The Organization of Human Welfare (OHW) is a non-governmental organization and is non-political, not-for-profit, and impartial organization with no bias towards a particular religion, ethnicity, or political belief. It has its own independent legal status and entity. OHW is operating since 2007 in the country with active membership with the national clusters and international donor agencies in Afghanistan including SWABAC, ACBAR, AICS, BAAG, AWN and most of the national and international Clusters operates based in Afghanistan.

The MHPSS Counsellor will play a critical role in providing mental health and psychosocial support to children and families affected by the child protection project in Balkh Province, Afghanistan. Working under the supervision of the Project Manager, the MHPSS Counsellor will be responsible for delivering culturally sensitive and trauma-informed counselling services to promote the well-being and resilience of beneficiaries.

Responsibilities:

1. Provide individual and group counselling sessions to children and families affected by the child protection project, using evidence-based and culturally appropriate approaches.
2. Conduct comprehensive assessments of beneficiaries' mental health and psychosocial needs, and develop personalized care plans to address their specific concerns.
3. Implement therapeutic interventions and techniques to support beneficiaries in coping with trauma, grief, loss, and other psychosocial challenges.
4. Facilitate psychoeducation sessions for children and families, promoting awareness and understanding of mental health and psychosocial well-being.
5. Collaborate with other project staff and partners to ensure a coordinated and integrated approach to service delivery, including referrals to specialized services when needed.
6. Maintain accurate and confidential records of counselling sessions, progress notes, and other relevant documentation in accordance with OHW's guidelines.
7. Participate in regular supervision and case conferences to enhance professional development and ensure quality service provision.
8. Contribute to monitoring and evaluation efforts by collecting data, documenting outcomes, and providing feedback on the impact of counselling interventions.
9. Stay updated on the latest research, best practices, and ethical standards in the field of mental health and psychosocial support, and apply this knowledge to enhance service delivery.
10. Adhere to OHW's code of conduct, child safeguarding policies, and other relevant guidelines throughout all counselling activities.

1. Bachelor's or master's degree in psychology, counselling, social work, or a related field. A relevant professional certification is preferred.
2. Proven experience in providing counselling services, preferably in the field of child protection or mental health.
3. Strong knowledge of mental health and psychosocial support principles, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
4. Familiarity with the cultural context and dynamics of Balkh Province is highly desirable.
5. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to establish rapport and build trust with beneficiaries of diverse backgrounds.
6. Ability to work effectively in a team, as well as independently, with a high level of empathy, sensitivity, and professionalism.
7. Fluency in English, Pashto and Dari is required, both written and spoken.

Interested and qualified candidates should send their cover letters with updated CVs to OHW’s HR department – Vacancies@ohw.org.af

Applications should be received by OHW’s HR department on 28 Oct 2024 before 4:00 PM. And clearly, indicate the vacancy number and job title (MHPSS Counsellor /615) in their email subject line. Otherwise, their applications will not be considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a test/interview.