Counsellor or Social Worker

Role overview

An established community-focused organisation in Northland is looking for a caring and driven practitioner to support rangatahi through school-based wellbeing, mental health, addiction, and early-intervention services. This position is centred on making a positive difference for young people through practical support, education, and relationship-based practice.

The opportunity is open to people with backgrounds in counselling, social work, youth work, mental health, addictions, public health, nursing, or broader community support. Candidates who are already registered with DAPAANZ or another relevant professional body, those working toward registration, and those with qualifications that could lead to registration in future are encouraged to have a conversation.

What the role involves

• Working mainly in school settings with rangatahi.
• Providing short-term support, practical guidance, wellbeing strategies, and education to strengthen resilience and encourage positive decision-making.
• Supporting young people who are experiencing mental health, wellbeing, or addiction-related concerns.
• Using brief interventions, harm-reduction approaches, and early-intervention methods.
• Developing trusted relationships with young people, whānau, schools, and wider community partners.
• Completing assessments and contributing to support planning where suitable.
• Working closely with a multidisciplinary team.
• Keeping clear and accurate records and case notes.

About you

They are seeking someone who has one-to-one counselling experience and a genuine commitment to working with youth and young adults. Experience in mental health, addictions, community work, public health, or youth services will be highly relevant.

You should be comfortable carrying out risk assessments, supporting complex needs, and applying a strengths-based, harm-reduction approach. Strong relationship-building ability, clear communication, cultural awareness, and a commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles are important for this role. A full driver’s licence is required.

Registration and qualification pathways

• Applicants may hold registration with DAPAANZ, NZAC, SWRB, or another suitable professional body.
• Those with relevant qualifications and experience that could support progress toward professional registration are also welcome.
• People who have recently completed a qualification and are beginning their career in rangatahi support may also be considered.

What is offered

• Work that has a real impact for rangatahi in school environments.
• Regular supervision and opportunities for ongoing professional development.
• Assistance to work toward professional registration where relevant.
• A supportive, collaborative team culture.
• Room to develop your career in mental health and addiction services.
• Indemnity cover and health insurance packages.

Next step

If you are motivated by supporting rangatahi and want to learn more, this is a great opportunity to reach out and explore the role further.

A contact number is provided for more information.