For more than 120 years, Hope Community Services has walked alongside West Australians, providing compassionate, practical support for people experiencing alcohol and other drug (AOD) challenges, mental health concerns, and social disadvantage.

Our Step-Up Step-Down (SUSD) service in Karratha is delivered in partnership with Richmind WA and provides short-term, residential mental health support for adults experiencing mental health challenges who may also have co-occurring alcohol and other drug concerns. Through a recovery-oriented, person-centred approach, we help people build resilience, strengthen wellbeing, and transition successfully back into the community.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Counsellor / Educator to join our SUSD team in Karratha on a fixed-term contract until 30 June 2027.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, you will provide specialist Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) assessment, counselling, case management, education and recovery support to consumers accessing the SUSD service. You will work collaboratively with Richmind WA, WA Country Health Service and other community partners to support integrated care, facilitate referrals, and help consumers achieve their recovery goals.

Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and harm minimisation, you will empower consumers to develop sustainable strategies for recovery while supporting their transition back into the community.

What's on Offer

- SCHADS Award Level 5.1
- Full-time, 38 hours per week
- Fixed-term contract until 30 June 2027
- Based in Karratha, WA
- Generous salary packaging (up to $15,900) to increase your take-home pay
- Ongoing professional development, clinical supervision and reflective practice
- Supportive multidisciplinary team workplace
- Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of people experiencing co-occurring mental health and AOD challenges

You'll Need – Essential

- Tertiary qualification in health, education,



behavioural or social sciences, youth work, mental health nursing, or an approved equivalent.
- Extensive experience (minimum 8 years) working within the Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) sector.
- Demonstrated experience supporting people with co-occurring AOD, mental health and physical health needs.
- Extensive knowledge of evidence-based interventions for alcohol and other drug use, including methamphetamine.
- Strong understanding of harm minimisation and recovery-oriented practice.
- Experience in AOD assessment, counselling, case management and recovery planning.
- Ability to contribute confidently within multidisciplinary teams and clinical review processes.
- Commitment to culturally secure practice and working respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication and relationship-building skills.
- Strong administration, record keeping and computer skills.
- Ability to work autonomously while contributing positively to a collaborative team.

Essential Pre-employment Requirements

- Current WA C or A Class Driver's Licence.
- Working with Children Check.
- National Police Clearance (issued within the last three months).
- Department of Justice Clearance.
- Willingness and ability to undertake outreach travel, including overnight stays where required.

Desirable

- Experience working with mandated clients.
- Knowledge of diversion and prevention programs.
- Experience working within regional or remote communities.
- Current knowledge of Equal Opportunity principles and legislation.

Next Steps

Please submit your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial phone screening followed by an interview.

Equal Opportunity Statement

HOPE is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and people with lived experience who meet the role requirements.

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📌 Counsellor Educator (Karratha)
🏢 Hope Community Services
📍 Karratha