Counselling Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM has a mission to ensure the orderly and humane management of migration, to promote international cooperation on migration issues, to assist in the search for practical solutions to migration problems, and to provide humanitarian assistance to migrants in need. IOM operates in over 100 countries worldwide, with a workforce of more than 17,000 employees. In Ireland, IOM has been active since 2001, focusing on various aspects of migration management, including Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Resettlement, Family Reunification, Counter-Trafficking, Protection, Integration Support, and Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS).

Job Overview:
The Counselling Associate position is crucial for the implementation of mental health and psychosocial support services for international protection seekers residing in transit accommodation centers in Ireland. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Chief of Mission and the Senior Counselling Associate, providing individual and group counselling to vulnerable populations. The role involves coordinating with various team members to integrate mental health considerations into community-based activities, conducting assessments, designing psychoeducation sessions, and facilitating training for humanitarian actors. The Counselling Associate will also be responsible for developing awareness campaigns related to mental health and ensuring the confidentiality of medical information. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying gaps in services and developing initiatives to enhance the capacity of existing support provisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counselling Associate will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing individual and group counselling to international protection applicants.
• Coordinating with the Site Coordinator Assistant and team members to integrate mental health considerations into community activities.
• Conducting rapid MHPSS assessments and collaborating with social workers to inform referral mechanisms.
• Designing and supervising psychoeducation sessions and artistic mediation activities.
• Delivering training sessions in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and basic counselling skills to various stakeholders.
• Identifying and referring individuals with severe mental disorders to appropriate services.
• Developing and disseminating awareness messages related to mental health.
• Organizing support groups and forums for community engagement.
• Facilitating MHPSS needs assessments and mapping existing support provisions. 1
• Reporting daily activities and preparing statistical reports. 1
• Identifying service gaps and coordinating with project management for further action. 1
• Maintaining a mental health referral system for refugees and ensuring confidentiality of medical information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate university degree in Clinical Psychology, Counselling Psychology, Educational Psychology, Pastoral Counselling, Counselling Social Work, or a related mental health care profession. A Master’s degree in these fields is considered an advantage. Registration or chartered membership with the equivalent of the Psychological Association is also an asset. Candidates should demonstrate excellent clinical skills, interpersonal skills, intercultural competence, and culture-specific knowledge.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a postgraduate university degree in relevant fields such as Clinical Psychology, Counselling Psychology, or related mental health disciplines. Accreditation from recognized institutions listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database is essential. A Master’s degree is preferred, and registration with a psychological association is advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant work experience, particularly in clinical settings or with populations in need of mental health support. Previous experience in counselling and protection activities, especially in emergency response settings, is highly desirable. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or government departments is also beneficial. Knowledge of PFA and IASC guidelines for MHPSS in emergencies is an advantage, along with a valid driver’s license and a minimum of five years of driving experience.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in any other IOM official language is advantageous. Additionally, working knowledge of languages such as Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Georgian, or Somali would be beneficial for effective communication with diverse populations.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Ireland will be considered. The appointment is contingent upon medical fitness certification and verification of residency and visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for similar positions for 24 months, and any offer is subject to funding confirmation.