Children and Youth Counsellor

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

Children and Youth Counsellor

Karratha Women and Children’s Refuge

Based in Karratha, WA

Permanent full-time

Part-time negotiable minimum 0.6 FTE

Why this role matters

Children who have experienced family violence need safe, consistent and therapeutic support to rebuild their sense of security and wellbeing. This role creates a space where children feel heard, understood and supported as they begin to heal. Your work will help them make sense of their experiences, strengthen their emotional resilience and reconnect with the people who care for them. This is deeply meaningful work where every interaction has the potential to shape a child’s future in a positive way.

About the role

As the Children and Youth Counsellor you will provide evidence based therapeutic counselling and group work to children who have experienced family violence. You will support them with warmth and clinical skill, using trauma informed approaches that honour their voice and promote recovery. You will also work with non-offending parents to strengthen attachment and deepen their understanding of trauma and child development.

You will offer secondary consultation to the Family Violence team, contribute to collaborative care planning and work closely with internal and external services to ensure children and families receive coordinated and holistic support. This role suits someone who brings steadiness, compassion and a genuine commitment to creating safe and empowering environments for children.

This permanent full-time position is based in Karratha, WA at the Karratha Women and Children’s Refuge team, reporting to the Counselling Team Leader. The role is also available on a part-time basis and is negotiable up to a minimum of 0.6 FTE. Pay is in accordance with a SCHADS Level 6 subject to qualifications and experience.

How you will make an impact

• Provide therapeutic counselling and group programs that support children’s emotional recovery

• Support non offending parents to strengthen attachment and understand trauma impacts

• Conduct risk assessments and safety planning using TSA frameworks

• Offer secondary consultation to staff on trauma, risk and child centred practice

• Maintain high quality clinical notes and meet reporting requirements

• Work collaboratively with case managers and external services to support coordinated care

• Participate in networks that strengthen outcomes for children and families experiencing family violence

What you will bring

• Relevant degree qualification in social work, psychology or counselling

• Registration with a professional body such as AASW, APS or ACA

• Experience counselling children who have experienced trauma

• Experience with women and children who have experienced family violence

• Strong understanding of trauma informed practice and child development

• Ability to work independently while contributing to a supportive team environment

• Commitment to cultural safety and inclusive practice

• Strong communication and documentation skills

• Valid WA Working with Children Check

What we offer

As a registered not for profit organisation, we offer eligible employee’s meaningful benefits, including:

• Salary packaging benefits (up to $15,900 tax free) and Entertainment Benefit ($2,650 tax free)

• Employee Assistance Program – confidential counselling service

• Financial, retail and lifestyle discounts

• Generous paid parental leave (12 weeks for primary carers)

• Purchased leave options (up to 8 weeks)

• Discounted health and fitness programs through Fitness Passport

• Up to five days paid leave per year to support a Salvation Army program or activity

• A supportive, inclusive culture with passionate and dedicated team members

• A deeply rewarding role where you can positively influence people’s wellbeing

How to apply

Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the requisite skills and qualifications.

Applications will close as soon as a suitable candidate is secured .

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. W e are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration