Adolescent Counsellor – Full or Part-Time

The Organisation

The Traveller Counselling Service, established in 2008, provides one-to-one counselling and therapeutic support to members of the Traveller community. Overseen by a Board of Management, this service is run by Travellers for Travellers and operates within a culturally inclusive framework that respects Traveller culture, identity, values, and norms.

The Role

We are excited to offer a newly created opportunity for a compassionate and suitably qualified Adolescent Counsellor to join our team. This role will play a pivotal part in a 12-month funded program aimed at providing culturally responsive counselling to young Travellers aged 11-25. Building on our existing service for adults, this initiative addresses the growing mental health needs of younger members of the Traveller community.

The Adolescent Counsellor will deliver in-person, culturally sensitive care in neutral and accessible venues in the Dublin area, working closely with adolescents and their families to offer individual counselling and, if needed, family therapy.

This is a one-year fixed-term contract, with continuation subject to funding. The position is full-time, though part-time may be considered for the right candidate. Flexible working options are available, and this role may be based in more than one location in the Dublin region dependent on need. Flexibility in approach is essential! The salary scale is €48,000-€54,882.71.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will:

Demonstrate a deep understanding of and respect for the cultural values, experiences and challenges faced by the Traveller community.

• Show a strong commitment to culturally sensitive mental health care and willingness to engage with Traveller representatives to ensure the service aligns with community needs.
• Possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to build trust with young clients and their families.
• Have a solid understanding of child protection and safeguarding practices to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all clients.
• Be flexible, adaptable, and non-judgmental, with the ability to meet the unique needs of the community.

Experience and Skills

• Relevant degree in Counselling, Psychotherapy, Psychology, or a related field AND possess a post graduate qualification specifically in Adolescent counselling.
• Accredited membership with a recognised professional body (e.g., IACP, IAHIP, BACP).
• Minimum of 2 years post qualification experience in adolescent counselling, ideally in culturally diverse or marginalised communities.
• Demonstrated experience working with families and building trust within a community setting.
• Knowledge of, or experience working with the Traveller community is highly desirable.
• Expertise in culturally sensitive counselling practices and the ability to adapt therapeutic approaches to suit cultural norms using a trauma-informed approach.
• Strong knowledge of safeguarding and child protection policies, with a proven track record of compliance.
• Ability to work independently and flexibly while collaborating with community representatives and stakeholders.

How to Apply

To apply, please send a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and a CV to claire@travellercounselling.ie by 5:00 PM on Friday March 7th.

This role offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the mental health and wellbeing of young Travellers. If you are passionate about working with young people and have the skills and experience to succeed in this role, we would love to hear from you!