Support Group Facilitator

Job Summary:

The +YOU Knowledge and Wellness Group Facilitator is responsible for organizing and leading group sessions for adults with LGBTQ+ youth in their lives. The facilitator provides guidance and education, ensures open communication, fosters a sense of community, and supports individuals through shared experiences and resources.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Group Coordination:

• Actively recruit participants for the support group.
• Plan and organize regular support group meetings.
• Schedule sessions and ensure all participants are informed of meeting times and locations.
• Ensure that the support group is accessible and meets the needs of participants.

1. Facilitation:

• Use the developed Evidence Based Curriculum to lead group discussions that are trauma informed.
• Lead and moderate group discussions to ensure that they remain respectful, inclusive, and productive.
• Provide guidance and encouragement while respecting the group’s structure and participants’ autonomy.
• Establish group guidelines and ensure adherence to them.

1. Participant Support:

• Create a welcoming and non-judgmental environment for all participants.
• Address any concerns or conflicts within the group.
• Offer individual support when necessary and refer participants to additional resources, such as counseling services.

1. Administrative Tasks:

• Maintain accurate attendance records and participant information in compliance with confidentiality standards.
• Prepare and distribute materials relevant to the support group’s focus.
• Report regularly to supervisors or relevant agencies on the group’s progress and challenges.

1. Collaboration:

• Coordinate with other professionals (e.g., social workers, counselors) to ensure that the group’s needs are met.
• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, offering referrals to additional services when appropriate.

1. Program Evaluation:

• Collect feedback from participants to assess the effectiveness of the group.
• Implement improvements based on feedback to enhance the group’s value and impact.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field, preferred (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: Prior experience facilitating support groups or working in mental health, social work, or related setting. Experience with the specific population served (e.g., mental health, addiction recovery, grief) is highly beneficial.
• Skills:
  • Strong communication and active listening skills.
  • Empathy, patience, and the ability to build rapport with diverse individuals.
  • Conflict resolution and group management skills.
  • Organizational skills to manage group logistics and records.
  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries while being supportive.

Working Conditions:

• Typically works in a community center, healthcare facility, library, or non-profit setting.
• Will require evening or weekend hours to accommodate group schedules.
• Regular contact with individuals who may be dealing with sensitive or emotional issues.
• Compensation: $25 per hour

Courage+’s +You Support Groups are made possible wholly through funding by our partners at Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin and the Medical College of Wisconsin.