Counselling Psychologist Volunteers at HIAS Refugee Trust of Kenya

Duration: 6 Months

Reporting to: Counselling Psychologist-Head of Field Office

Vacancy Description:

HIAS seeks to recruit volunteers for the position above who will assist in the provision of counseling and other psychotherapeutic interventions to vulnerable and at risk refugee clients, including those who have undergone emotional and psychological distress as well as those with mental health challenges impairing their normal functioning. HIAS operates field offices in Kayole and Eastleigh, with operations in Kawangware where the appointees will be placed depending on the need.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide individual and group counseling services and other short term therapeutic services to refugees referred to the field office and keep continuous counseling notes
• Conduct psychological assessments and Mental Status Examinations and prepare and submit the reports to the Counselling Psychologist
• Assist in referring clients for provision of social assistance and financial assistance for food, transport, clothes and other material assistance
• Assist protection officers in organizing and mobilizing for committee meetings, dialogues and other activities.
• Ensure efficient case management, documentation and filing at field level
• Assist in the follow up and monitoring of all referral cases and ensure timely turnaround of assessment reports and other interventions.
• Assist in preparation of timely, quality and comprehensive reports for official work done
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• A Degree in Counseling Psychology from a recognized university
• Have at least one year of training experience Skills and Competencies
• Experience in trauma counselling
• Ideal candidate should have a keen awareness and a good knowledge of psychosocial issues and the complexities of working on these issues
• Strong analytical and report writing skills and proven ability to conduct psychological assessments
• Good team player with excellent cross-cultural interpersonal skills
• Proactive and able to work under minimal supervision while exercising diplomacy, flexibility and assertiveness
• Ability to confront and discuss sensitive issues with respect and able to uphold high standards of confidentiality
• Knowledge of Computer Applications such as MS-ACCESS, MS-EXCEL and MS WORD
• Experience working with children and child therapy, with good knowledge of child rights and protection is an added advantage
• Knowledge of refugee protection and assistance will be an added advantage