Social Work Program Facilitator

The Social Work Program Facilitator provides direct support services to women in Arise Collective's MATCH (Mothers & Their Children) and Women's Reentry Project (WRP) programs through facilitation of evidence-based groups. Using a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach grounded in core social work values and multi-disciplinary principles, this position supports participants in their reentry and recovery journeys by creating safe, supportive spaces for skill-building, healing, and growth.

The Social Work Program Facilitator works under the supervision of the Clinical Services Manager to deliver high-quality programming that deepens the effectiveness of Arise Collective's services and promotes social justice awareness both inside and outside the prison. As a member of an interdisciplinary care team that centers the voices and experience of people with lived experience, this position collaborates with actively engaged staff and board in line with the organization's mission, strategic and business plans, goals, and culture. The incumbent will work to ensure consistent implementation of trauma-informed and evidence-based programming that provides greater stability and support for women transitioning from incarceration.

KEY RESULT

Delivering consistent, high-quality trauma-informed, evidence-based group programming and accurate assessments and evaluations that support participant recovery, skill development, and successful reentry while maintaining trauma-informed, person-centered practices.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Trauma-Informed, Evidence-Based Group Facilitation - 60%

• Facilitate evidence-based groups for program participants, which may include but are not limited to: SMART Recovery, Seeking Safety, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills groups, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), mindfulness, and other trauma-informed curricula and modalities
• Create a safe, supportive, and inclusive group environment using strengths-based, person-centered approaches that honor participant dignity and lived experience
• Develop and prepare materials and curriculum content for each group session in collaboration with the Clinical Services Manager and Case Manager Lead
• Adapt facilitation style to meet diverse participant needs while maintaining fidelity to evidence-based models
• Co-facilitate and provide backup coverage as needed

Assessment and Evaluation Administration - 15%

• Administer standardized assessments including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) assessment, Brief Resilient Coping Scale, Women's Risk/Needs Assessment (WRNA), Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (CSSRS), and other validated instruments following established protocols
• Provide backup support for assessment administration as needed
• Maintain sensitivity to participant trauma history during assessment administration
• Report results and safety concerns to the Clinical Services Manager in a timely manner
• Assist with data entry and tracking of assessment outcomes, as needed

Documentation and Communication Recordkeeping – 10%

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of group attendance, participation, and relevant observations
• Complete required documentation in the electronic health record (EHR) system according to organizational standards
• Document participant progress, concerns, and significant interactions as appropriate
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all HIPAA and organizational privacy protocols

Collaboration and Communication– 10%

• Participate in regular clinical supervision with the Clinical Services Manager to discuss group dynamics, participant concerns, and professional development
• Communicate participant needs, safety concerns, and program feedback to the Clinical Services Manager and relevant program staff
• Collaborate with Case Managers, Peer Support Specialists, the MATCH and WRP Directors, other Arise Collective program staff, and prison staff to ensure coordinated participant support
• Attend staff meetings and trainings, as required
• Contribute to program development and quality improvement initiatives

Organizational Participation – 5%

• Participate in training on evidence-based practices, trauma-informed care, and facilitation skills
• Stay current on best practices in reentry services, substance use recovery, mental health, and trauma-informed approaches
• Engage in reflective practice and seek consultation on challenging situations
• Complete required organizational trainings and maintain any necessary certifications
• Support special events, workshops, and community-building activities, as needed
• Attend periodic mandatory organizational meetings and retreats, as able
• Assist with logistics and preparation for group programming
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES 

• Graduate degree (Master's or higher) in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or related field.
• Minimum four years of experience working with women, justice-involved individuals, people in recovery, and/or trauma survivors.
• Demonstrated high-level experience facilitating groups and/or leading educational workshops.
• Strong understanding of trauma-informed care principles and practices.
• Knowledge of substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and reentry challenges.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to create safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for diverse participants.
• Commitment to social justice, anti-oppression principles, and person-centered, strengths-based approaches.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency with computers and ability to learn electronic health record systems.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings as needed.
• Ability to pass background check required for working in correctional facilities.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND ATTRIBUTES: 

• Lived experience in or significant personal understanding of the dynamics and factors contributing to the criminal justice, mental health, substance use and/or domestic violence system involvement.
• Certification or training in one or more evidence-based practices (SMART Recovery Facilitator, Seeking Safety, DBT, WRAP, or similar).
• Certification or training in one or more alternative trauma-informed modalities (somatic experiencing, EMDR, brainspotting, TFCBT, art/music/horticulture therapy, etc.).
• Experience working specifically with women with histories of incarceration.
• Familiarity with North Carolina reentry services and community resources.
• Bilingual skills (Spanish preferred).
• Experience administering standardized assessments.
• Entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to be flexible and juggle multiple, disparate roles within a vibrant and growing organizational culture.
• Willingness to extend kindness, compassion and accountability to oneself and others.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

● Possess valid NC Driver’s License, satisfactory driving record and proof of insurance. 

● Be able to complete and pass NCDAC-required and/or organizational background checks.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

This position requires ordinary ambulatory skills as well as the ability to stand, walk, sit for extended periods during group facilitation; hand-eye coordination; arm, hand and finger dexterity for computer work and materials preparation; visual acuity; and the use of auditory senses. Ability to carry materials and supplies for group programming. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable those with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

WORK REQUIREMENTS 

This is both an on- and off-site position. Primary work location is inside North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women, with additional off-site work at community locations and Arise Collective's offices in Wake County for supervision, documentation, team meetings, and trainings. The role requires the ability to facilitate groups in various settings and interact with participants who have experienced significant trauma and adversity. Some travel between sites may be required. Schedule will be determined in collaboration with the Clinical Services Manager and Transition Education Specialist, and may vary based on program cycles and participant needs.

PRIMARY RELATIONSHIPS 

Must develop and maintain excellent relationships with Arise Collective staff and board, program participants, academic and other institutional partners, prison staff, and others. 

JOB TYPE 

Part-time, non-exempt position, approximately 15-25 hours per week, depending on program needs and group schedule. Hours may include some evenings and weekends to accommodate participant availability. Exact schedule determined in collaboration with Clinical Services Manager and contingent upon NCDPS facility access and program needs.