WHO EMR Staff Counsellor

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working towards achieving health equity and improving health outcomes globally. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, among others. WHO is committed to fostering a culture of empowerment, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that diverse talents are harnessed to drive transformative change in global health.

Job Overview:
The WHO EMR Staff Counsellor plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support and counselling services to the WHO workforce and their families. This position is integral to addressing psychosocial hazards and needs within the organization, focusing on prevention, promotion, and support of workplace mental health and well-being. The Staff Counsellor will work at three strategic levels: organizational, team/managerial, and individual, ensuring that mental health initiatives are effectively implemented and that staff receive the necessary support during critical incidents. The incumbent will also contribute to the development of mental health programs and action plans, guiding the implementation of WHO's Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy across the region. This role requires a proactive approach to assessing psychological risk factors and providing guidance to leadership on occupational health and well-being action plans.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing effective and evidence-based psychosocial support and counselling to WHO staff and their families; facilitating referrals to external mental health providers and internal support services; delivering critical incident stress management following emergencies; adapting and implementing comprehensive mental health programs in collaboration with relevant counterparts; contributing to the development of regional action plans for mental health; advising leadership on occupational health and well-being; supporting managers on workplace mental health matters; conducting pre- and post-deployment briefings; participating in case management; designing and delivering training on mental health themes; strengthening the network of Peer Support Volunteers; coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure adequate psychosocial support; maintaining records of activities; and participating in interagency working groups focused on psychosocial support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced or postgraduate university degree in psychology, counselling, clinical psychology, psychiatry, or clinical social work, along with evidence of training in mental health counselling. A valid certification or license to practice in the country of origin is required. Additional training or certification in related fields such as occupational health, training facilitation, or conflict resolution is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively relevant counselling experience post-licensure, ideally in international or humanitarian settings, with some experience in outbreak and health emergencies being an asset. Working experience with UN organizations or international NGOs, particularly in hardship locations, is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced or postgraduate degree in a relevant field such as psychology, counselling, clinical psychology, psychiatry, or clinical social work. Candidates must also have training in mental health counselling and a valid certification or license to practice in their country of origin. Additional training in related areas such as occupational health, substance abuse, or conflict resolution is considered a plus.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional counselling experience post-licensure, with a focus on providing services in international or humanitarian contexts. Candidates should have experience in managing psychosocial risks and providing support in outbreak and health emergencies. Experience working with UN organizations or international NGOs, particularly in challenging environments, is highly desirable. Familiarity with occupational health settings is also beneficial.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within WHO. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic is desirable, as it enhances communication with local staff and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the Professional category of WHO and offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335, with additional benefits such as a variable post adjustment based on the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The role may involve international recruitment, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their geographical location. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, actively encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented Member States. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and has zero tolerance for misconduct, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.