Background

Ansari Rehabilitation Association for Afghanistan (ARAA) is a national, non-governmental, not-for-profit organization, established in 1992 for serving the people of Afghanistan through its operation in sectors of Health, Protection, agriculture/irrigation, water and sanitation, education, reintegration, social services, and construction, as well it has been established to provide humanitarian supports, based on the principles of human rights, Islamic and cultural values of our country, and environmental and socio-economic sustainability to the vulnerable people of Afghanistan.

In continuation of its 2025 program operational plan, ARAA is seeking for a qualified person to apply for this position.

Job Description/Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Country Programme Manager and Protection Officer, the PSS Counsellor shall:

• Provide individual and group counseling to vulnerable populations, including IDPs, returnees, and host communities.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments to identify needs and develop tailored support plans.
• Implement culturally appropriate interventions to address trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges.
• Facilitate community-based psychosocial activities to promote emotional well-being and social cohesion.
• Organize awareness sessions on mental health, coping mechanisms, and available services.
• Train and supervise Communities to identify persons in need of PSS and refer them appropriately.
• Build the capacity of local stakeholders to address mental health issues effectively.
• Maintain a referral pathway for cases requiring advanced mental health services.
• Collaborate with medical teams, legal aid providers, and other relevant actors to ensure holistic support for beneficiaries.
• Document all PSS activities accurately while maintaining strict confidentiality.
• Preparation of weekly, monthly, mid-year, annual, and ad-hoc reports to reporting officer/protection officer.
• Provide regular reports on PSS interventions, challenges, and achievements to the Protection Officer.
• Ensure all interventions are in line with UNHCR and international MHPSS (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support) standards.
• Promote a survivor-centered and rights-based approach in all PSS activities.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
• At least 2-3 years of experience in providing psychosocial support services, preferably in humanitarian or conflict-affected settings.
• Previous experience working with IDPs, returnees, or vulnerable communities is an asset.
• Strong understanding of MHPSS principles, trauma-informed care, and community-based approaches.
• Proficiency in psychosocial assessment tools and counseling techniques.
• Familiarity with the socio-cultural context of Afghanistan, particularly the Western Region.
• Fluent in Dari and Pashto. Proficiency in English is highly desirable.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach.
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Resilience and flexibility to operate in challenging environments.
• Willingness to travel to remote areas within Herat, Farah, and Badghis provinces.
• Commitment to ARAA and UNHCR’s humanitarian principles, including confidentiality and respect for beneficiaries.

Submission Guideline

• Please submit your CV and cover letter to hr@hrt.araa.org.af and clearly write the vacancy number, job title and duty station in the subject line. Correspondents without a subject line will not be entertained and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Please also note that:
• Only shortlisted applicants will be asked for an interview.
• ARAA retains the full right to cancel or amend this announcement and associated actions.
• In case you did not hear from our side latest after two weeks, it means that your application is not considered for the position.
• Failure to provide the required documentation or submission beyond the closing date will result of applicant rejection from further consideration.