Job Information
City of New York Special Victims Counselor in New York, New York
Job Description
The New York County District Attorney’s Office (DANY) has an immediate opening in its Survivor Services Unit (SSB)for a Special Victims Counselor. This position will provide trauma-informed supportive services and conduct client engagement to survivors of sex violence, domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse and their families. In this position the Special Victims Counselor is responsible for providing counseling and therapeutic services to assist all crime victims, witnesses, and their families. These services may include short term counseling, crisis intervention, community referrals, orientation to the criminal justice system, case status updates, and court support. Services will be provided in all office locations, including the main Office downtown, the Harlem Office, and/or the Washington Heights Office.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Conduct counseling/therapy sessions in either individual and/or group setting as well as mental health evaluation and concrete needs assessments to sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, and elder abuse victims and, witnesses.
Additionally, the counselor will provide therapeutic support to all crime victims, witnesses and families impacted by crime prosecuted by the New York County District Attorney’s Office.
Direct engagement with all victims, witnesses, and their families including explaining the criminal justice system, connecting them with services, conducting outreach and follow up calls; maintaining on-going contact to ensure they are receiving support and services.
Conduct crisis intervention interviews and needs assessments; assist with safety planning.
Collaborate with outside agencies to assist all crime victims and facilitate referrals to appropriate agencies. Follow up contact with victims to monitor their connection to services.
Assist with a range of direct services such as crime victim compensation applications, emergency shelter placements; partner with SSB Victim Service Advocates for additional concrete services.
Victim support and court accompaniment throughout the criminal justice process.
Attend meetings on behalf of the Survivor Services Bureau (SSB) when directed.
Act as a liaison between victims, families, and Assistant District Attorneys.
Introduce victims to the prosecutorial process and provide case status information.
Perform related duties as assigned.
In addition to the Minimum Qualification Requirements, candidates must possess the following:
Master’s degree in social work and License.
Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and License.
New York State LMSW/LCSW or LMHC.
Preferred Requirements/Skills:
Experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking and elder abuse.
Familiarity with the crime victims and/or criminal justice system.
Written and oral Spanish, or Mandarin, or Cantonese, or Korean, or French fluency.
ASL proficiency.
SIFI certified/eligible a plus.
Ability to work overtime and flexible hours including holidays, evenings, and weekends.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to demonstrate a high level of confidentiality and sensitivity to victim issues a must.
Ability to handle high caseload and set priorities.
Excellent engagement, crisis intervention, and assessment skills.
Dependable team player who works collaboratively and cooperatively with staff in a team-oriented environment.
How to Apply:
- Apply with a Cover Letter and Resume.
Hours/Shift:
Shifts could vary between, 9 am - 5 pm, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm, 10 am - 6 pm.
Overtime may be required, including nights and weekends.
Additional Information:
Current office employees: To be eligible for a transfer or promotion, staff must have already served at least 1 year in their current position and be in good standing. In addition, must meet the minimum qualifications of the position.
Looking for candidates that could commit to one (1) year to the hiring unit.
Authorization to work in the United States is required for this position.
Qualifications
Qualification Requirements
High school graduation or equivalent and three years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to duties described above; or
Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" above.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.