Staff Counsellor
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN-related agency established in 1951, promotes humane and orderly migration. In response to the 2026 Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, IOM is actively involved in health screenings and community engagement. This role supports IOM personnel facing high stress and fatigue due to challenging working conditions.
Job Purpose
The Staff Counsellor for the Democratic Republic of Congo will provide crucial psychological and counselling support to IOM personnel operating on the front lines of the Ebola response. This role is vital for mitigating the significant stress and fatigue experienced by staff working long hours under difficult conditions. The Counsellor will conduct psychosocial risk assessments, develop emergency response plans, and offer direct support and training to enhance staff well-being and resilience. By providing these services, the role directly contributes to maintaining the operational capacity and mental health of IOM staff during this critical public health emergency, ensuring they can continue their vital work effectively and safely.
Responsibilities
Provide direct psychological and counselling support to staff involved in the Ebola response. Conduct workplace psychosocial risk assessments and offer recommendations for improving the implementation of mental health strategies. Develop and execute a psychosocial emergency response plan for the mission. Coordinate staff welfare responses to emergencies and critical incidents, ensuring security plans incorporate psychosocial needs. Develop and deliver training on stress management, emotional processing, critical incident management, and general well-being, with targeted sessions for managers. Offer pre-deployment preparation, in-mission support, and post-deployment check-ins. Produce and disseminate psycho-educational materials. Consult with managers on specific needs and explore avenues for enhancing staff well-being. Collaborate with UN and INGO counterparts. Identify and liaise with local mental health resources for referrals. Maintain professional standards, collect data, and report on services provided. Participate in staff welfare meetings and relevant UN working groups.
Work Experience
A minimum of four years of relevant counseling experience post-licensure/certification is required. Experience within international or humanitarian organizations, particularly in emergency settings, is preferred. Familiarity with counselling and psychosocial interventions, and experience working with UN Agencies, International Humanitarian Organizations, or Employee Assistance Programmes is essential.
Skills
Excellent communication and writing skills. In-depth knowledge of migration-related subject areas. Familiarity with diversity and its implementation. Knowledge of modern technologies, including teleservices. Readiness to travel and work in emergency contexts. Fluency in French and English is required.