JOB SUMMARY:

  The position will serve a critical role in the Human Trafficking Unit by providing survivors with trauma-informed counseling and support services. The position will entrust a trained mental health professional with assisting trafficking victims through the initial disclosure process and follow-up interviews.  The Human Trafficking Victim’s Advocate will also assist the survivor in navigating the process and procedures of the criminal justice system.  Services are not contingent upon an arrest; crisis and supportive services are provided nonetheless. 

 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
2. Ability to both interact and be comfortable with a diverse population
3. Knowledge of resources in the community
4. Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel and Outlook

 JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  Specific duties will include, but are not limited to, the following:

5. Engaging with survivors in the interview process, intervening with proper mental health protocols if a survivor begins to engage in counter-transference, decompensation, or other trauma related symptoms. 
6. Assessing survivors’ needs for services and connecting them to appropriate providers, as well as providing support services as needed.
7. Where appropriate, assisting survivors in securing suitable housing, and access to education opportunities, substance abuse rehabilitation programs and related social services. 
8. Frequent contact with prosecutors and other professionals to assess survivors’ needs, reevaluating placements and services where appropriate.  
9. Maintaining regular contact with survivors during the pendency of the criminal matter, ensuring they are in a secure environment, receiving any appropriate services, and that they are kept informed of the progress of the criminal matter and kept engaged in the criminal justice process.
10. Attend taskforce meetings, information fairs, professional training, and other meeting as directed.

 PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:

11. LCSW, LMHC, or LMSW required with at least two (2) years’ experience post-degree working with domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and/or substance abuse cases.
12. Past advocacy experience with rape and sexual assault victims preferred
13. Fluent Spanish speaker preferred
14. Familiarity with general court services and criminal law enforcement processes preferred
15. Prior experience in Forensic Interviewing (i.e. Gunderson method) and/or Forensic Experiential Trauma Interviewing (FETI) preferable but on-the-job training can be arranged
16. Knowledge of the neighborhoods and population of Bronx County
17. Ability to work in a fast-paced, non-structured environment