MHPSS Support Consultant

We are seeking an MHPSS expert whose primary focus is adult primary and secondary trauma, with preference for those with experience in conflict zones. The consultant will attend our human rights training week with Syrian participants, joining some training sessions as an observer and to get to know participants, and working/being available from 5-10 PM each day (for 4 days) for participants to obtain MHPSS support and emergency referral/intervention if needed.

Roles and responsibilities:

1. Brief intervention counseling, identification of suicide or self harm risk, emergency referral protocols, case management, and mental health referrals. No medication will be prescribed by the consultant and no follow-up counseling will occur after the training week is complete.
2. The consultancy includes 4 days on-site in Turkey and dates are non-negotiable: Arrive October 21, working October 22-25, departing October 26.
3. Join training sessions for 2 hours/day (sessions to be determined by Synergy ED) and be available daily from 5-10pm to meet with volunteer participants who request sessions. Consultant will introduce themself and the service we are providing throughout the week.
4. Organize 30-minute appointment slots (with follow-up as necessary during the week) with participants who would like to join. Consultant will organize voluntary sign-up for afternoon/evening appointments, which will occur in hotel space. A private room may not be available, but the hotel will have extensive semi-private seating.
5. All clients seen will be risk-assessed and evaluated for immediate needs by the consultant, and appropriate referrals will be made when requested of the consultant.
6. The consultant will keep brief therapy notes including client name, contact information, therapy approach, and follow up needed. This data will be confidential and only forwarded and discussed with Synergy ED and PM if there is a risk of harm to the client or others in Synergy, LDHR or the community.
7. Language used will be Arabic, without an interpreter.
8. Consultant will develop a draft client informed consent to be reviewed by Synergy. When approved this form will be completed by the Consultant and all clients and maintained with the above records.
9. Clothing onsite will be appropriate given the culture and religion of our participants.
10. This is a 7-day consultancy: (4 onsite working, 1 travel, and 1 prep and follow-up). All travel, visa, accommodation, and necessary covid testing will be covered by Synergy for Justice.

Qualifications:

1. Psychologist or psychiatric social worker skilled in >5 years in direct mental health care of adults.
2. Preference for experience in conflict zones.
3. Skilled in trauma informed care, brief interventions and accessible rapid referrals.
4. Working knowledge and familiarity with the Middle East region.
5. Arabic fluency is required.
6. Able to set boundaries and refer for follow-up care as necessary.