MHPSS Associate (Child Psychology) Job at IOM in Qatar

The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a leading organization in the field of migration and humanitarian assistance, is accepting applications for the position of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) Associate specialized in Child Psychology within its operations in the State of Qatar. This role presents a unique opportunity for dedicated professionals to contribute to improving the mental health and psychosocial well-being of affected children and families within migrant and host communities.

Job Description and Key Responsibilities

The Child Psychology Associate will be integrated into IOM's MHPSS team. The focus will be on providing specialized support to children and adolescents who may be experiencing psychological distress related to migration, displacement, or challenging circumstances. The core responsibilities of this position include:

• Direct Psychological Support: Providing psychological first aid and conducting basic mental health assessments for children and adolescents, using age-appropriate and culturally sensitive methodologies and tools.
• Activity Planning and Implementation: Assisting in the design and implementation of group-based psychosocial support activities for children, such as therapeutic play sessions, expressive arts, and resilience-building activities.
• Case Management: Identifying children in need of specialized psychological care and referring them to relevant psychologists or psychiatrists within the service network, while following up on their progress in coordination with the team.
• Caregiver Support: Providing basic guidance and support to parents and caregivers on how to support their children's mental health and address stress-related behaviors.
• Coordination and Field Work: Working closely with Protection teams and other humanitarian service units within IOM to ensure an integrated approach. The role may require travel to various sites or community centers.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintaining confidential and accurate records of sessions and assessments, and preparing regular activity and outcome reports for the line manager.

Qualifications and Core Requirements

To be eligible for this opportunity, you must meet the following criteria:

• Educational Qualification: A university degree (Bachelor's) in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or any other relevant mental health field. An advanced degree or specialized training in child and adolescent mental health will be a distinct advantage.
• Work Experience: Proven practical experience of at least 2 to 3 years in providing psychological support or psychosocial services to children, preferably in humanitarian contexts or with migrant/displaced communities.
• Knowledge and Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of MHPSS principles, particularly those related to child development stages.
  • Understanding of the impact of trauma and stress on children's mental health.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children, adolescents, and their families.
  • Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team.
  • Flexibility and capacity to work in a dynamic and sometimes pressured environment.
  • Proficiency in English (both written and spoken) is essential. Knowledge of Arabic is a significant asset for communicating with beneficiaries and the local community.
• Values: A strong commitment to humanitarian principles, confidentiality, respect, and non-discrimination.

Work Environment and Benefits

Staff at IOM work in a professional international environment focused on creating positive impact. While specific benefit package details are formally announced upon application, working with IOM in Qatar typically offers:

• An opportunity to work in a meaningful field and contribute directly to the lives of vulnerable populations.
• A dynamic and multicultural work environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in the humanitarian sector.

How to Apply for the Position

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should apply through the official channel of the International Organization for Migration. It is advisable to search for the specific vacancy announcement with its reference number (if available) on IOM's official Human Resources portal or on authorized job boards.

Practical Tip: Prepare an updated, achievement-oriented CV, highlighting direct experience working with children in the mental health field. Your cover letter should be tailored to this specific role, explaining your motivation for working in the humanitarian sector and with IOM in particular.

Applications should be submitted in English. Please note that the selection process may involve interviews and reference checks. The International Organization for Migration is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.