At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide emotional support and guidance via a 24/7 helpline.
- Company: Join a leading health and wellbeing network making a difference in millions of lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like private medical insurance, generous holiday, and monthly incentives.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive culture in a Sunday Times 'Best Places to Work' organisation.
- Qualifications: Must have a diploma in Counselling and at least 150 counselling hours.
- Other info: Opportunity for career progression and BACP accreditation support.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a qualified counsellor looking for a company that will invest in your development and career progression? Portfolio are proud to be exclusively representing our Client who are a trusted health and wellbeing network making a positive difference in over 15 million lives, in their search to add an Helpline Counsellor to their team. Our client offers the most comprehensive employee assistance programme on the market, giving 24/7 caring and compassionate support services to employers from organisations of all sizes, across the private, public and non-profit sector.
This is a great opportunity to join the industry leading EAP and OH provider & Sunday Times 'Best Places to Work' organisation as an EAP Counsellor.
Job Overview
Providing immediate emotional support and guidance to callers on the 24/7 helpline - completing clinical assessments and signposting appropriately. The role also includes structured telephone/video counselling clients - hours can be counted towards BACP accreditation.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
- Providing an efficient and effective telephone counselling service to all callers
- Demonstrating an ability to work with a variety of individuals and presenting issues, including those who are distressed and/or at risk
- Providing 'In the moment support' to callers, adopting a Solution Focused approach and achieving a one call resolution
Essential Skills and Competencies:
- Minimum diploma level 4 in Counselling & minimum of 150 counselling hours
- 12 months post qualification experience
- Registered member of the BACP or equivalent (or COP booked)
- Relevant telephone experience
- High level of computer literacy (MS Office, Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
- High level of organisational ability; ability to work to tight deadlines and targets
- Good communication and customer service skills
Desirable Skills and Competencies:
- Accredited with the BACP or eligible for the accreditation process
- EAP experience
- Experience of working within a target driven environment
Employee Benefits:
- BACP (or equivalent) membership and accreditation paid for
- BACP CBD Hub
- Up to £70 per month for supervision
- Monthly incentives such as weekends away!
- 25 days' holiday, plus bank holidays, holidays increase after 2- and 5-years' service
- Day off on your birthday
- Cash plan for you (and your children, if any)
- Contractual sick pay
- Private medical insurance after 5 years' service
- Pension Plan and Life Insurance
- Pension plan contributions increase after 5- and 7-years' service
- Holiday season bonus after 3 years' service
- Profit share scheme
- Season ticket loan scheme after 6 months and successful completion of probationary period
- Cycle to work scheme after 6 months and successful completion of probationary period
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme
- Free breakfast every Monday and social sessions on the last Friday of the month with free food and drink - we call this Fab Friday!
- Company incentives, access to discount schemes
- Discounted glasses/contact lenses prescription
Helpline Counsellor employer: The Portfolio Group
Contact Detail:
The Portfolio Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Helpline Counsellor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by individuals seeking counselling. Understanding common issues can help you demonstrate empathy and insight during your interactions, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the counselling field, especially those who have experience in helpline services. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals or recommendations for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in telephone counselling. This knowledge will not only enhance your skills but also show your commitment to professional development during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous counselling experiences in detail, particularly any instances where you provided immediate support or worked under pressure. Highlighting these experiences can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Helpline Counsellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your counselling qualifications, relevant experience, and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your diploma level 4 in Counselling and any post-qualification experience.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for helping others and your understanding of the role. Mention your experience with telephone counselling and your ability to provide immediate emotional support.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on your communication skills, organisational abilities, and experience working under pressure. These are essential for the Helpline Counsellor position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial in the counselling field.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Portfolio Group
✨Showcase Your Counselling Skills
Be prepared to discuss your counselling techniques and experiences in detail. Highlight specific instances where you've provided support to distressed individuals, demonstrating your ability to handle various presenting issues effectively.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company
Research the health and wellbeing network you're applying to. Understand their mission, values, and the services they offer. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to provide immediate emotional support. Practice responding to hypothetical scenarios that may arise during a helpline call, focusing on your solution-focused approach.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Professional Development
Discuss your ongoing professional development and any plans for future training or accreditation. Mention your BACP membership and how you intend to continue growing in your role, which aligns with the company's investment in employee development.