Jobs Where You Can Help People Who Are in Dangerous Situations
Guy Clennett
Some people possess a natural affinity for helping others. Their caring and empathetic natures draw them towards situations that they can have a positive impact on, and they thrive in an environment where they can make a real difference in other people’s lives.
Many of those who are blessed with this type of personality find themselves in a caregiving career, while those who don’t often feel unsatisfied. With job satisfaction instrumental in raising employee productivity, lowering turnover and ensuring employee loyalty, being emotionally gratified by meaningful job benefits you, your employer and most importantly, your client.
With numerous avenues and career paths to undertake in this extensive field, we take a prudent look at two, critical roles that not only care for others but support and guide vulnerable people who find themselves in dangerous situations.
Substance abuse counsellor
Working with people who have addictions to a variety of substances, your innate propensity for compassion will be well exercised in this role.
Your primary job is to evaluate a client’s needs and provide support to them as well as their families. You will help navigate a winding road emotionally and physically in their recovery from overpowering and life-threatening behaviours.
The incredible fulfilment to be found here is immeasurable.
Learn more about how to become a substance abuse counsellor.
Industry statistics
24.8%
projected job growth in the next five years
$82,000
Median full-time non-managerial salary
What are the responsibilities?
The role of a substance abuse counsellor includes but is not limited to:
- Assessment of needs concerning individuals with drug and alcohol abuse problems.
- Conduct interviews and therapy meetings with individuals, groups or family of patients.
- Educating and recommending different forms of treatment plans.
- Assisting in collaboration with other healthcare professionals and social workers, you will help an individual access the right facilities.
- Monitoring of patients progress and advising accordingly.
- Update patient files with vital information.
What skills do you need?
Usually, a formal qualification is required to attain this role. A great place to start is a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs or a combined course including mental health studies. Then you can investigate further education as your career evolves.
This way can also be friendlier on the budget, with options to study at your own pace and potentially retain other employment as you progress. You can find out more here.
In addition to formal training, it is recommended that newcomers to the industry engage in some volunteer work experience through a reputable non-profit program.
What kind of person would thrive in this role?
Compassionate yet assertive
A nurturing, compassionate individual is well-suited for this role. However, to be successful in supporting a person with a strong addiction, you need to be assertive, and at times exercise a tough-love approach.
Communicative and adaptable
It is imperative that your listening, decision-making and communication skills are second-to-none and that you can adapt your approach to different scenarios and personalities.
Professional and confidential
Above all else, a substance abuse counsellor must be professional, uphold confidentiality agreements and genuinely have the best interest of their patients in mind.
Domestic and family violence support
Working with vulnerable people affected by violence can be an intensely emotional job.
Around 1.5 million women and over 500 thousand men in Australia have been experiencing physical violence from a partner since the age of 15. More than 1 million children in Australia are affected by domestic and family violence.
But with hard work and emotional sacrifice comes incredible, gratifying rewards. This hands-on and client-focused role will ultimately help break the patterns of abuse. Your impact will normalise a client’s thoughts and feelings, and build a safe network of support for entire families suffering from this highly destructive and consequential national health and welfare issue.
Industry statistics
29.3%
projected job growth in the next five years
$81,000
Median full-time non-managerial salary
What are the responsibilities?
The role of a domestic and family violence support worker includes but is not limited to:
- Conducting risk assessments and providing recommendations for support and safety measures.
- Crisis response, including family interventions.
- Conducting either individual or group therapy sessions.
- Supporting clients in completing Domestic Violence Orders, housing and financial support programs.
- Community support and education.
- Monitoring clients and managing cases moving forward.
- Contributing to strategy, planning, policy and practice development.
What skills do you need?
Again, a formal qualification is usually required to attain a job in this field. Still, with courses available in counselling and family and domestic support available, there are plenty of avenues, part-time or full-time (allowing you to tailor your learning to your life and budget), for you to make a start.
With on-the-job training highly regarded when seeking entry into a new career, and with a role as sensitive as family violence, we recommend entering a volunteer program for invaluable insight and experience.
What kind of person would thrive in this role?
Emotionally intelligent
A highly insightful, empathetic and caring person would be suitable for this career path.
Assertive and confident
But, with this challenging and highly emotive role, there is a strong need for assertiveness, confidence and authority. While somebody can learn these attributes, it is essential that you fully understand the gravity of the situations you will be privy to.
Ready to fulfil your passion for helping others?
The pursuit for the perfect job can be overwhelming, but your ideal role can be just around the corner, fulfilling your need to help people and protect them from dangerous and volatile situations.
While we can help with the integral training solutions, the best employee in this complex field has a heart to serve and the inherent talent to care and protect.
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