Counsellor, Interpersonal Violence

About the role We’re looking for an exceptional Counsellor – Interpersonal Violence to join our Student Health Service team. In this specialist role, you will provide trauma‑informed counselling and support to students affected by interpersonal violence, including sexual harm, family and relationship violence, harassment, coercion, and other forms of abuse. You will play a key role in supporting student wellbeing while contributing to a safer and more inclusive campus environment. Responsibilities Provide specialist trauma‑informed counselling, crisis intervention, risk assessment, and safety planning for students. Act as a key consultation resource for clinical and non‑clinical staff seeking guidance on responding to disclosures and situations involving interpersonal violence. Support staff to navigate risk assessment, safety concerns, referral pathways, and trauma‑informed responses. Deliver training, workshops, and capability‑building initiatives that strengthen staff confidence and organisational response. Work in partnership with the Violence Prevention Health Promoter to inform and shape violence prevention campaigns, education programmes, and awareness initiatives. Provide clinical expertise to ensure prevention messaging and educational activities are safe, evidence‑informed, and responsive to student needs. Contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and service improvements that strengthen the University’s response to interpersonal violence. Build effective relationships with specialist community agencies and develop coordinated pathways of care for students. Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary Student Health Service team committed to student wellbeing and success. Qualifications You are a fully registered mental health professional (e.g. counsellor, social worker, psychologist) with strong assessment, intervention, and case management skills. You have experience supporting people with mental health needs, delivering brief, recovery‑focused interventions, and connecting clients with the right services and supports. You bring a sound understanding of the Aotearoa mental health sector, including community services, referral pathways, and the factors that influence student wellbeing. Committed to culturally responsive practice, you work effectively with Māori, Pacific, Rainbow, and diverse student communities, providing inclusive, respectful, and compassionate care. You communicate clearly, build strong relationships, and work effectively both independently and within an interdisciplinary team, and across the University. Adaptable and organised, you remain steady under pressure and are committed to continuous learning, professional integrity, and contributing positively to student wellbeing. Benefits Opportunity to support student wellbeing and safety. Reduced university papers and career development opportunities. Up to 6.75 % employer contributions to Unisaver NZ superannuation scheme. Remuneration will be based on the skills, knowledge, and experience you bring to the role. Full‑time position (37.5 hours per week) based at our Hillcrest Campus. Application information All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted. Applications Close: Friday, 14 August 2026. Requisition number: 1003791. Equal Opportunity The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand in accordance with the New Zealand Immigration regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr