Our Quest:
We’re the Y WA.
The Y WA (formally YMCA) is a branch of the global Y not-for-profit organisation, formed in 1844 and have been contributing to our local Australian communities since 1851. We believe in the power of inspired young people, focused on flourishing outcomes through the delivery of education, childcare, youth services, and community programs to thousands of Australians every day. None of this would be possible without our special Y People!
We are seeking a School Counsellor interested in working at our new Yr10-12 campus in Armadale for a full time or part time capacity.
Our Y School:
We like to do things differently at The Y.
As a CaRE (Curriculum & Re-Engagement) School, we’re focussed on working with students at their point of need. Through on-entry assessments, consultation and collaborative approaches, we formulate strong Individual Education Plans, providing classroom support to work towards future goals via a combination of programs. This includes Literacy, Numeracy, Direct Instruction, STEAM (focussing on a range of WA Curriculum subjects) and social & emotional development sessions.
Our main focus is to assist students to re-engage with education in a way that makes sense to them, dismantling the barriers and creating a chance for them to flourish.
What you’ll be doing
Reporting to the Principal, you’ll play a key role in supporting the wellbeing, safety and development of young people at the Y School. You’ll provide culturally safe, trauma-informed and evidence-based counselling to students, working collaboratively with young people, families, school staff and external services to help students achieve their goals and stay engaged in education.
Working on a case-by-case basis, you may provide individual counselling, identify and respond to students’ wellbeing and mental health needs, complete risk assessments and safety plans where required, and connect young people with appropriate external services and supports. You’ll also work alongside the Youth Work Team, supporting students experiencing challenges with engagement and attendance, developing strategies to help them re-engage with school and their broader community.
A key part of the role will be building strong, respectful relationships with students and families, while maintaining professional boundaries, confidentiality and accurate case records. You’ll work closely with teachers, youth workers and school leadership to develop individualised support strategies and promote a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for young people.
You’ll be great in this role if you…
- Have relevant qualifications or experience in counselling, social work, behavioural or health sciences, with experience supporting young people.
- Bring a trauma-informed, empathetic and non-judgemental approach, with experience using evidence-based counselling practices.
- Have experience supporting young people experiencing complex or challenging circumstances, including risk assessment, safety planning, referrals and follow-up support.
- Build strong, collaborative relationships with young people, families, school staff and external service providers.
- Have strong communication, organisation and professional judgement skills, with the ability to work independently and remain calm in challenging situations.
- Are committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing and safety of children and young people
- Hold or can obtain a current WA Working with Children Check, National Police Clearance and WA ‘C’ Class Driver’s Licence.
Your Perks
- You’ll be earning $93,706 - $108,817 per annum + 12% Salary Packaging + Benefits
- Salary packaging up to $18,550 per annum. Salary packaging allows you to pay for your expenses with money from your salary before tax is taken out – meaning you pay less tax and take home more of your pay
- Access to our Employee Assistance Program
- Generous discounts on corporate healthcare (up to 8%)
- Growth & Professional Development Opportunities
- Refer a friend incentive! ($500)
- Buy a NEW CAR & save on tax (Novated Leasing on offer)
- Work for a WA based NFP making a real difference in our local community with unwavering focus and commitment to safeguarding children
- Potential career progression opportunities within The Y WA
Our latest survey results
At the Y WA, we thrive on feedback and deeply value our people’s insights that drive positive change. With 9% growth in employee engagement over the past 12 months, our latest survey our people love our open communication, recognition and the genuine care we provide for their wellbeing. They take pride in knowing their efforts impact our goals and make a real difference in the lives of children and young people. Join us and be part of a team that makes a lasting impact.
How to apply
Click on the “Apply” button below to submit your application. Please submit a cover letter and CV with your application. For the full job description click on the PDF file on the attachment link below. Should you require any further information please call Alaa Salim +0473 153 855 or email on [email protected]
Closing date: Thursday, the 17th of September, 2026
We may start interviews before the closing date.
At the Y, we are committed to empowering all Children and Young People to feel safe and be safe, at the Y, in their families and in their communities. As such, we ensure that all of our candidates are appropriately screened (including police checks) to make sure that the right people are in the right roles.
To learn more about our screening processes, click here to view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy: https://ymca.org.au/about-us/safeguarding-children-young-people/safeguardingresources/
The Y WA kindly requests no unsolicited resumes or approaches from recruitment agencies or third parties.
