Counsellor/Psychotherapist

Counsellor/Psychotherapist – Refugee Trauma Recovery (RTR)

Fixed-term for 12 months

Part-time, 30 hours per week

Wellington

About the role – Kōrero mō te tūranga

Our Refugee Trauma Recovery team provides a range of specialised mental health services that minimise the impact of traumatic experiences on the mental health of refugee clients and their families. The aim is to enhance the ability of refugees to resettle within New Zealand.

The Counsellor/Psychotherapist role focuses on direct clinical work with former refugees providing clinical and needs assessment, support, counselling, therapy, referral to specialist health providers, as well as advocacy with a range of national and local government agencies. The Counsellor/Psychotherapist may also provide some consultation, liaison, training, and support to other agencies that have refugee clients.

In this role you will:

• Assess client’s eligibility, needs, and provide culturally appropriate therapeutic interventions.
• Coordinate care, involve clients in decisions, and make referrals to relevant agencies.
• Advocate for client access to services, promoting self-care and mental health support within refugee communities.
• Offer clinical consultation and supervision to other agencies, co-facilitating therapeutic groups.
• Contribute to service planning, policy development, and support other refugee programs.
• Participate in self-reflective practice and collaborate as part of the Red Cross’ Migration team.

Who are we looking for? – Mā‎ wai te mahi nei?

We encourage you to apply for this role if you have:

• Strong understanding of the refugee settlement process, trauma, grief, loss, and mental health disorders (e.g., PTSD, depression, somatisation).
• Knowledge of New Zealand health and welfare structures, and legal frameworks (e.g., Privacy Act, Health Privacy Code).
• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in counselling, registration with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors or another approved professional body for counsellors.
• Extensive experience working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, providing direct service delivery.
• Cross-cultural communication skills with the ability to build rapport, work with interpreters, and apply therapeutic models for trauma and grief.
• Strong networking, advocacy, and presentation skills; ability to work independently, manage projects, and collaborate in a team setting.
• Experience in child and adolescent counselling is advantageous but not a requirement.

About New Zealand Red Cross

New Zealand Red Cross is part of the world's largest humanitarian network, with over 13,000 members and employees dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilising the power of humanity and increasing community resilience.

Guided by our Fundamental Principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality, we support people in times of need and help strengthen their resilience.

We are committed to having an accessible, diverse, inclusive, and barrier-free work environment where everyone can reach their full potential. We encourage all qualified persons who share our values and want to contribute to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace to apply.

Why work with us?

At New Zealand Red Cross, you’ll join a passionate and diverse team that values your contributions and shares your commitment to making a difference.

We are committed to represent the communities we serve, increasing diversity throughout our people and leadership, and creating a flexible and healthy work environment. Many roles offer flexible virtual/hybrid options to help our employees balance their personal and professional priorities.

Our benefits include:

• Five weeks annual leave
• Career development opportunities
• Annual flu vaccinations
• Discounts on Southern Cross health insurance

We also encourage employee networks, including Takatāpui and Rainbow Network, Rōpū Hāpai Māori and the Sustainability Network, to foster connection and collaboration across our diverse workforce.

Click below to download the job description and to apply for this position please click the 'Apply Now' button to be taken to the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page. If you are already viewing this via the New Zealand Red Cross Careers page, please click the active job description link below.

Please submit your application online, as we’re unable to accept direct applications. Your application must include the following documentation:

• A recent copy of CV/Resume

• Cover Letter

• Passport

• Legal Right to Work In New Zealand

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to be considered for this job. Applications close at 05:00 pm on 20/07/2026

If you wish to discuss this opportunity or for further information, please contact Ben Meates at ben.meates@redcross.org.nz

Note: We reserve the right to close applications before the closing date, so please register your interest early.

Click here for the Job Description