Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support clients through counselling sessions, keeping accurate records and attending training.
- Company: Via Merton provides innovative substance misuse treatment services in partnership with local agencies.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, accrue counselling hours, and receive training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your therapeutic skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Final year undergraduates or postgraduates in counselling/psychotherapy; passion for helping others is essential.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 1 day per week; ideal for those seeking accreditation.
Location: Merton
Days: 1 day per week
About Via in Merton
Via has a long history of delivering treatment services in London, the South East and East of England. Via is proud to be the lead provider in the new partnerships responsible for treatment services as well as performance and quality standards in the borough of Merton. Working in partnership with other agencies, our substance misuse services enable us to deliver a fully recovery-focused model of treatment that is forward-looking, innovative and committed to the achievement of positive outcomes for all our service users. Via Merton has been running the drug and alcohol service since 1st of April 2018. We have a dedicated team of substance misuse practitioners who work alongside other professionals including doctors and nurses.
About the counselling service
Our counselling service provides people with the opportunity to meet in private with a counsellor for approximately 12 weekly fifty-minute sessions which are reviewed to discuss issues and concerns that are currently making life difficult. These could include any of the following and more: addictions, low self-esteem, stress, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, relationship difficulties, loss of purpose or meaning, family difficulties, loss and bereavement, anger, depression, trauma, etc.
How you can help
As a Volunteer Counsellor, you’ll:
- See a minimum of three clients and a maximum of six clients per week.
- Keep accurate records of your work in line with Via policy.
- Feedback any issues to your line manager/supervisor.
- Attend training in agreement with your clinical supervisor.
- Follow all Via policies and procedures.
- Participate in meetings and carry out other tasks where necessary to support the needs of the counselling service.
The role would be ideal if you’re looking to develop your therapeutic experience in the drug and alcohol field and accrue counselling hours towards your future accreditation with BPS, BACP or UKCP.
What skills do you need?
The role would be ideal for someone looking to develop their therapeutic experience in the drug and alcohol field and accrue some counselling hours towards future accreditation with BPS, BACP, or UKCP. While some knowledge of the sector is desirable, we are specifically looking for people who have a passion for the work that we do. A positive attitude and the desire to learn are essential, as is a non-judgemental and supportive approach to people who are facing problems with drugs and alcohol.
To ensure good practice standards and to maximise the safety of both the therapists and the clients at Via, we require all students to confirm and adhere to the following:
- Trainees are in their final year of an undergraduate degree or equivalent, or are at a postgraduate level. Alternatively, students should be in their third year of a Diploma, BSc, or MSc in counselling or psychotherapy training.
- If students are not in the third year of their Diploma, BSc, or MSc in counselling or psychotherapy training, trainees need to be in their second year (at least) but have undertaken (or be prepared to undertake prior to seeing clients) significant and appropriate training.
- Trainees are expected to be a member of one of the counselling governing bodies BACP or UKCP.
- Trainees may need to have conducted a minimum number of counselling hours.
- Trainees are working or intend to work towards counselling or psychotherapy accreditation.
- Previous details of supervisor and present college tutor information should be sent to Via and agreed that Via can ask supervisor and tutor for references.
- In some cases, at the discretion of the service, students may need to provide their own clinical supervision.
Volunteer Counsellor (Merton) employer: Via
Contact Detail:
Via Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Counsellor (Merton)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by clients in substance misuse. Understanding the nuances of addiction and recovery will help you connect better with potential clients and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of counselling and substance misuse. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to meet people who can provide insights into the role and possibly refer you to opportunities at Via.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for helping others during any informal discussions or interviews. Share personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a career in counselling, particularly in the drug and alcohol sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Be proactive in seeking out additional training or certifications related to substance misuse counselling. This not only enhances your skills but also signals to Via that you are serious about your professional development.
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Counsellor (Merton)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Volunteer Counsellor position. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous counselling experience or training, especially in substance misuse or related fields. Mention specific skills that align with the role, such as empathy, active listening, and a non-judgemental approach.
Show Your Passion: Express your passion for helping others and your commitment to the field of counselling. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your dedication to supporting individuals facing challenges with drugs and alcohol.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Via
✨Show Your Passion for Counselling
Make sure to express your genuine interest in helping others, especially in the context of substance misuse. Share any personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this role, as it will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of the Role
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by clients dealing with addiction and mental health issues. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach these challenges in a supportive and non-judgemental manner.
✨Highlight Your Training and Experience
Discuss your academic background and any relevant training you've completed. If you have prior counselling experience, share specific examples of how you've helped clients overcome difficulties, as this will showcase your capability.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the counselling service and the team at Via. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the environment aligns with your values and goals.
