Position Statement

The Specialist DFSV Counsellor is responsible for delivering the Healing Inside program an evidence-informed, trauma responsive Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence (DFSV) program delivered mostly within a prison environment for women.

The role provides individual counselling, group education and safety planning for women affected by DFSV, with a focus on healing and empowerment.

This position works collaboratively with correctional services, internal stakeholders and community organisations to support continuity of care, safety, and culturally responsive practice. This is an on-site position.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Deliver the Healing Inside DFSV program within a prison environment using trauma-informed, culturally safe and strengths-based approaches.
• Provide one on one counselling to incarcerated women who have experienced or used Domestic and Family Violence.
• Facilitate group sessions focusing on education, healing, self-reflection and emotional wellbeing.
• Conduct risk and needs assessments and develop individual safety and support plans.
• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, case notes and reports in line with organisational policy and legal requirements.
• Make referrals to internal prison services, external DFSV services, and post-release supports to enhance reintegration and safety.
• Engage in regular case reviews and supervision, contributing to the continuous improvement of the program.
• Collaborate closely with correctional staff, parole officers and health service providers to support coordination and client care.
• Contribute to data collection and program evaluation to support reporting and funding compliance.
• Promote and uphold the principles of cultural safety, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and work inclusively with women from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Provide support to other programs as requested by the Manager.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• Tertiary qualification in Social Work, Psychology, Counselling or a related field and eligibility for membership with a relevant professional body (e.g., AASW, PACFA, ACA).
• Demonstrated experience delivering therapeutic services to women affected by domestic and family violence, including risk assessment and safety planning.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed practice, intersectionality, and the impacts of DFSV on women in contact with the justice system.
• Experience working with complex needs clients, including within justice, mental health or corrections settings.
• High-level written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and case note documentation.
• Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully with correctional staff, community stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Commitment to culturally safe and inclusive practice, particularly when working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Desirable

• Experience delivering group programs in custodial or forensic environments.
• Knowledge of referral pathways and services for women post release.
• Experience in program evaluation or data collection for reporting and quality improvement.

Requirements

• A satisfactory Northern Territory working with children check (Ochre Card).
• A valid NT Driver’s License.
• A satisfactory national criminal history check.
• A commitment to our Safeguarding Children Practice and Behaviour Guidelines.

Relationships Australia NT is accredited as a Safeguarding Children organisation with the Australian Childhood Foundation. Therefore, all staff working at RA-NT are required to complete training regarding Safeguarding Children and mandatory reporting upon induction at RA-NT. Staff need to commit to the RA-NT Code of Conduct and all Safeguarding Children related policies.

To obtain further information visit us at nt.relationships.org.au/careers.

Applications will be processed as received and only successful candidates will be contacted. To discuss this position further please contact Nathalia on 08 8923 4999.

Relationships Australia NT encourages applications from people of all ages, nationalities, abilities and cultures – including Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples, CALD, the LGBTQI+ community and people living with disability. We are happy to adjust our recruitment process to support your accessibility needs.