Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Specialist (MHPSS) at Action Health Incorporated (AHI)

Project Summary

• The project seeks to improve access to quality, life-saving services and strengthen community resilience through a multi-pronged approach that integrates preventive and curative healthcare, nutritional support, and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and response in Project LGAs

Job Summary

• The MHPSS Specialist will be responsible for developing and implementing culturally appropriate MHPSS interventions, providing training and capacity building to community health workers and other frontline staff, and ensuring the ethical and safe delivery of MHPSS services. This position requires a strong understanding of mental health and psychosocial issues in humanitarian or development contexts, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a commitment to working collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Roles and Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical guidance and support to the project team and partners on all aspects of MHPSS.
• Develop and adapt MHPSS tools, protocols, and training materials to ensure relevance and cultural appropriateness.
• Stay abreast of current best practices and evidence-based interventions in the field of MHPSS.
• Coordinate the implementation of project activities, ensuring adherence to established protocols, guidelines, and best practices.
• Provide direct MHPSS services, including individual and group counseling, as needed.
• Develop and implement community-based MHPSS programs.
• Work closely with community health workers and other frontline staff to integrate MHPSS into their work.
• Coordinate with other project components to ensure the integration of MHPSS into all aspects of the project.
• Ensure all MHPSS activities are gender-sensitive and contribute to GBV prevention and response efforts.
• Develop and implement strategies to identify and support survivors of GBV.
• Train project staff and partners on GBV principles and best practices.

Required Languages:

• English and Hausa required; Fulani, Kanuri and/or other local languages are a plus.

Education and Experience:

• A Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field.   A Master’s degree is an added advantage.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in public health program management, preferably in humanitarian settings
• Strong understanding of mental health and psychosocial issues in vulnerable populations.
• Experience developing and implementing MHPSS programs.
• Experience providing training and capacity building.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience working with GBV survivors is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of relevant international standards and guidelines on MHPSS.

Skills / Abilities:

• Good relationship management skills and the ability to work closely with local partners, community members and government partners.
• General knowledge of local and state government practices.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Commitment to humanitarian principles and ethical conduct.
• Cross-cultural sensitivity and adaptability
• Versatile in use of MS Windows and MS Office packages (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).