Staff Counsellor

Organizational Context

UNAMA was established in 2002 as a Political/Peacebuilding Mission, directed and supported by the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). Operating in Afghanistan, UNAMA provides critical support to the country's peace and stability efforts. The mission's context involves addressing complex challenges, and staff counselling services are vital for personnel to manage stress, crises, and maintain well-being in a demanding environment.

Job Purpose

The Staff Counsellor's primary purpose is to provide essential counselling services to UN personnel within the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). This role is crucial for helping staff cope with various challenges, including critical incident stress, work-related concerns, and personal issues. The counsellor will support personnel in managing stress, depression, anxiety, anger, and substance problems, while also assisting with work-life balance, decision-making, adapting to new circumstances, and resolving interpersonal conflicts. By offering confidential support and guidance, the assignment aims to enhance the overall well-being and resilience of UNAMA personnel, ensuring they can effectively contribute to the mission's objectives and maintain productivity in a complex operational environment. This includes fostering better relationships and developing coping mechanisms for diverse situations.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Chief, Medical Staff Counselling and Welfare Section, the National UN Volunteer will assess the psychosocial needs of all UN personnel, including international and national staff, UN Volunteers, and contractors, especially in emergency situations, providing recommendations as needed. Key duties involve delivering confidential individual and/or group counselling for critical incident stress, work-related, and personal concerns, and facilitating appropriate referrals to medical, security, HR, or other relevant services. The counsellor will serve as a primary resource for psychological support, conducting clinical follow-up and monitoring client progress. Furthermore, the role includes developing and disseminating psychoeducational materials, e-bulletins, and awareness resources. The incumbent will prepare reports, maintain accurate records and statistical data, and ensure counselling services are accessible, including through travel to field offices across Afghanistan. Collaboration with Medical, Security, HR, and Administration sections is essential for supportive interventions and staff well-being initiatives. The Staff Counsellor will also build relationships with stakeholders, support the implementation of well-being programs (e.g., healthy living, mindfulness, resilience-building), and promote peer support mechanisms through training. Additional responsibilities include compiling and developing training materials on mental health, stress management, and well-being, facilitating workshops, monitoring program implementation, and maintaining confidential records in line with ethical standards and UN policies.

Work Experience

A minimum of three years of progressive experience in clinical psychology, psychiatry (post-Master's degree, or for Medical Doctors, four years of validated residency or specialization certificate), or mental health care is required. Essential experience includes providing crisis or emergency psychosocial support in high-risk or humanitarian settings. Desirable experience involves working with or supporting humanitarian organizations (INGOs, UN agencies) under security coordination frameworks like Saving Lives Together (SLT). Experience in a multicultural environment is considered an asset.

Skills

Required competencies include Professionalism, Integrity, Teamwork and Respect for Diversity, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Planning and Organizing, Communication, Flexibility, and Adaptability. Key areas of expertise encompass Health, Communication, and Crisis and Emergency Response. The role demands strong interpersonal skills for confidential counselling, effective collaboration with various sections, and the ability to develop and deliver psychoeducational content and training.

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