What are the responsibilities and job description for the Telephone Counselor position at Women Against Abuse?
Job Description
WAA, a 501(c)3 nonprofit agency, is Philadelphia's leading domestic violence advocate and service provider and among the largest domestic violence agencies in the country. The mission of WAA is to provide quality, compassionate and non-judgmental services in a manner that fosters self-respect and independence in persons experiencing intimate partner violence through advocacy and community education. With over 170 staff, WAA serves (2-100 bed safe havens and 15 transitional housing apartments), legal services, hotline counseling, aftercare community-based services, prevention & education, and advocacy.
WAA’s Core Values are Safety, Empowerment, Strength, Hope, Respect, and Integrity and we are committed to a work environment built on honesty, transparency, teamwork, accountability, and a high level of professionalism.
Responsibilities:
The Telephone Counselor provides emergency counseling and triage to callers who are victims of domestic violence. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Responding to telephone calls on designated line(s) in order to provide emergency counseling, including information and referrals, crisis intervention, options counseling, and support to callers who are victims of domestic violence.
Conduct telephone screenings, gathering information to assist the provision of either residential placement or legal services.
Assess residential or legal needs of the caller, determines appropriate resources and advises callers about next steps; may triage the caller to other appropriate agencies or support services.
Maintain the caller database as assigned; prepares monthly statistical reports as necessary.
Provide follow-up assistance to caller as needed and/or engages other staff to conduct necessary follow-up.
Conduct screening and referrals for HopeLine emergency phones, emergency relocation funds and other services as needed.
Maintain current information on all relevant referrals, contacts and services related to the needs of domestic violence victims.
Attend scheduled staff, team, Agency and external meetings, as assigned. Attend planning workshops and trainings when necessary.
Qualifications:
1.An Associate’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
2.Some experience working with women is required; experience with victims of domestic violence is preferred.
3.Previous experience in crisis counseling experience is preferred.
4.Demonstrated effectiveness in crisis intervention is required.
5.Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse population is required.
6.Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a team member is required.
7.Demonstrated commitment to service of others is required.
8.Demonstrated proficiency in communication, both verbal and written, is required.
9.Bilingualism is strongly preferred.
10. PA Domestic Violence Advocate Training Certification required, post hire (approx. 50 hours)
12. Employment offer and continued employment are contingent upon required satisfactory child abuse, criminal and FBI clearances. (Expenses paid by WAA)
Schedule: Monday - Friday 9a - 5p
Pay Rate: $18.08 an hour with Full Medical/Vision/Dental benefits more.
Location: Center City, Philadelphia PA
We are an equal opportunity employer and are dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We strongly encourage candidates of color, LGBTQ communities, veterans, and people with disabilities to apply.
Salary : $18 - $0
