Position:  MHPSS Counselor
Location:  Aden                         
Administrative supervisor:   Project Coordinator
Technical Supervisor:  N/A
Reference:   26-05 
Duration:  Till December 31, 2026, renewable based on fund availability & performance

ABOUT ADRA: The Adventist Development and Relief Agency is an independent, humanitarian agency established for the specific purpose of providing individual and community development and disaster relief.  ADRA Yemen pursue a mission of changing the world by uplifting one life at a time. ADRA International serves over 100 countries and is present in Yemen since 1995. Its programs are supported by various country-based and international donors. It has presence in different Governorates in Yemen responding to 6 areas of humanitarian sectors. ADRA Yemen is undertaking programs in Yemen in the fields of health, nutrition, WASH, food security, livelihoods, and protection.

Safeguarding:

ADRA Yemen organization is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults at risks and children in the targeted communities, as well as the welfare of all ADRA Yemen representatives. ADRA Yemen expects the post holder to adhere to and share this commitment.
All necessary measures for safer recruitment would be required including thorough background checks.

SUMMARY:

The primary role of the MHPSS Counselor will be to provide psychosocial support (PSS), Psychological first aid (PFA), counseling services, and psychotherapy sessions at the Targeted Community of women on a regular basis. The candidate will also provide awareness on different mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), including but not limited to psychological trauma, management, psychosocial well-being & coping, conflict resolution, healthy relationships, training, Children Friendly space communication skills, decision-making, substance abuse prevention, and GBV amongst others.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The “MHPSS Counselor” will be responsible, but not limited to:

Program Planning & Service Establishment

• Plan, organize, and maintain regular Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services within the project catchment areas in coordination with ADRA programs.
• Contribute to service mapping and ensure accessible, inclusive, and age-appropriate support for women, children, adolescents, and school students.
• Prepare weekly and monthly activity plans in line with project objectives and supervisor guidance.
• Apply appropriate questioning techniques, reflective listening, and participatory methods to identify beneficiaries’ needs, risks, and aspirations.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments using approved tools to determine required interventions and referral pathways.
• Plan and facilitate structured individual, family, and group PSS / life-skills sessions, ensuring each beneficiary receives adequate time and follow-up.
• Provide clinical consultations, initial assessments, basic diagnosis.
• Deliver Psychological First Aid (PFA) to individuals experiencing acute distress, including survivors of violence, abuse, loss, or displacement.
• Identify cases requiring specialized or advanced care and arrange safe referrals, including transportation support when needed.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case files and service records in line with organizational protocols.
• Prepare regular activity reports and share data with supervisors .
• Ensure data protection and informed consent procedures are followed at all times.
• Develop or adapt culturally appropriate IEC / awareness materials and key messages on mental health, wellbeing, and available services.
• Train and sensitize staff,  volunteers, teachers, and community members on MHPSS concepts and safe referrals.
• Support recruitment, capacity building, and supervision of Interns.
• Guide interns and Field Assistant in community screening, early identification of concerns, and referral of severe cases.
• Establish, supervise, and support safe and inclusive child-friendly spaces within project sites.
• Create a welcoming, structured, and protective environment free from physical punishment, bullying, or discrimination.
• Ensure safe access for children traveling to and from space, in coordination with caregivers and the community.
• Conduct daily attendance tracking and monitor participation trends.
• Undertake daily visual wellbeing checks and identify children with protection, health, nutrition, or psychological risks for referral.
• Ensure children have regular breaks, access to drinking water, and sanitation facilities.
• Maintain an inventory of toys, learning, and recreational materials, ensuring proper use and secure storage.
• Promote positive behavior and model non-violent communication and conflict resolution.
• Liaise closely with case management actors and service providers to refer children and adults with protection risks.
• Coordinate health facilities, psychiatrists, education actors, and other sectors to ensure holistic care.
• Work collaboratively with project staff and partners to align interventions and avoid duplication.
• Actively participate in supervision, case discussions, and technical review meetings.
• Provide input to improve quality, accountability, and beneficiary satisfaction.
• Maintain confidentiality, dignity, and respect for all beneficiaries.
• Support feedback and complaint mechanisms and encourage safe community participation.
• Communicate regularly with parents, caregivers, and community representatives regarding activities, expectations, and emerging concerns.
• Encourage family involvement in supporting children’s psychosocial wellbeing.
• Perform any additional duties assigned by the direct supervisor that support project objectives.
• Adhere to the organization’s safeguarding framework, including Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), child protection, anti-harassment, and ethical conduct policies, ensuring alignment with international standards (e.g., Core Humanitarian Standard, UN CRC).
• Promptly report safeguarding concerns or violations through designated channels, maintain confidentiality, and participate in mandatory safeguarding training to uphold a safe, inclusive environment for all stakeholders.
• Perform other duties as assigned by direct supervisor. 

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent educational background, preferably in Psychology, clinical Psychology, Mental health, social work, Counseling, Nursing –with experience/post basic training in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support. 
• Minimum 2 years of previous experience in MHPSS, including PFA (Psychological First Aid), PSS (Psychosocial Support), and women empowerment area .
• Experience with working with community health workers, community mobilization an added advantage 
• Ability to have equal gender balance; Flexibility based on cultural fit.
• Ability to collaborate closely with community mediators, women's groups, or village elders to understand the situation and causes.
• Positive attitude and experience working with children.
• Sensitivity to cultural norms and role expectations
• The ability to relate to children and young adults
• Ability to cope with emotional situations
• Excellent listening
• Observational skills
• Verbal communication skills
• Empathy and rapport
• Excellent English and Arabic Languages (Writing and speaking) are required.
• Proficiency in MS Office (MS Excel and MS PowerPoint, in particular).
• Reporting Skills are Required
• Have an experience with ADRA is preferable and add value. 

ADRA’S VALUES:

We uphold the Humanitarian Principles; our key values: 

• Connected    
• Courageous
• Compassionate