PSS Counsellor

Ansari Rehabilitation Association for Afghanistan (ARAA) is a national, non-governmental, not-for-profit organization, established in 1992 for serving the people of Afghanistan through its operation in sectors of Health, Protection, agriculture/irrigation, water and sanitation, education, reintegration, social services, and construction, as well it has been established to provide humanitarian supports, based on the principles of human rights, Islamic and cultural values of our country, and environmental and socio-economic sustainability to the vulnerable people of Afghanistan.

In continuation of its 2026 program operational plan, ARAA is seeking for a qualified person to apply for this position.

Under the direct supervision of the Project supervisor and project technical supervisor, the PSS Counsellor shall:

1. Provide individual and group counselling to vulnerable populations, including IDPs, returnees, and host communities.
2. Conduct psychosocial assessments to identify needs and develop tailored support plans.
3. Implement culturally appropriate interventions to address trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges.
4. Facilitate community-based psychosocial activities to promote emotional well-being and social cohesion.
5. Organize awareness sessions on mental health, coping mechanisms, and available services.
6. Train and support community members to identify persons in need of PSS and refer them appropriately.
7. Build the capacity of local stakeholders to address mental health issues effectively.
8. Maintain referral pathways for cases requiring advanced mental health services.
9. Collaborate with medical teams, legal aid providers, and other relevant actors to ensure holistic support for beneficiaries.
10. Document all PSS activities accurately while maintaining strict confidentiality.
11. Prepare weekly, monthly, mid-year, annual, and ad-hoc reports for the Reporting Officer / Project Supervisor.
12. Provide regular updates on PSS interventions, challenges, and achievements to the Project Supervisor.
13. Ensure all interventions comply with UNHCR and international MHPSS standards.
14. Promote a survivor-centred and rights-based approach in all PSS activities.
15. Document and enter all data into KOBO forms and the MHPSS dashboard.
16. Attend relevant meetings, including the Health Cluster and the MHPSS Working Group.
17. Implement case management using the KOBO-based MHPSS case management platform and relevant tools to ensure standardized and effective service delivery.
18. Travel and provide coverage in Farah (Bala Buluk, Farah Rod, Khak-e-Safed, and Farah City) and Kabul (Kabul City, Qarabagh, Bagrami, Musahi, Paghman, and Deh Sabz).

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
• At least 2-3 years of experience in providing psychosocial support services, preferably in humanitarian or conflict-affected settings.
• Previous experience working with IDPs, returnees, or vulnerable communities is an asset.
• Strong understanding of MHPSS principles, trauma-informed care, and community-based approaches.
• Proficiency in psychosocial assessment tools and counseling techniques.
• Familiarity with the socio-cultural context of Afghanistan, particularly the project locations.
• Fluent in Dari and Pashto. Proficiency in English is highly desirable.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach.
• Ability to work in a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Resilience and flexibility to operate in challenging environments.
• Commitment to ARAA and humanitarian principles, including confidentiality and respect for beneficiaries.
• ARAA is fully committed to the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH). We maintain a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment. All staff, consultants, and partners are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and to adhere to ARAA’s PSEAH policies and safeguarding principles.

• Please submit your CV and cover letter to hr@hrt.araa.org.af and clearly write the vacancy number, job title and duty station in the subject line. Correspondents without a subject line will not be entertained and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Please also note that:
• Only shortlisted applicants will be asked for an interview.
• ARAA retains the full right to cancel or amend this announcement and associated actions.
• In case you did not hear from our side latest after two weeks, it means that your application is not considered for the position.
• Failure to provide the required documentation or submission beyond the closing date will result of applicant rejection from further consideration.