At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team providing trauma-informed therapy to clients overcoming addiction.
- Company: Join The Forward Trust, a charity empowering individuals to break cycles of crime and addiction.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, training opportunities, wellbeing days, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Full driving licence needed for travel across East Kent.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working in a supportive and impactful environment.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years experience in trauma-focused counselling and management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Job Description
Trauma Counsellor - Team Leader (Various Locations East Kent)
Location: East Kent
Salary: £30,000 per annum plus benefits
Vacancy Type: Permanent, Full Time
Closing Date: 28 Jul 2025
Do you want to make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals overcoming addiction and trauma.
If so we are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Trauma Informed Therapist to join our integrated healthcare team supporting adults (18+) affected by drug and alcohol use. Our services are designed to deliver high quality Psychosocial Drug and Alcohol Interventions, with a strong emphasis on trauma informed care.
About the Role
As a Trauma Informed Therapist, you will provide specialist 1:1 counselling to clients with complex trauma related to substance misuse. You will work within evidence based therapeutic frameworks, including EMDR, CBT, and other trauma informed models, supporting clients on their recovery journey.
In this pivotal role, you will also:
- Hold a therapeutic caseload of clients with a wide range of complex needs
- Supervise and support a small team of counsellors, including client allocation and clinical supervision
- Conduct comprehensive assessments and contribute to the development of tailored treatment plans
- Work flexibly across sites in East Kent, ensuring continuity of care and responsive service delivery
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for someone with the following skills knowledge and experience below to come join us for this role.
- Minimum 2 years’ experience delivering trauma focused counselling
- Experience in substance misuse
- A knowledge and understanding of clinical governance and risk management.
- Experience working with a diverse range of clients and presenting issues.
- Ability to work independently and manage a flexible session schedule.
- Understanding of continuity of care, holistic care needs and community services.
- Knowledge of Safeguarding.
- Strong understanding of trauma informed approaches
- Excellent communication skills
- Excellent IT skills
- Full drivers licence with access to a car for travel around the region
- Management Experience
About Us
We are The Forward Trust, the social enterprise with charitable status that empowers people to break the often interlinked cycles of crime and addiction to move forward with their lives. For more than 25 years we have been working with people to build positive and productive lives, whatever their past. We believe that anyone is capable of lasting change. Our services have supported thousands of people to make positive changes and build productive lives with a job, family, friends and a sense of community.We are committed to our cause and the work we carry out as a charity. Equally the wellbeing and the employees who work for us are also important. Joining us an employee, we will offer you the following benefits -
- Flexible working
- Training and development opportunities
- Simply Health Cashback Scheme (optional)
- Season Ticket Loan Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Crisis Loan Scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- 3 x Wellbeing Days (pro rata'd for part time employees)
- Access to Blue Light Card
- 25 days (rising to 30 with length of service) Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays
- Contributory Pension Scheme - Employer matched contributions of up to 6% in the first two years’ service and up to 9% thereafter
- Death in Service Payment (2x annual salary)
- Critical Illness Insurance (subject to qualifying criteria)
To Apply
If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for the Forward Trust, please click apply to be redirected to their website to complete your application.
Trauma Counsellor Team Leader in Ashford employer: The Forward Trust
The Forward Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to recovery from addiction and trauma. With a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, we offer flexible working arrangements, comprehensive training and development opportunities, and a supportive work culture that values compassion and collaboration. Located in East Kent, our team benefits from a range of perks including generous annual leave, a contributory pension scheme, and unique initiatives like the Cycle to Work scheme, making it a fulfilling place to grow both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trauma Counsellor Team Leader in Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with trauma-informed care principles. Understanding these concepts will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the values of The Forward Trust.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of trauma counselling and substance misuse. Attend relevant workshops or seminars in East Kent to connect with others and gain insights that could be beneficial during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your management experience in detail. As a Team Leader, you'll need to showcase your ability to supervise and support a team, so think of specific examples where you've successfully led others.
✨Tip Number 4
Research The Forward Trust's mission and values thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can set you apart from other candidates and show your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Trauma Counsellor Team Leader in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Trauma Counsellor Team Leader position. Highlight key skills such as trauma-focused counselling and management experience in your application.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience, particularly in trauma-informed care and substance misuse. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for helping individuals overcome addiction and trauma. Mention your understanding of trauma-informed approaches and how your experience aligns with the values of The Forward Trust.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Forward Trust
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your minimum two years of experience in delivering trauma-focused counselling. Highlight specific cases or situations where you successfully supported clients with complex trauma, particularly related to substance misuse.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Therapeutic Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with evidence-based therapeutic frameworks such as EMDR and CBT. Be ready to explain how you have applied these methods in your practice and how they can benefit clients on their recovery journey.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Skills
As a team leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your management experience. Discuss how you have supervised and supported other counsellors, including client allocation and clinical supervision, to ensure effective service delivery.
✨Understand the Organisation's Values
Research The Forward Trust and its mission to empower individuals overcoming addiction and trauma. Be prepared to articulate how your personal values align with their commitment to making a lasting impact in the community.
