Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar ("Mechanism") was established by the Human Rights Council in its resolution 39/2, adopted on 27 September 201

• Its mission is to investigate serious international crimes, including crimes against humanity, war crimes, and genocide, as well as other violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law. The Mechanism was welcomed by the General Assembly in its resolution 73/264, adopted on 22 December 201
• The organization operates with a focus on human rights and justice, aiming to provide accountability for victims and survivors of serious crimes. The Mechanism is composed of a dedicated team of professionals working across various disciplines to ensure thorough investigations and support for witnesses and victims. The organization is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and survivor-centered approaches in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support Consultant will play a crucial role in providing psychosocial support to witnesses involved in investigations conducted by the Mechanism. This position requires the consultant to conduct assessments, facilitate support, and ensure the well-being of witnesses before, during, and after their interactions with the Mechanism. The consultant will be responsible for preparing the environment and materials necessary for witness support, conducting comprehensive psychosocial risk assessments, and providing psychological support sessions. The role also involves maintaining records of materials needed for witness well-being, advising investigative teams on ethical engagement with witnesses, and drafting reports on psychosocial aspects of witness protection. The consultant will work closely with the Witness Support Officer and other team members to ensure that witnesses receive the necessary support and that their rights and dignity are upheld throughout the investigation process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Consultant will have a variety of responsibilities, including: conducting individual psychosocial assessments of witnesses and victims to identify psychosocial risks and protective factors; ensuring that the witness rest area is well-maintained and conducive to psychosocial assessments; maintaining records of materials and tools required for witness support; providing psychological support sessions for witnesses and victims; facilitating referrals to external professionals and services; advising investigative teams on safe and ethical approaches to witness engagement; collaborating with the Witness Protection and Support Team to provide psychosocial recommendations; and drafting reports on psychosocial aspects of witness protection, including follow-up calls. The consultant will also be responsible for conducting debriefings and sharing recommendations with team members, as well as updating the MHPSS Emergency and Support Action Plan with field information.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree in Psychology (Clinical or Forensic psychology or a related field). Alternatively, a first-level university degree in the same fields combined with at least two years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of professional experience in psychological assessment and support, particularly with vulnerable groups such as victims of serious crimes and highly traumatized individuals, is required. Additionally, experience in mental health and psychosocial support, particularly in trauma, crisis intervention, and resilience-building, is essential. Candidates should also have experience working with vulnerable populations, including survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), children, and persons with disabilities. Experience with victims and refugees from the Rohingya population is desirable, as is experience in liaising with external service providers to ensure smooth referral processes and access to appropriate care.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an Advanced University Degree in Psychology, specifically in Clinical or Forensic psychology or a related field. In cases where candidates possess a first-level university degree in the same fields, they must also have at least two years of qualifying experience to be considered for the role. This educational requirement ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in psychological principles and practices, which is critical for effectively supporting witnesses and conducting assessments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in psychological assessment and support, particularly with vulnerable groups such as victims of serious crimes and highly traumatized individuals. Candidates should have experience in mental health and psychosocial support, with a focus on trauma, crisis intervention, and resilience-building. Additionally, experience working with vulnerable populations, including survivors of SGBV, children, and persons with disabilities, is essential. Experience with victims and refugees from the Rohingya population is considered desirable, as is experience in liaising with external service providers to facilitate access to appropriate care and support.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, confidence in oral Rohingya, Burmese, or other Myanmar languages is desirable, as it may enhance communication with witnesses from those backgrounds and improve the effectiveness of support provided.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the contract is up to a maximum of 54 working days through 30 November 2026, according to the 2026 mission plan, subject to the relevant authorities approving the mission dates. The tentative schedule includes 14 days in May-June 2026, 30 days in September-November 2026, and 10 days throughout the year 202

• The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training, and does not request information on applicants' bank accounts.