Job Description

Victim Services of Durham Region (VSDR) is a non-profit charitable organization working in cooperation with community partners to assist victims of crime and tragic circumstance. We work to prevent violence through awareness and education. We provide on-site or over the phone crisis intervention services, including community based or self-referrals, as well as referrals from police. We are seeking a full-time Crisis Intervention Counsellor to provide trauma-informed, survivor-centered, culturally responsive support services.

The CIC will provide services in a way that honors Indigenous worldviews and recognizes the intersectionality that can occur for those we support. They embody an equity lens that reflects a dedication to anti-racism, anti-oppression and gender inclusive practices.

The CIC will have strong knowledge and awareness of Indigenous history and culture, an understanding of traditional teachings and experience working directly with and engaging Indigenous youth, with a specific focus on Missing Persons cases. The successful candidate will provide trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally responsive support to individuals and families impacted by the disappearance or return of a loved one. This role requires the ability to work in fast-paced, emotionally intense environments and collaborate closely with police and community partners..

Responsibilities

Provide phone and/or in-person support and crisis intervention including but not limited to case management, intake, needs assessment, safety planning, emotional support, provision of practical assistance and community referrals.

Provide short-term emotional support to victims through active listening, validating feelings, and respecting choices and decisions on the phone or in person.

Provide seamless referrals to longer-term community support services as required, and work in collaboration with various diverse community partners and police.

Build and maintain strong working relationships with key partners, community groups, and those with lived experience.

Complete applications to the Victim Quick Response Program.

Manage workflow of assigned cases daily.

Manage documentation and maintain confidentiality.

Compile relevant information for statistical reports.

Participate in team meetings and in public awareness activities, including occasional support on evenings or weekends as required.

Participate in ongoing training and development.

Other duties as assigned, adapted or determined by VSDR.

Qualifications

Social Service Worker or BSW or a related program and/or an equivalent combination of education/experience.

Strong knowledge and awareness of Indigenous history and culture, with an understanding of traditional teachings. Commitment to providing services that respects cultural beliefs, values, norms, ceremony, and teachings of Indigenous people.

Experience/knowledge about the criminal justice system, child welfare, programs and services for child/youth victims of crime and community support services

Experience in Indigenous youth engagement and community outreach.

Solid understanding and demonstrated experience in and commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, anti-racist and de-colonial practices and equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

Knowledge of intergenerational trauma and understanding of systemic barriers faced by BIPOC individuals.

A strong commitment to social justice and cultural safety.

Excellent oral and written communication and/or organizational skills. Ability to multi-task, set priorities and meet deadlines.

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to maintain strong working relationships and work effectively individually or as part of a team.

Proficient in computer applications such as Microsoft Office and Outlook.

Demonstrated high degree of initiative, judgment, flexibility and problem-solving ability.

Knowledge of trauma-informed care with experience in telephone support, suicide and crisis intervention.

Knowledge of services provided in the community and governmental agencies.

Required Language Skills: Fluent English - read, write, speak. Fluency in another language is considered an asset.

What We Offer:

A mission-driven and supportive team environment.

Opportunities for ongoing professional learning and development.

Competitive salary, benefits package and OMERS pension plan.

Working Environment:

Initial and ongoing employment is subject to an acceptable Criminal Record Check and Vulnerable Sector check.

May be required to work flexible hours (evenings, weekends) on an infrequent basis.

The successful candidate will typically work Monday - Friday 9-5 with occasional evening or weekend coverage. They will also provide on-call support (days, evenings, weekends, stats) on a rotational basis.

A valid Ontario's driver's license, insurance and a reliable vehicle is required to fulfill the requirements of this position.

To fulfill response time requirements, the candidate must reside in Durham Region or be willing and able to relocate to Durham by the position start date.

Mentally and physically able to perform all tasks assigned.

All responsibilities will be performed in keeping with the trauma-informed philosophical framework set out in the Mandate and Values of Victim Services of Durham Region.

How to Apply:

Successful application start date: September 15, 2025 or as soon as possible pending successful completion/clearance of background check and reference checks.

We are committed to a selection process and work environment that is inclusive and barrier free. We ask applicants to make any accommodation requests.

VSDR highly values the diversity of our staff and the communities we serve. We strongly encourage applications from visible minority/BIPOC group members, Indigenous persons, and persons with disabilities, members of sexual minority groups, and others who respect and represent the diversity of Durham Region.

Please submit your resume and cover letter to victimservices@drps.ca by August 10, 2025.

We thank all applicants but only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls or emails please.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Flexible schedule Mileage reimbursement On-site parking Paid time off Vision care
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-08-11
Expected start date: 2025-09-01