[Hiring] Relief Peer Counsellor @Nisa Foundation

Role Description

The Relief Peer Counsellor is responsible for providing confidential peer counselling services to our anonymous helpline callers by:

• Providing emotional support.
• Empowering callers to work towards an action plan.
• Providing resources where applicable.

This is an independent contractor position, expected to:

• Fill some shifts on a rotational basis during evenings and weekends.
• Step in for coverage of shifts during statutory holidays and staff PTOs.

Responsibilities

• Respond to incoming helpline calls from Muslim women in a confidential, anonymous, and non-judgmental manner using a peer counselling model.
• Provide empathetic and supportive listening to callers to build rapport and identify support needed.
• Guide callers to devise an action plan to empower them.
• Develop recovery plans, coping methods, and rehabilitation strategies with the client.
• Utilize helpline referral system to provide appropriate and informed referrals to callers.
• Adhere to helpline guidelines and policies when conducting day-to-day activities.
• Maintain a calm, professional, and respectful demeanor during every call.
• Update call log at the end of each shift to ensure all documentation is complete.
• Communicate with the helpline manager to report issues, seek guidance, or debrief as required.
• Ensure confidentiality of callers and any other highly sensitive information is maintained.
• Participate in mandatory trainings, case studies, and role play as required.
• Incorporate values of cultural competence, diversity, and inclusiveness in all aspects of work.

Qualifications

• Must possess both verbal and written fluency in both English and an additional language such as Arabic, Urdu, French, or Somali.
• Adherence to confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion.
• Consistent and dependable in communicating updates.
• Hotline experience is an asset.
• Knowledge of psychology, social services, and other related subjects is an asset.
• Knowledge of Islamic traditions and conduct is an asset.
• Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASiST) or Mental Health First Aid certification (MHFA) is an asset.
• Ideal for MSW students.

Requirements

• Be available on weekends, evenings, and statutory holidays.
• Value the intrinsic worth of others irrespective of their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and religious determination.
• Accept and respect differences of opinion, values, views, and beliefs of others that may be different from your own.
• Be open to feedback and willing to act upon feedback provided.
• Be able to offer unconditional positive regard to others regardless of their life story and life choices.
• Be able to work independently.

Company Description

Nisa Helpline is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to complying with both the Ontario Human Rights Code and the AODA.