MHPSS Psychologist at Action Health Incorporated (AHI)

Position Summary:

The overall purpose of the job is to provide technical support in mental health and psychosocial support activities, supporting training programmes for the PSS Counselors, provision of quality assurance supervision, recording learning and coming up with adaptable intervention approaches to support effective implementation of the project goals and objectives.

The Psychologist will be working across 3 LGAs- Fune, Gujba and Geidam LGAs in Yobe State

Main responsibilities: 

•  Providing psychological support and psychotherapy sessions (individual, family, group) to beneficiaries in need according to MHGAP and other standards protocols in order to improve their psycho-social and mental health conditions
•  Document progress on cases, maintaining strict protocols for confidentiality and consent, and ensure that data protection protocols are respected
•  Assisting and training staff members (Case Workers and PSS Counselors) and resourceful people whenever necessary in order to enhance the scope of MHPSS activities. Facilitate trainings for internal staffs and communities on psychosocial first aid (PFA)
•  Strengthen community based psychosocial support and peer support group activities standard protocols and procedures set in order to provide the most appropriate management.
•  Provide coaching and technical support to the field staff in the implementation of structured MHPSS activities for beneficiaries
•  Carry out all tasks respecting key protection principles, including but not limited to: do no harm, non-discrimination, confidentiality, accountability and need-to-know principles
•  Participate in collecting the beneficiaries data and liaise with Project M&E Officer for the accurate recording of the activities and according to the internal guidelines
•  Proactively participate in relevant coordination meetings, as requested by the Project Officer
•  Submit Weekly, monthly, quarterly reports to the project officer

Note: This job description is not exhaustive and the Officer may be asked from time to time to perform duties over and above those described here. The Officer is also expected to work with  survivors of GBV including persons at risk

Experience and Skills

•  Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in Social Work, Mental Health, Psychology or related fields
•  Minimum of 2-4 years of specialized experience in community-based psychosocial support interventions particularly as it relates to social norms change.
•  Experience working in humanitarian sector is an asset – specifically in MHPSS programs
•  Familiarity with IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Setting.
•  Strong communication and facilitation skills
•  Perfect knowledge of MS Office packages, especially Excel & Word
•  Good knowledge of counselling and community mobilization methods and tools
•  Good spoken and written English
•  Good spoken and written Hausa, with at least one other local language: Kanuri and Marghi, Shuwa, Fulani,
•  Be committed to AHI’s values as an organization

Behavioral Skills:

•  Strong interpersonal skills, and teamwork.
•  Strong communication skills
•  Ability to work on own initiative and adaptable to changing needs and situations
•  Flexible, patient and adaptable to a changing environment.
•  Ability to work under pressure with numerous deadlines, etc.