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Dv Counselor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ADVOCATE

Portland, OR · On-site

$21.03 - $28.05/hr

... DV shelter programs; employment/educational services; medical, mental health, and alcohol/drug screening, and advocacy for treatment and counseling; resources for financial empowerment, financial ...

Dv Counselor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$14

$26

$38

How much do dv counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for dv counselor in Portland, OR is $26.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.91 and $30.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a DV counselor?

DV Counselors, or Domestic Violence Counselors, are professionals trained to support individuals experiencing domestic violence. They provide counseling, crisis intervention, safety planning, and connect clients with resources such as shelters and legal assistance. DV Counselors work in various settings, including non-profits, shelters, and community organizations, to help survivors heal and regain independence. Their role is critical in promoting safety, empowerment, and recovery for those affected by domestic abuse.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DV counselor?

To thrive as a DV Counselor, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management software, legal documentation systems, and crisis intervention protocols is typically required. Exceptional active listening, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills help build trust and provide effective support to survivors. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring client safety, empowering individuals, and navigating complex emotional and legal situations.

What are some common challenges faced by DV counselors, and how can they effectively manage these challenges?

DV Counselors often encounter emotionally intense situations and may experience vicarious trauma due to the nature of their clients’ experiences. Managing boundaries, practicing self-care, and participating in regular supervision or peer support groups are essential for maintaining their own well-being. Additionally, DV Counselors must stay current with legal requirements and resources to provide appropriate support to clients. Collaboration with law enforcement, legal professionals, and social service agencies is also a frequent part of the role, requiring strong communication and advocacy skills.

What is the difference between Dv Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectDv CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically requires a state license or certification, such as CADC or LPCRequires similar credentials like CADC or LPC, often with additional certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in domestic violence shelters, counseling centers, or community agenciesWorks in rehab centers, clinics, or outpatient facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in domestic violence prevention and intervention programsPrimarily in addiction treatment and recovery programs

Both roles involve counseling and require similar certifications, but Dv Counselors focus on domestic violence issues, while Substance Abuse Counselors specialize in addiction recovery. They often work in different settings but share common skills and credentials.

What are popular job titles related to Dv Counselor jobs in Portland, OR?

For Dv Counselor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dv Counselor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Dv Counselor jobs in Portland, OR are:

Infographic showing various Dv Counselor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,668 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ADVOCATE

Portland, OR

SELF ENHANCEMENT INC
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees

$21.03 - $28.05/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

The Domestic Violence Advocate position at Community and Family Programs (CFP) is responsible for providing relationship-based, trauma informed services to individuals and families suffering from domestic and/or sexual violence, sex trafficking, and stalking in a way that is compassionate and effective and adheres to culturally specific best practices. This position reports to the SEI's Domestic Violence Programs Manager. The standard work schedule is 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, with some evenings and weekends.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide strengths-based culturally specific services to African American survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and culturally responsive services to all survivors.
  • Conduct trauma informed Safety & Stabilization (SSA) assessments and develop safety plans with participants.
  • Cofacilitate the TREM (Trauma Recovery & Empowerment Model) group for survivors of trauma (on rotating weekly basis)
  • Provide crisis-oriented services and support to women and families, including in home support when needed.
  • Attend court room hearings and/or assist with other legal matters such as restraining and stalking orders
  • Provide linkages/referrals/"warm hand offs" to housing and/or DV shelter programs; employment/educational services; medical, mental health, and alcohol/drug screening, and advocacy for treatment and counseling; resources for financial empowerment, financial literacy, and/or other culturally/population specific assistance or programs.
  • Participate in the Resource Coordination Team (DV Coordinated Access housing system) meetings and complete all associated paperwork necessary for referrals to the system.
  • Coordinate services with partner agencies, other social service agencies, and necessary medical facilities (i.e. DVERT, Gateway One Stop Center, DHS, job training, financial planning, etc.).
  • Connect survivors to SEI's wrap-around services including Parent Support Group, Parent Child Development Program, Parenting Classes or family advocacy resources, and/or other CFP programs and services.
  • Participate in case consultation sessions and facilitate trainings as requested.
  • Keep thorough and up-to-date client records in accordance with agency and contract file requirements.
  • Maintain necessary data for completion of program evaluation.
  • Attend scheduled training sessions (including advocate forums, Multnomah County meetings, DHS and SEI training) and other trainings or conferences geared toward professional growth or those otherwise required by the Manager. Attend all mandatory agency staff meetings.
  • Facilitate the administration of the DV STRA (Short Term Rental Assistance) Program. This includes enrollment of qualified survivors into the program and case management of all program participants.
  • Accept other appropriate duties/responsibilities as assigned by SEI management.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, public health, or a related field;

equivalent combination of education, professional experience, and relevant lived experience may be considered.

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience providing direct advocacy or support services to survivors of

domestic violence or related trauma.

  • Demonstrated experience delivering trauma informed, survivor centered, and strengths based services.
  • Knowledge of domestic violence dynamics, safety planning, crisis response, and survivor rights.
  • Knowledge of and ability to navigate government systems; child protective services, homeless housing, etc.
  • Willingness to complete the required 40 hour Domestic Violence Basic Advocacy training
  • Ability to engage survivors with empathy, cultural humility, and respect for self determination.
  • Strong understanding of confidentiality requirements, advocacy privilege, and ethical standards.
  • Strong organizational, time management, and documentation skills, including timely and accurate record keeping.
  • Must have current and valid state driver's license, in good standing with no insurability restrictions and must be insurable under SEI's auto insurance policy.

Note:This job description may change as programming evolves. SEI management reserves the right to amend this description at any time. Updated April 2026