systems advocacy.
- Ensure that all services are maintained in accordance with the Agency’s mission and vision.
- Manage challenging emotions while continuing to center client needs.
- This position is responsible for providing additional client-related assistance wherever necessary to help the Agency further its mission and vision.
EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:
- Master’s degree in social work, marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling or related field required, NYS License to practice preferred.
- One to three years of direct service experience preferred.
GENERAL COMPETENCIES:
- Thorough knowledge of domestic and sexual violence including elder abuse.
- Ability to work effectively with clients experiencing a high level of symptoms and lack of safety.
- Understands and values racial equity, personally and professionally, and is committed to continued learning on issues related to race, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Interpersonal, oral communication, and written skills that center healthy relationships.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (including Teams).
- Proficient with Zoom for the purpose of telemental health.
- Ability to develop positive, compassionate rapport with people who have experienced domestic, sexual, or other violence.
- Knowledge of community service delivery systems.
- Ability to maintain a positive working relationship with community partners.
- Ability to provide trauma-informed service with knowledge of de-escalation techniques.
- Ability to navigate complex dynamics and demonstrate critical thinking.
- Ability to work independently and in community.
- Ability to adapt and regulate through high intensity situations.
- Demonstrate cultural humility with clients, coworkers, and community.
SALARY RANGE:
$23.00-$26.00 per hour/Non-Exempt
Vera House provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
