Counsellor (TAIHS Disaster Recovery Program)

Your ContributionOur Counsellors provide high-quality, trauma-informed emotional and psychological support to individuals and communities affected by disasters under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). This role contributes to community recovery by delivering counselling, psychosocial interventions, referrals, and practical wellbeing support, while promoting resilience, safety, and connection. As a Counsellor you will work collaboratively with local services, recovery partners, and community networks to ensure people receive timely, holistic, and culturally safe care.
Duties & ResponsibilitiesProvide trauma-informed, evidence-based counselling to individuals, families, and groupsimpacted by disasters, in the Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook and Townsville regionsConduct psychosocial assessments, risk assessments, and safety planning as requiredDevelop and implement client-centred support plans with clear goals and interventionsOffer brief interventions, emotional support, debriefing, and practical strategies to manage distressDeliver services in a range of settings including clinics, outreach locations, community hubs, and via telehealth.
Community Recovery SupportParticipate in community outreach, events, and recovery activities to promote engagement and accessibilityProvide psychoeducation on stress, trauma, coping, and recoveryContribute to community capacity-building initiativesIdentify emerging community needs and escalate concerns to Program ManagerCoordination and ReferralEnsure effective referral pathways with GPs, mental health services, social support agencies, and emergency recovery partnersLiaise with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure integrated and holistic supportAdvocate for clients and follow up to ensure continuity of care.Documentation and ComplianceMaintain accurate, timely, and confidential client records in accordance with organisational policy and DRFA requirementsCollect service delivery data to support reporting and accountability obligations under the funding agreementAdhere to clinical governance frameworks, ethical guidelines, and professional standards.Professional PracticeEngage in regular clinical supervision, case review, and reflective practiceParticipate in training, team meetings, and professional developmentContribute to quality improvement activities related to service delivery and disaster recovery processes.
Required Qualifications and ExperienceTertiary education/qualification in Social Work/Psychology, Counselling or related disciplineMinimum 2 years’ experience within the fieldDemonstrated experience providing counselling or psychosocial support, preferably in trauma, crisis, or disaster recovery contextsStrong understanding of trauma-informed practice, grief and loss, and psychological first aid principlesKnowledge of local social support systems, community networks and mental health servicesExperience in group facilitation or community developmentAbility to deliver professional innovative, quality client services within appropriate timeframesAwareness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, history and the issues affecting the lives of TAIHS client group - Cultural CompetenceExcellent interpersonal skills, cross cultural communication skills and report writing skills.
Required Licenses and ChecksAbility to complete and pass a National Police Check – no Serious/Criminal/Court RecordsCurrent Blue Card (Queensland's Working with Children Check or hold a current AHPRA registration)Current C Class Drivers Licence (Qld)Proof of qualifications and current registrations (as appropriate) are to be provided prior to commencement of employmentAbility to perform the physical requirements of the role in a safe mannerAbility to work flexible hours during peak recovery periods or community events.Offer of the position may be subject to a pre-employment medical assessment to support the selection process.
To learn more about the role and apply for the position, please click the "Apply" button below the role title.