The MHPSS Specialist is responsible to implementation, coordination, and technical oversight of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) interventions across assigned project areas. With a focus on integrating MHPSS into primary health care and humanitarian response programs, the Specialist will train and mentor field teams, ensure adherence to global standards, and deliver high-quality MHPSS services to vulnerable populations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Program Implementation
Support the Health Advisor to design, implementation, and evaluation of MHPSS programs in line with global standards and WHO MH GAP guidelines.
Oversee the integration of MHPSS services with other sectors, including GBV, health, and nutrition, ensuring holistic support to affected populations.
Provide technical support for the development of culturally sensitive, community-based mental health interventions.
Support the creation of referral pathways for specialized mental health services in collaboration with local and international partners.
Frequent travel to the field site and provide regular follow and supervision.
Deliver training to front line healthcare workers on the identification and non-pharmacological management of priority mental health conditions, aligned with WHO mhGAP Intervention Guidelines, in collaboration with the project MHPSS coordinator (psychiatrist).
Involve trained staff and volunteers in ongoing mentoring and supervision through on-the-job engagement.
Collaborate with GBV and Nutrition staff to provide mental health and psychosocial support services as needed.
Training and Capacity Building
Train and mentor healthcare professionals, field teams, and community volunteers on PFA, MH GAP, and evidence-based psychosocial interventions.
Conduct on-the-job coaching and supervision to enhance the skills of MHPSS teams, with a focus on task-shifting approaches.
Develop and adapt training materials and manuals to address local needs while maintaining global standards.
Coordination and Advocacy
Actively represent MTI in MHPSS coordination meetings, health clusters, and technical working groups.
Advocate for the integration of MHPSS services in local health systems and broader humanitarian response plans.
Collaborate with government and non-governmental organizations to strengthen MHPSS networks and build partnerships.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
Develop monitoring tools to assess the impact of MHPSS interventions on beneficiaries.
Analyze program data to ensure effective decision-making and continuous improvement.
Prepare high-quality reports for internal and external stakeholders, including donors.
Job Requirements
EDUCATION, LICENSES, & CERTFICATION
Bachelor’s degree in Psychiatry Nursing or Master’s degree in Integrated Clinical and Community Mental Health.
Certification in WHO MH GAP, PFA, IPT-G, and PM+ is highly desirable.
EXPERIENCE
Over 8 years of progressive experience in MHPSS program management and implementation, including work in developmental and refuge settings in international non-governmental humanitarian organization
Proven expertise in training and supervising multidisciplinary teams on MHPSS interventions.
Extensive experience working in culturally diverse and resource-constrained environments
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Strong understanding of global MHPSS guidelines (IASC, WHO) and humanitarian principles.
Familiarity with Ethiopia’s healthcare system and national mental health policies.
Expertise in program design, implementation, and monitoring.
Proficient in training methodologies, data analysis, and report writing.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for cross-cultural teamwork.
Adaptable and resilient under pressure, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
Proven ability to foster collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including government and NGOs.
Knowledge of development & humanitarian issues and concepts
Fluent spoken and written Amharic and English.
SKILLS:
Humanitarian motivation
Emotionally and spiritually mature
Team player – practical, desire to support the field teams.
Willingness to pitch in and get the job done
Understanding and sensitivity to cross cultural issues
Flexible and adaptable to ever changing environments.
Ability to remain calm under pressure.
Able to build new relationships and gain people’s trust quickly
Integrity in representing Medical Teams Willing to travel to insecure environments
ABILITIES:
Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment
Ability to prioritize tasks
Ability to embrace and promote MTI’s mission and vision
Ability to uphold and exemplify the organization’s core values
Ability to represent the organization in a professional manner to donors, volunteers, and the public
How To Apply
Apply thorough THSI LINK
