About this role
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.