Company Overview:
New Heights Youth Outreach is an outdoor adventure therapy organisation based in Port Macquarie, which also services the Taree and Kempsey regions. We provide one-on-one mentoring and support, weekly adventure therapy group programs, adventure-based counselling, respite accommodation, and adventure camps and expeditions for disadvantaged, at-risk, and young people with disabilities between the ages of 10 – 17 and 18 – 30 years old.
About the Role:
We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Adventure-based Counsellor for the Port Macquarie area to join our team! If you're a qualified counsellor or social worker looking for a more effective way to connect with struggling young people through outdoor adventure activities while journeying alongside them, this is the role for you! Typically, our young people are between 10-30 years old and come from a variety of backgrounds but often with significant trauma, anxiety and depression, or disability. Being able to build rapport through a preferred activity of the young person while maintaining a trauma-informed approach helps build trust and safety for the young person that is the basis for any therapeutic relationship. The sense of fun, companionship and adventure creates a space that the young person wants to engage in, giving opportunity for meaningful conversations and experiences.
Key Responsibilities: Deliver individual and group, person-centred, trauma-informed counselling to children and young adults (ages 10–30) with diverse needs, including autism, disabilities, trauma, depression, anxiety, and self-harm, using both traditional and adventure-based therapeutic techniques. Use adventure activities, team building exercises, experiential learning experiences and nature, to help clients develop essential life skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. Assess and manage crises, providing immediate support for clients experiencing acute mental health issues, self-harm, or emotional distress. Work closely with parents, caregivers, educators, and other professionals to ensure a holistic and collaborative approach to client care, progress monitoring, and goal setting. Regularly assess and track client progress, making necessary adjustments to therapy plans and documenting key developments, interventions, and outcomes in line with professional standards. Contribute to the professional development of team members by participating in staff supervision, team meetings, and delivering or coordinating relevant training sessions, while also providing therapeutic oversight and guidance to our outreach support workers to ensure consistent, high-quality care delivery. Ideal Candidate: Qualification in counselling, social work or other relevant qualification. Current registration with PACFA or ACA. Qualification in outdoor leadership or other relevant outdoor activity qualifications and/or experience. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with young people. Passion for the outdoors and adventure-based therapy. Experience in program development and facilitation. First Aid and CPR certification. Working With Children Check, Police Check, and NDIS Worker Screening Check. Why Join Us? Make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people. Work in a supportive and passionate team. Opportunities for professional development and training. Enjoy the stunning natural beauty of working in the outdoors. Application Process:
If you're ready to inspire and empower youth through adventure, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your experience and passion for this role.
Closing date is 1/12/2024.
Join us in making a difference—one adventure at a time!
#J-18808-Ljbffr