School-Based Counsellor (Part-Time/Contract)

About CYPHER

The Centre for Youth Work Practice Harnessing Evidence & Research (CYPHER) is Singapore’s only youth work charity grounded in an evidence-based and peer-reviewed framework developed specifically for the local context. Our work aims to advance youth work practice and strengthen the evidence base of youth interventions and allied helping professions.

We are a registered charity and a member of the National Council of Social Service (NCSS).

Position Overview

CYPHER is seeking a Counsellor (Part-Time/Contract) to support the delivery of structured group intervention programmes (youth and young adults) in schools and community settings.

The successful candidate will conduct small-group sessions focusing on psychosocial development, life skills, and youth engagement. Programmes may include school-based initiatives as well as pilot intervention programmes supporting youth transitioning to adulthood.

This role is ideal for individuals with backgrounds in social work, counselling, psychology, or youth work who are interested in facilitating meaningful developmental programmes for adolescents and young adults. This role may also be suitable for early-career practitioners seeking applied experience in structured psychosocial intervention programmes.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Develop a therapeutic alliance and engage adolescents and older clients meaningfully while maintaining ethical and professional boundaries

• Facilitate activities (indoor & outdoor) and structured group sessions that support socio-emotional development and values-based learning

• Assist in planning and delivering intervention programmes, learning journeys, workshops, and outreach initiatives

• Support documentation, preparation of programme materials, and basic reporting

• Engage in therapeutic activities that may result in casework & counselling

• Participate in supervision and training sessions to strengthen practice and professional development

• Contribute to programme evaluation and continuous improvement where appropriate

Requirements

• Must have at least a Diploma in Social Work/ Social Sciences/Psychology/Counselling/ Youth Work. Graduates in similar disciplines are preferred.

• Must be registered with the Ministry of Education (MOE Instructor Registration)

• Must have at least 2 years of prior experience in facilitating or working with youth programmes. Relevant experience should specifically include engaging with secondary school students or youths in comparable settings

• Must be open to learning about CYPHER’s clinical frameworks

• Undergraduate students in Social Work, Psychology, and Counselling are welcome to apply if they fulfil the other requirements

• Able to commit up to 6–12 hours per week, typically on weekday afternoons (e.g., 2pm–5pm).

• Must be available and able to commit for projects (at least 1-2 times per week) from May to December 2026

• Should have strong interpersonal and communication skills, openness to learning, and professional maturity

• Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents only

Training & Supervision

Shortlisted candidates will undergo orientation and training prior to deployment. Ongoing supervision will be provided to support learning, reflective practice, and ethical service delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities

Successful candidates may gain exposure to:

• Practical experience in therapeutic work, including programme planning, implementation, and evaluation

• Skills in developing a sound therapeutic alliance

• Exposure to basic clinical concepts and applied mental health support

• Exposure to evidence-informed and contextualised clinical frameworks and practices

• Development of interpersonal, communication, and project management skills

• Exposure to non-profit and clinical operations, including community engagement strategies

• Practical understanding of case management, service coordination and transdisciplinary clinical work

Working Arrangement

• Part-time/Contract (Hourly)

• Typical commitment: 6 months, with flexibility depending on programme needs

• Work location may include external venues (e.g., schools/community sites), depending on assignment

• Session schedules are typically confirmed in advance and may vary depending on programme requirements

Remuneration

Hourly rate commensurate with qualifications and experience. This is a part-time role. The salary range listed reflects the equivalent full-time salary benchmark. Actual remuneration will be pro-rated based on hours worked.

Why Join CYPHER

• Be part of Singapore’s only youth-work charity that utilises an evidence-based framework developed for local youth

• Be part of a clinical centre where practice meets research, not just service delivery

• Receive structured supervision, learning, and development support

• Meaningful frontline engagement with those who need it most

• Opportunity to contribute to sector-wide impact, practice improvement, and research

• Supportive culture that values reflection, innovation, and practitioner growth

How to Apply

Please submit:

• Your complete CV

• Evidence of your active MOE Registration

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

For enquiries, please contact Ms Faith at [email protected]