International Consultant - MHPSS Specialist

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 over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on improving health outcomes and addressing health crises globally, particularly in regions facing conflict and humanitarian emergencies.

Job Overview:
The consultancy role of the International Consultant - MHPSS Specialist is crucial for the ongoing support of the WHO Mental Health program in Gaza and the West Bank. The primary objective is to enhance the capacity of mental health professionals and health workers through targeted training and technical support. This position aims to ensure the sustainability and quality assurance of mental health initiatives, particularly in response to the ongoing mental health crisis exacerbated by the recent conflict in Gaza. The consultant will provide training for UNRWA health workers, focusing on the implementation of the 'Helping the Helpers' guidelines and ensuring effective coordination of mental health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support (MHPSS) services. The role requires a deep understanding of the local context and the ability to adapt training and support mechanisms to meet the urgent needs of the population affected by the crisis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for supervising the rollout of training programs, providing advanced training sessions, and ensuring quality assurance for trainers. Key duties include:

• Supervising the implementation of mhGAP-HIG, PM, SH, and Thinking Healthy curricula by providing ongoing mentorship to trainers.
• Conducting online training sessions for UNRWA health workers in Gaza.
• Monitoring and evaluating the quality of cascade trainings conducted by supervised trainers.
• Strengthening MHPSS coordination mechanisms by providing technical support to MHPSS TWG co-chairs in Gaza and the West Bank.
• Implementing quality assurance mechanisms for MHPSS activities, including needs assessments and technical reviews of training materials.
• Finalizing and institutionalizing the 'Helping the Helpers' program and rolling out guidelines to selected organizations through structured training workshops.
• Providing post-training follow-up support and monitoring to ensure effective implementation of MHPSS interventions.
• Conducting monthly group supervision sessions to support the fidelity and sustainability of PM delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree at the master’s level in mental health, psychology, MHPSS, or counseling. A degree in psychiatry is desirable. Essential qualifications include a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in MHPSS within emergency contexts, including preparedness, response, and coordination. Expertise in developing guidelines for 'Helping the Helpers' and conducting training of trainers on MHPSS guidelines is also desirable. Candidates should demonstrate advanced skills in facilitating remote training workshops, knowledge of IASC MHPSS RG guidelines, and the ability to manage various activities effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree at the master’s level in fields related to mental health, psychology, MHPSS, or counseling. A degree in psychiatry is considered an asset. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their expertise in mental health and psychosocial support, particularly in emergency settings.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 10 years in the field of MHPSS, particularly in emergency contexts. This experience should encompass preparedness, response, and coordination efforts in mental health services. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in challenging environments and demonstrating resilience and adaptability in their approach to mental health interventions.

Languages:
Proficiency in both spoken and written Arabic and English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should possess advanced language skills to effectively communicate and deliver training sessions in both languages. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 3 months, with the possibility of a 6-month extension, totaling 45 working days. The consultant will work remotely, with a daily rate of USD 500-62

• Living expenses are not applicable as the consultant will be home-based. Candidates should be aware that only those under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be part of the screening process. WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must provide proof of relevant educational qualifications and may be required to undergo background verification. WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users.