Mental Health Specialist

Job Description

Requisition ID: req37813

Job Title: Mental Health Specialist

Sector: Social Work

Employment Category: Fixed Term

Employment Type: Part-Time

Open to Expatriates: No

Location: Salt Lake City, UT USA

Job Description

IRC Background:

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is at work in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. IRC reaches over 50,000 clients annually across the US through programs for resettled refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, survivors of torture and trafficking, and individuals from local communities welcoming newcomers.

Scope of work:

The Mental Health Program Specialist is responsible for building resilience of people forcibly displaced from Afghanistan. This position will be engaging with individuals and families from the Afghan community who are experiencing adjustment difficulties to offer encouragement, practical assistance, guidance, and emotional support. The role will include conducting client-centered needs assessments and skill-building workshops to enhance problem solving and promote positive interactions. Depending on community need, the Mental Health Program Specialist may also run psychosocial support groups, provide educational workshops, and develop community activities that foster healthy connections.
Essential Responsibilities:
Promote mental health and psychosocial support within affected communities
Meet with individuals and families in the community to conduct needs assessments, psychosocial support groups, and RHS-15 Screenings
Input data into excel sheets and software services for needs assessments and RHS-15 screenings
Prepare an appropriate plan of action with clearly identified goals and activities
Under supervision, engage in evidenced based psychoeducation and skill building activities
Document activities through case notes and data entry
Collaborate with supervisor to provide crisis assessment
Assist with evaluation of current program services and explore ways to introduce new service opportunities
Attend IRC trainings and conference calls addressing mental health program development and other refugee mental health and psychosocial support related topics
Other duties, as required

Key Working Relationships:
Position Reports to: Mental Health Program Coordinator
Position directly supervises: N/A
Other Internal and/or external contacts: HQ Mental Health Technical Adviser, Evidence-based intervention trainers, Mental Health providers
Job Requirements:

degree preferred, ideally in the field of mental health or social services (relevant workexperience can be a substitute for an undergraduate degree)
Fluency in English and either Dari, Pashto, or another frequently spoken client language preferred
Prior experience working with refugees and/or community organizing, preferably with disadvantaged communities and related to health or mental health
Trust and rapport with the Afghan or refugee community
Familiarity with issues facing refugee and immigrant communities as they relate to trauma, adjustment, and mental health
Ability to assess needs, prioritize and develop action plans
Ability to advocate and liaise with health and social service systems
Excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to multi-task, prioritize duties and manage time effectivelyStrong communication skills (written and verbal)
Ability to work independently and as a team member in a fast-paced, cross-cultural environment
Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively across lines of difference with respect to race, gender, ethnicity, language, religion and age
Ability to follow strict guidelines of client confidentiality and safeguarding
Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with data-tracking systems
Valid driver’s license, access to reliable vehicle with current insurance
Working Environment:
Standard, professional office environment combined with community-based work. At times this position may also be remote depending on the COVID-19 context.
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement: In accordance with IRC’s duty to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards and our commitment to safeguard the health of our employees, clients, and communities, IRC requires candidates who are selected for interview to furnish proof of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to be considered for this position.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusivity: IRC is committed to building a diverse organization and a climate of inclusivity. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who can demonstrate that they can contribute to this goal.
Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. The IRC and IRC employees must adhere to the values and principles outlined in IRC Way – Standards for Professional Conduct. These are Integrity, Service, and Accountability. In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Anti Workplace Harassment, Fiscal Integrity, and Anti-Retaliation.