Helplines Counsellor

About Us

At Presbyterian Support Northern, we are dedicated to fostering community wellbeing and helping individuals thrive. Our extensive team of 900 staff serves areas from Taupo to Whangarei, offering essential health and social services through programs such as Enliven, Family Works, Lifeline, and Shine. Our mission is to enrich clients' lives by upholding our core values of Hope, Trust & Integrity, Compassion, Partnership, and honoring Tangata Whenua.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Lifeline Counsellor to join our committed team providing professional counselling and emotional support across New Zealand. This vital role involves responding to various challenges including distress, anxiety, loneliness, relationship issues, and crises via phone and text.

You will employ your counselling expertise to rapidly establish rapport, listen empathetically without judgment, assess individual needs, and offer empowering, safe, and effective support during times of need. This role is deeply rewarding, with every engagement having the potential to change lives positively.

Work Schedule

The position offers a choice between 32 or 40 hours weekly, organized on a fortnightly roster covering two shifts:

• 7:00 am to 3:30 pm
• 3:30 pm to 12:00 am

Availability for both shifts is required, including at least one weekend per fortnight.

Required Skills and Experience

• A relevant qualification in Social Services such as counselling, social work, or nursing, with full registration from the appropriate board.
• Proven experience in counselling or therapeutic support roles.
• Excellent communication and active listening capabilities to establish trust quickly through phone and text.
• The ability to remain composed, compassionate, and professional when assisting individuals in significant distress.
• Passion for delivering respectful, impactful, and empowering support.
• Ability to work independently while positively contributing to a team environment.
• Flexibility to work 32 or 40 hours per week across shift patterns, including evenings and weekends.

Benefits

• Boost Programme: Immediate access to discounts on gym memberships, holiday deals, and offers from over 50 leading New Zealand brands.
• Referral Bonus: A $200 incentive for each successful referral to positions within Presbyterian Support Northern.
• Employee Recognition: Acknowledgement for long service and exemplifying company values.
• Long Service Leave: Additional 5 days leave awarded after 5 years of service.
• KiwiSaver: Employer contributions provided on top of base pay.
• Leave Purchasing: Opportunity to buy up to 10 extra annual leave days yearly.
• Wellbeing Support: Confidential assistance and online resources available through the Employee Assistance Programme for staff and their families.
• Free Annual Flu Vaccinations to support health and wellbeing.
• PSN Scholarship: Financial and academic aid for professional development and higher education.

Diversity and Inclusion

We actively foster an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued. Initiatives include being a dementia-friendly organization, a DVFREE Tick accredited employer, membership in Te Uru Tāngata Centre for Workplace Inclusion, and participation in the Pride Pledge.

Contact

Our people are the cornerstone of success. For questions or role profiles, please reach out to Recruitment@psn.org.nz.

Join us and contribute meaningfully to making a difference in your community.