Psychologist and Mental Health Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international humanitarian organization that provides medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members who are dedicated to delivering emergency medical care and support. The organization is committed to the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence, ensuring that aid reaches those in need regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation.

Job Overview:
As a mental health specialist with MSF, you will play a crucial role in providing psychological support to individuals affected by various traumatic experiences, including survivors of natural disasters, sexual violence, and those living with HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis. Your primary responsibilities will include delivering clinical consultations, organizing psycho-pedagogical activities, and training local mental health professionals to ensure the continuity of care. You will be expected to adapt therapeutic tools to fit local cultural contexts and respond to the evolving needs of the communities you serve. This position requires a strong commitment to improving mental health services in line with MSF's objectives and strategies, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide psychological first aid and clinical consultations to individuals suffering from mental health issues related to conflict, trauma, or health crises.
• Support and supervise locally hired mental health professionals, ensuring they are equipped to provide effective care.
• Adapt and implement mental health tools and interventions to meet the cultural and contextual needs of the population served.
• Organize and facilitate psycho-pedagogical activities aimed at promoting mental well-being.
• Conduct training sessions for team members and local staff to enhance their skills in mental health care.
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to integrate mental health services into broader health programs.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of mental health interventions and suggest improvements.
• Maintain accurate records of patient consultations and interventions, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with ethical standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Full and current registration as a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker.
• A master’s degree in social work with clinical specialization for social workers.
• Minimum of two years of relevant post-qualification work experience in mental health.
• At least six months of clinical experience within the last two years.
• Professional experience in mental health issues related to HIV/AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual violence, or tuberculosis.
• Experience in individual and group counseling, as well as managing a multicultural team through supervision and training.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant degree in psychology, psychiatry, or social work, with a focus on clinical practice. A master’s degree is required for social workers, while psychologists and psychiatrists must have appropriate certifications and licenses to practice in their respective fields.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in mental health, with at least six months of clinical practice within the last two years. Experience in managing staff and working in multicultural environments is essential, as is familiarity with the challenges faced in humanitarian contexts such as armed conflicts and public health emergencies.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is mandatory, with a minimum level of B2 in both languages. Additional languages such as Spanish, Arabic, and Portuguese are considered advantageous but are not required for the position.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last between six to twelve months, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of working in complex humanitarian settings. MSF values diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The role may involve travel to various project sites, and candidates should be adaptable to changing circumstances in the field.