MHPSS Counselor Assistant

The Syria crisis is often described as the worst humanitarian catastrophe since the end of the Cold War. Today, 13.4 million people in Syria - more than half of the country's population - are in need of humanitarian assistance with needs increasingly being exacerbated by economic decline. Of these, 6.8 million are refugees and asylum-seekers who have fled the country. This is no short-term humanitarian episode. The devastating human consequences to huge numbers of people will endure for decades. The destruction of relationships, communities, livelihoods, homes and infrastructure will take years to repair.

IRC is offering a robust humanitarian response to the Syria crisis a rapidly expanding portfolio, supported by more than 1000+ staff in Syria Country Program. IRC is undertaking programs in Syria and the neighboring countries of Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon and Jordan in the fields of health, child protection, early childhood development, education, women’s protection and empowerment, non-food items and food distribution, cash assistance, water and sanitation, protection and rule of law, and livelihood programming. Our work in these challenging settings gives rise to some of the most pressing issues facing contemporary humanitarian action, including questions of access, security, funding and coordination.

Job Overview/Summary:

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the MHPSS Officer, the counselor supports the MHPSS team in their work with the People of all genders and communities. MHPSS counselor assistant will enhance the individual and collective wellbeing and ensure that vulnerable people of all genders, including children and adults are safeguarded from harm. This position is based in Deir ez-Zur, NE Syria and covering informal camps in Deir ez-Zur.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct   mental health assessments of People of all genders in catchment areas, covered by Medical Mobile Unit in DEZ countryside, or referred by other agencies, develop care plans, deliver psychological intervention, and follow ups, in close cooperation with GP s and Psychiatrist
• Conduct group psychoeducation sessions for People of all genders to raise awareness about Mental Health aspects and symptoms of Mental Health disorders 
• Offering information, support and advocacy to People of all genders, including escorting them if necessary to relevant services.
• Work with the referring case manager/ social worker from Protection to streamline service provision and follow-up, including referrals to other PSS activities
• Develop services mapping for targeted area and update it regularly
• Participating in multidisciplinary teams, case conferences, working groups, and related workshops and trainings when required; also, bi-weekly supervision and team meetings.
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor to enable and develop IRC programs.