Call for Proposal - Psychologist (Mental Health Professional)

1. Brief Summary of the Action

The overall objective of the Action is to promote safe, inclusive, and rights-respecting digital spaces and enable a free and independent media environment in Lebanon, thereby contributing to the full realization of freedom of expression and human rights.

• Aligning digital transformation in Lebanon with international human rights standards.
• Enhancing media literacy among duty-bearers and the public to navigate emerging technologies.
• Providing protection and psychosocial support services to at-risk Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) and media professionals to strengthen their resilience and capacity to continue their work.

2. Purpose of the Assignment

The Psychologist will provide family and community support as well as focused, non-specialized MHPSS (Levels 2 and 3 of the IASC MHPSS Pyramid) tailored to HRDs’ needs. Tasks include:

• Group-based support sessions
• Individual counselling
• Resilience-building workshops
• Protection case management (as needed)
• Peer support facilitation

3. Key Responsibilities

A. Group Psychosocial Support (Activity 1)

• Deliver group PSS using a scalable, evidence-based MHPSS curriculum (to be proposed by URDA) for 15 groups (15–20 participants each).
• Document sessions in line with curriculum standards and URDA’s data protection protocols.
• Apply trauma-informed, rights-based, and participatory approaches for journalists and media workers.
• Foster peer-sharing dynamics.
• Conduct M&E to evaluate changes in well-being and participant satisfaction.

B. Individual Counselling (Activity 2.1)

• Deliver 125 individual sessions (average 5 per HRD, subject to need) using a URDA-proposed MHPSS curriculum.
• Monitor client progress and measure improvements in well-being or reduction in distress.
• Refer clients needing specialized mental health care using updated referral pathways.
• Uphold confidentiality, safety, and ethical standards.
• Ensure complete case documentation as per URDA data protocols.

C. Protection Case Management (Activity 2.2)

• Provide Protection Case Management as per inter-agency standards.
• Maintain confidential records and data security.
• Conduct inter-sectoral referrals as needed.
• Participate in case conferences, if required.
• Update and manage the Protection Case Management database.

D. Coordination and Reporting

• Support curriculum contextualization and validation with the MHPSS team.
• Keep attendance, case notes, and evaluation records.
• Submit monthly reports with anonymized feedback, outcome indicators, and recommendations.
• Attend relevant coordination meetings, training, or supervision.

4. Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree or higher in Clinical Psychology, Counseling, or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in psychological support, ideally in humanitarian or human rights settings.
• Experience with journalists/media professionals or trauma-affected populations is an asset.
• skilled in group therapy, trauma recovery, and culturally adapted interventions.
• Proficient in evidence-based MHPSS interventions (e.g., PM+).
• Fluent in Arabic; English proficiency preferred.

5. Duration and Deliverables

Contract Duration: Three years (2024–2027), subject to annual review based on performance and funding.

Key Deliverables:

• 15 group session reports and attendance records (anonymized)
• Pre- and post-assessments of well-being for all group and individual participants
• Documentation of 125 individual counselling sessions (de-identified)
• Protection Case Management files (if applicable)
• Final report summarizing impact and lessons learned

Note: Deliverables may be adjusted based on the selected curricula requirements.