Keys of Hope Counselor
About The Position
YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley is on a mission to eliminate racism and empower women across East Tennessee. Every day, we put this mission into action through life-saving and life-changing programs that support women, children, and families in six counties. Rooted in the values of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity, we work to strengthen communities and create opportunities for all. We are a dynamic, mission-driven organization that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth. Join a passionate team making a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve. Under the general supervision of the Keys of Hope Program Manager, the Keys of Hope Counselor provides supportive counseling and case management for participants in the YWCA Jenny Boyd Keys of Hope Women’s Program. This program offers supportive housing and wraparound services for women rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, or other crises. The Counselor works directly with residents to support personal goal setting, housing stability, and connection to community resources using a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field required.
- At least one to two years of experience in social services, housing programs, or related human services preferred.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care, recovery support, and housing stability programs preferred.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to maintain accurate documentation and manage multiple responsibilities.
- Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Sensitivity to the needs of individuals facing barriers to housing and self-sufficiency.
- Commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive.
Responsibilities
- Provide supportive counseling and case management to Keys of Hope residents.
- Work collaboratively with residents to develop individualized goal plans that support housing stability, employment, financial stability, and personal growth.
- Conduct regular one-on-one meetings with participants to track progress and address barriers.
- Assist residents in accessing healthcare, mental health services, employment resources, education, and other community supports.
- Provide referrals and support that promote long-term stability and independence.
- Utilize trauma-informed practices and maintain professional boundaries in all client interactions.
- Assist with resident orientation and onboarding into the Keys of Hope program.
- Facilitate or support life-skills workshops, recovery groups, or other programming that promotes empowerment and self-sufficiency.
- Support the development of a safe, respectful, and supportive residential community environment.
- Assist the Program Manager in maintaining program structure and consistency.
- Maintain accurate and timely client records and case notes.
- Enter and maintain program data in EmpowerDB and KnoxHMIS as required.
- Track client progress toward program goals and outcomes.
- Ensure documentation meets agency, grant, and regulatory requirements.
- Respond appropriately to participant needs and assist with crisis intervention when necessary.
- Collaborate with program staff and community partners to ensure residents receive appropriate services.
- Participate in staff meetings and contribute to program planning and continuous improvement.
- Participate in staff trainings, organizational meetings, and professional development opportunities.
- Serve in a rotating on-call capacity as assigned.
- Perform other duties as needed to support organizational goals.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Short-term and long-term disability coverage
- Life insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
- Competitive retirement plan with employer contribution
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, mental health days, 10 holidays, and office closure between Christmas and New Year’s
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Number of Employees
1-10 employees
