Clinical Psychologist Consultant, Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health at Aga Khan University (AKU)

Job Summary

• The PRECISE-Dyad study (Pregnancy Care Integrating Translational Science Everywhere) and other related studies are longitudinal studies addressing various pregnancy conditions and their longitudinal outcomes. The research staff regularly interact with study participants in a health care setting for data collection, mental health screening for mothers and neurodevelopment assessments for their children. 
• Research staff encounter various challenges related to their work including interaction with research participants as they undergo various medical and pregnancy complications and other socioeconomic challenges.
• Selected research participants may also require psychological support following screening positive for mental health screens or following adverse pregnancy outcomes. 
• The purpose of this consultancy is to provide psychological support to research staff and participants of the PRECISE (Pregnancy Care Integrating Translational Science Everywhere) study and other related studies.
• The consultant will be called upon by the study team on need basis and specific tasks / objectives provided periodically. Upon completion of each assigned task/ set of tasks, the consultant will provide a detailed written report of the completed tasks to the study PI and an invoice.
• Location for delivery of the task is Mariakani and Rabai Hospitals in Kilifi County. Services may be provided at the health facilities and also at community settings. 

Responsibilities
Support for Research Staff

• Provide a full range of psychological services to research staff who experience psychological distress; 
• Conduct regular group debrief sessions and psychological support to research staff;
• Provide individual and/or group counselling services to research staff;
• Provide ongoing education and training to the research team on mental health and wellbeing topics to enhance knowledge and skills in identifying, responding to, and preventing mental health challenges for at the workplace; and
• Make recommendations to the research team on any changes to the study activities to improve staff wellness.

Support for Study Participants

• Conduct psychological assessments of study participants referred following positive screening for mental health conditions or child medical or developmental problems;
• Conduct further assessment, diagnosis and intervention as needed, provide oral and written feedback to the study/clinical team as appropriate; and
• Provide psychological support to study participants who have experienced perinatal mortality, including but not limited to miscarriage, stillbirth and neonatal death.

Requirements

• Bachelors in Clinical Psychology or equivalent from a recognized university plus at least 2 years’ experience providing counselling services in any setting, OR 
• Diploma in Clinical Psychology or equivalent from a recognized institution plus at least 3 years’ experience providing counselling services in any setting;
• Registration with the relevant regulatory body;
• At least 1-year experience providing counselling services at a hospital / health facility setting;
• Strong written and oral communication skills; and
• Fluency in Swahili is essential.

Applications should be submitted latest by August 25, 2023