Job Description

43-2025 Counsellor Temporary Full Time Maternity Leave Replacement


We are hiring a Counsellor who is committed to providing compassionate, client-centered support and making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families. This is a unique opportunity to work as part of a collaborative clinical team delivering therapeutic services to a diverse population. The successful candidate will bring strong clinical judgement, trauma-informed practice, and a deep respect for the dignity and lived experience of every client.


Join a values-driven organization with over 100 years of service supporting Ottawa families through life's challenges, where your work will have a lasting impact, and your professional growth will be supported.



Location: Ottawa, Office-based


Start Date: Immediate


Position: Union


Salary Range: $57,641.05 to 64,757.03


Job ID: 43-2025 - Counsellor

ABOUT US

Family Services a la famille Ottawa (FSO-SFO) has been strengthening individuals and families--and, by extension, the Ottawa community--since 1914. We provide skillful and compassionate support to help people navigate mental health concerns, parenting challenges, and family conflict or violence. Through accessible counselling, support groups, and educational programs, families increase their knowledge and skills, adopt healthy strategies, build meaningful connections, and enhance resilience. We serve individuals across the lifespan and within all types of family constellations, including children, youth, transitional-aged youth, adults, seniors, couples, and families. Our work is grounded in the real needs of clients, the complex environments they live in, and a strong foundation of clinical and mental health expertise.


From Mothercare during the influenza epidemic of 1917, to supporting families during post-WWII reintegration, to redefining family therapy to reflect the diverse realities of "family"--FSO-SFO continues to innovate and evolve in response to the changing needs of our community.


We strive to utilize the best and promising practices, ensuring our services remain relevant and impactful. Today, 98% of clients report that working with FSO-SFO has had a positive impact on their lives.


As an accredited non-profit charitable organization, FSO-SFO is a trusted pillar of the Ottawa community. Our team is united by a commitment to well-being, belonging, community, accountability, and client-centered care. Join us in making a lasting difference for Ottawa families.

ABOUT THE POSITION

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Counsellor to join our dynamic Counselling team. At Family Services Ottawa (FSO), we are committed to providing high-quality counselling services to individuals, couples, families, and groups experiencing a range of mental health challenges. This role includes direct clinical service with women (cis and trans) who have experienced intimate partner abuse. The position will include participation in community development and contributing to agency activities.

Key responsibilities include:

Deliver evidence-informed, trauma-informed, and strengths-based counselling Conduct assessments and develop treatment plans with clients Provide individual and group counselling for clients experiencing gender-based violence Assist clients with navigating systems and accessing practical support (e.g., housing, income support, legal) Offer appropriate referrals and collaboration with external resources Advocate for clients when needed Participate in team meetings, staff development, supervision, and consultations Contribute to community outreach and development initiatives Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential client records and statistics Prepare correspondence and reports as required Contribute to agency committees and organizational initiatives

ABOUT YOU

You are an empathetic and skilled counselling professional with:

A master's degree in Social Work, Counselling Psychology, or a related field Registration in good standing with CRPO, OCSWSSW, or a relevant college 2-3 years' experience in psychotherapy with individuals, couples, or families Experience working with trauma and diverse populations Knowledge and experience in the area of gender-based violence; social and structural factors impacting women experiencing intimate partner violence and their children. Knowledge of legal, financial, housing, employment, and other social service resources in the community. Demonstrated experience conducting safety planning, strong communication, assessment, and organizational skills Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team setting Comfort with technology and client databases Fluency in English is required; ability to provide counselling services in Arabic or French is preferred

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Proof of legal entitlement to work in Canada


Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check


Availability for evening and weekend work



We look forward to hearing from you. FSO-SFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Accommodation is available throughout the recruitment process. Please let us know how we can best support you.


While we thank all candidates for their interest, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.