About Job
Position Title: Family Violence Prevention Counselor
Organization Overview
YWCA NENY, established in 1888, is a trailblazer in responding to community needs. Our mission is centered on eradicating racism, empowering women, and advocating for peace, justice, dignity, and freedom. We invite candidates from diverse backgrounds who possess the requisite skills and qualifications.
Job Summary
The Family Violence Prevention Counselor will provide outreach, prevention, and intervention services to families in Schenectady County affected by domestic violence. This role involves offering counseling and parent education services to families experiencing, with a history of, or at risk of domestic violence, aiming to prevent child abuse and foster positive long-term changes for stable households.
Supervisory Responsibilities: None
FLSA Category: Exempt
Essential Duties:
- Develop a Family Violence Prevention Program focusing on reducing or eliminating abuse within families through support groups and individual or family counseling sessions with non-offending parents and children (ages 5-17) with parental consent.
- Cultivate and strengthen relationships with key referral sources such as the school district, Child Protective Services, Schenectady Police Department, and The Boys and Girls Club to support families and children impacted by domestic violence and teen dating violence.
- Empower families by identifying and bolstering their strengths and protective factors, while also facilitating connections within the community to promote healthy children and family development.
- Assist children in feeling secure and equipped with strategies for seeking help in situations of family violence through safety planning.
- Collaborate with the shelter, and when necessary, provide counseling and facilitate groups at the shelter for children and families affected by domestic violence.
- Establish opportunities for parents to become peer facilitators and advocates within the community upon completion of the program, facilitating parent support groups and social activities.
- Develop satisfaction surveys for program participants to consistently gather insights and feedback for program improvement and modification.
- Seek guidance and support from the Clinical Director to address clinical issues and receive feedback as necessary.
- Compile and analyze data and complete monthly reports as required by grant specifications.
Required Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
- A minimum of 3 years cumulative role specific experience such as domestic violence education/counseling with youth, case management and human service experience with children and families
Good to Have:
- Bilingual proficiency in Spanish, Farsi, or Pashto.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Occasional bending, stair climbing, and sitting.
- Driving required.
Additional Requirements
- All role required checks.
Commitment to Diversity
As an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and inclusivity, promoting fairness and respect for all individuals.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Apply now to be part of our dynamic team at YWCA NENY!
Employment Status: Contract, ending 05/2026, with a high possibility of continuous renewal