Staff Counsellor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) was established in 2002 as a political peacekeeping mission. It is directed and supported by the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). The mission aims to assist in the peace process and promote stability in Afghanistan. UNAMA operates with a focus on human rights, governance, and the rule of law, and it engages with various stakeholders to foster peace and development in the region. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with multiple international and local partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Staff Counsellor position is crucial for providing psychological support and counselling services to UN personnel in Afghanistan. The role involves assessing the psychosocial needs of staff, including international and national employees, UN Volunteers, and contractors, particularly in emergency situations. The Staff Counsellor will deliver individual and group counselling sessions, addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, and work-life balance. The position requires a proactive approach to facilitate referrals to other services, monitor client progress, and develop educational materials to promote mental health awareness. The Staff Counsellor will also play a key role in implementing staff wellbeing initiatives and building effective relationships with stakeholders to enhance the overall support system for personnel.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Staff Counsellor will perform a variety of duties, including assessing the well-being and psychosocial needs of personnel, providing confidential counselling, facilitating referrals to relevant services, conducting clinical follow-ups, and developing psychoeducational materials. The role also involves preparing reports, maintaining accurate records, ensuring access to counselling services, collaborating with various sections to support individual cases, and promoting peer support mechanisms. The Staff Counsellor will compile training materials, facilitate workshops, monitor counselling programmes, and maintain confidentiality in accordance with professional standards and UN policies. Additional responsibilities may be assigned by the Chief, Medical Staff Counselling and Welfare Section.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Staff Counsellor position should possess strong professional skills in counselling and mental health support. They should demonstrate professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and respect for diversity. The ability to communicate effectively, plan and organize tasks, and adapt to changing circumstances is essential. A commitment to continuous learning and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams are also important qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Staff Counsellor position, typically including a degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Advanced training or certifications in counselling, mental health, or psychosocial support are highly desirable. Candidates should have a solid understanding of mental health issues and the ability to apply therapeutic techniques in a professional setting.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in counselling or mental health support, ideally within a humanitarian or international context. Experience working with diverse populations and in crisis situations is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of providing effective psychological support and managing complex cases, as well as familiarity with the cultural and traditional norms of Afghanistan.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Staff Counsellor position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of local languages, such as Dari or Pashto, is considered an asset and may enhance communication with personnel and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a national UN Volunteer role, meaning that the incumbent must be a resident of Afghanistan and familiar with the local culture. The position includes a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance to cover housing and living expenses, as well as life, health, and permanent disability insurance. In non-family duty stations classified as hardship categories D or E, a Well-Being Differential (WBD) will be provided monthly. The role is full-time and may involve travel to field offices across Afghanistan.