Brief description of the organization

Yazda Iraq is a local organization registered in both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It operates as a subsidiary of the global Yazda organization and adheres to the same mission: supporting vulnerable communities, particularly those affected by genocide and mass atrocities. In Iraq/KRI, Yazda implements programs focused on advocacy, legal assistance, humanitarian aid, and community and survivor empowerment initiatives. The Country Director leads these efforts, ensuring they align with organizational goals and respond effectively to local needs.

Background

Yazda’s Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) provides integrated primary health care and mental health services across 14 underserved villages in Sinuni, Sinjar. The program targets Yazidi returnees, IDPs, and vulnerable groups who lack access to functioning public health facilities. This position will strengthen Yazda’s mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) services in a post-conflict context where needs remain acute.

Job Purpose

The Mental Health Counsellor will provide psychosocial support and counseling services to individuals, families, and groups. The role focuses on mild-to-moderate mental health conditions, including trauma-related stress, depression, and anxiety. The counsellor will also support community psychoeducation, stigma reduction, and integration of MHPSS into primary healthcare services delivered by the MMU

Main Responsibilities

• Conduct mental health assessments and identify patient needs.
• Deliver structured counseling sessions (individual, family, and group) based on WHO PM+ and Yazda’s protocols.
• Provide psychoeducation sessions for patients and communities to reduce stigma and increase awareness.
• Support identification, safe referral, and follow-up of patients in coordination with MMU medical staff.
• Collect and maintain accurate patient data for monitoring, reporting, and evaluation.
• Contribute to awareness-raising activities and advocacy for mental health within Sinjar.
• Collaborate with the Psychologist and MH Doctor for supervision and treatment planning.
• Train and mentor MMU staff in basic psychosocial skills when needed.
• Participate in monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEAL) activities.
• Ensure confidentiality, safeguarding, and respect for patient dignity in all activities.

• Degree in psychology, social work, or related discipline.
• Minimum 2 years’ professional experience in counseling or psychosocial support.
• Training in WHO PM+ is essential; training in WHO mhGAP desirable.
• Prior NGO/humanitarian experience in Iraq is preferred.
• Strong communication skills in Arabic and Kurdish (Kurmanji); English is an advantage.
• Computer literacy (MS Office).
• Ability to work independently and in challenging field conditions.
• Commitment to Yazda’s mission, humanitarian principles, and non-discrimination