At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide one-to-one and group counselling to support individuals in recovery from addiction.
- Company: Changing Lives, a nationwide charity dedicated to helping those facing challenging circumstances.
- Benefits: Generous leave policies, including maternity, paternity, and wellbeing days, plus private health insurance.
- Other info: Join a passionate team in a diverse and inclusive environment with growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives by supporting their recovery journey.
- Qualifications: Professional counselling qualification and experience with trauma-informed practices required.
The predicted salary is between 26116 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne
Benefits:
- Maternity Leave 20 weeks fully paid + up to 52 weeks leave total.
- Paternity Leave 4 weeks paid.
- Adoption same as Maternity Leave.
- 25 Days Holiday, +2 Wellbeing Days + your Birthday & Bank Holidays off.
- Pension, Life Cover at X4 Salary & Private Health Insurance.
Changing Lives is a nationwide charity helping people facing the most challenging of circumstances to make positive change - for good. We believe that everyone deserves a safe home, a rewarding job and a life free from addiction or abuse. Our services across the country help thousands of people each year who are experiencing a wide range of complicated challenges, including homelessness, drug and alcohol addiction, unemployment, involvement with the criminal justice system, sexual exploitation and domestic abuse. By focusing on their strengths, potential and opportunities, we support the people we work with to overcome their problems and live safe, successful, independent lives.
Our charity is powered by over 600 passionate colleagues who bring a diverse and inclusive environment for our colleagues to grow. We are proud to say that many have actual lived experience of the challenges faced by those we support. We are looking for committed and compassionate professionals to join our team, who share our enthusiasm for changing lives.
About the Service - Treatment & Recovery Services
Our dedicated treatment and recovery services offer tailored support to help people challenge dependency. We understand that recovery from dependency is a personal process, and we know that it is possible with the support. We work with people at every stage of their recovery journey. We offer effective therapeutic support for people, and ongoing support as life progresses. We also support people to connect within their communities and to other services that can help with other issues arising, including employment, housing, family relationships, mental health and more.
About the Job
Changing Lives is seeking a dedicated Counsellor to join the Newcastle Treatment and Recovery (NTaR) partnership. You will be instrumental in supporting individuals facing challenging circumstances to make positive, lasting changes and recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Working across different settings in Newcastle, you will provide critical one-to-one and group counselling to service users. Collaborating closely with Recovery Coordinators and clinicians, you will help individuals navigate specific issues of loss and abuse that impact substance misuse.
To be successful, you will need a professional counselling qualification (such as a BA Hons), an active membership with a recognised professional body and experience supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic life events. You should bring a strong understanding of trauma-informed and trauma-responsive practice, and a warm and caring disposition to motivate individuals on their recovery journey.
Counsellor employer: Changing Lives
Changing Lives in Newcastle upon Tyne is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the community. With a strong focus on trauma-informed care, we foster a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth, offering employees opportunities to develop their skills while making a difference in the lives of women and children. Our commitment to employee well-being and the unique challenges of this role create a rewarding environment for those passionate about social change.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Counsellor
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Changing Lives. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Changing Lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Counsellor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Changing Lives:Take some time to research Changing Lives and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Changing Lives
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Changing Lives's values and approach.
