MHPSS Counselor Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been operational in Syria since 2012, focusing on providing essential services such as protection, health, economic recovery, and early childhood development programs. The organization has a significant presence in various regions including Idleb, Aleppo, Ar-Raqqa, Hassakeh, and Deir ez-Zor, with ongoing expansions into Hama, rural Damascus, and Homs. With a dedicated team of over 700 employees, the IRC has built strong community relationships and trust, which are crucial for effective service delivery. The organization plays a pivotal role in Syria’s NGO landscape, actively participating in donor and coordination forums, and adapting its strategies to meet the evolving needs of the population. As of December 2024, the IRC has initiated operations in Damascus to further extend its reach into newly accessible areas across Syria, including parts of Northeast and Northwest Syria, as well as other previously unreachable locations in South and Central Syria. The IRC is committed to maximizing coverage and efficiency in its operations, ensuring that vital services are delivered even in the most challenging conditions.

Job Overview:
The MHPSS Counselor Assistant will work under the guidance and direct supervision of the MHPSS Senior Officer. This role is crucial in supporting beneficiaries, including individuals, families, and communities at the IRC health facility site. The primary focus of the MHPSS Counselor Assistant is to enhance the individual and collective well-being of vulnerable populations, including children and adults, ensuring their protection from harm. The MHPSS Counselor Assistant will collaborate closely with the MHPSS Officer to implement mental health activities effectively, adhering to the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (MH GAP) guidelines. This position requires a proactive approach to facilitate operational needs in the field, ensuring seamless coordination with other team members at the clinic. The role is integral to the IRC's mission of providing comprehensive mental health support and ensuring that the needs of the community are met in a timely and effective manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The MHPSS Counselor Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities under the supervision of the Senior MHPSS Officer and with extended oversight from the MHPSS Manager. Key duties include conducting mental health assessments for individuals and families within the coverage areas of the Medical Unit or those referred by other agencies. The Counselor Assistant will develop care plans, deliver psychological interventions, and conduct follow-ups in close cooperation with trained General Practitioners (GPs) and Psychiatrists. Additionally, the role involves conducting group psychoeducation and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support (PSS) sessions for men and women to raise awareness about mental health issues and symptoms of mental health disorders. The Counselor Assistant will also contribute to awareness sessions on various mental health and psychosocial support topics alongside Community Health Workers (CHWs). It is essential to maintain client confidentiality by ensuring that all client files are securely stored and regularly audited. The Counselor Assistant will facilitate access to mental health services for protection clients and submit regular feedback reports to the MHPSS Officer, detailing progress against targets and any challenges encountered. The role also includes providing information, support, and advocacy to individuals and families, which may involve escorting them to relevant services when necessary. Collaboration with case managers and social workers from the Protection team is vital to streamline service provision and follow-up, including referrals to other PSS activities. The Counselor Assistant will liaise with other agencies, conduct follow-ups to assess progress, and develop a services mapping for the targeted area, updating it regularly. Participation in multidisciplinary teams, case conferences, workshops, and thematic trainings is expected, along with maintaining accurate and secure records. The Counselor Assistant will also contribute to the development of psychosocial support activities aimed at increasing the well-being of the targeted population and raise capacity-building needs regarding mental health. Other duties may be assigned by the supervisor to support and develop IRC programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in psychology or counseling, with relevant work experience in psychotherapy, clinical psychology, or counseling. Alternatively, a relevant certificate in Sociology or Education may be acceptable. A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in psychosocial support or psychological consultation is required, preferably in clinical or direct practice settings, particularly with conflict-affected populations. Candidates should be knowledgeable about and have utilized the IASC MHPSS guidelines and best practices in their previous roles. Experience working with refugee or internally displaced communities is essential, along with a solid understanding of mental health and psychosocial issues. Familiarity with standard legal procedures is also necessary. Experience conducting PSS sessions with children and women is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in psychology or counseling, with a focus on psychotherapy, clinical psychology, or counseling psychology. Candidates with relevant certifications in Sociology or Education may also be considered. The emphasis is on obtaining a degree that provides a strong foundation in mental health principles and practices, equipping the candidate with the necessary skills to support individuals and communities effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in psychosocial support or psychological consultation. This experience should ideally be in clinical or direct practice settings, with a preference for candidates who have worked with conflict-affected individuals or communities. A demonstrated understanding of mental health and psychosocial issues, as well as experience in conducting PSS sessions, particularly with vulnerable populations such as children and women, is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with beneficiaries and team members is crucial. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but Arabic is the primary language required for all interactions and documentation.

Additional Notes:
This position is field-based, requiring 100% travel to field sites, including Raqqa and Tal alsamn camp. The role may also involve attending workshops and meetings as required. The MHPSS Counselor Assistant will be expected to work full-time, with a commitment to the IRC's mission and values. The position may involve working under pressure and managing competing priorities, necessitating strong organizational and time management skills. The IRC is committed to promoting gender equality and ensuring the safety and empowerment of women and children, which is a core aspect of the organization's work.