Mental Health Expert / Support Group Facilitator - Consultant

Helem is the first LGBTQIA+ rights organization in the Arab world, officially established in Beirut, Lebanon in 2001. Its mission is to lead the struggle for the liberation of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Intersex, Transgendered, Queer (LGBTQIA+), and other people with non-conforming sexualities and/or gender identities in Lebanon and the SWANA region from all sorts of violations of their individual and collective civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Our goal is to empower young LGBTQIA+ leaders to advocate for their own liberation. We seek to create initiatives and spaces where our communities can leverage unity through diversity and build power. We protect and support individuals with the resources to resist the harm caused by homophobia and transphobia. We empower our youth through education and community building and mobilize to change the laws, policies, and practices that deny us equality and reduce our quality of life.

In response to the ongoing escalation of war and displacement in Lebanon, HELEM’s Community Center is establishing a series of 3 trauma-informed support groups for LGBTQI+ individuals directly impacted by the current crisis. Each support group will serve 10 to 12 individuals who will benefit from 10 sessions.

These groups aim to provide structured, facilitated spaces that promote psychosocial stabilization, strengthen coping mechanisms, reduce isolation, and foster peer support among participants navigating acute stress, displacement, and instability.
 

Tasks:

1. Contribute to the development of participant screening tools (including distress and safety assessment) and Pre- and Post-intervention Assessment tools;
2. Lead participant screening processes, by reviewing:
   • Emotional readiness for group participation;
   • Identifying individuals requiring referral to specialized or individual support;
   • Grouping eligible participants into 3 separate groups.
3. Develop a structured session plan (10 sessions per group), including themes, and objectives, ensuring that all approaches and techniques are aligned with trauma-informed and LGBTQI+-affirming practices.
4. Ensure ethical handling of sensitive information, confidentiality, and informed consent.
5. Facilitate 3 support groups (10–12 participants each), totaling 30 sessions;
6. Create and maintain a safe, inclusive, and confidential group environment;
7. Manage group dynamics, including conflict, withdrawal, or distress;
8. Adapt session content based on emerging needs and group processes;
9. Complete session-level documentation after each session;
10. Maintain contact with the project manager regarding the status of the group, including changes in meeting dates or times, canceled meetings, participants' attendance, and any other issues or questions regarding the group.
11. Coordinate with the team on any urgent protection or mental health concerns, and for needs that require referrals;
12. Ensure alignment with organizational safeguarding and ethical standards. 

Education and work experience:

• Master Degree in Psychology, Counseling, or a related field;
• Valid certification or license to practice (where applicable);
• Minimum 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in mental health and/or psychosocial support;
•  Demonstrated experience in trauma-informed care. Particularly in crisis, conflict, or displacement contexts is an added value;
• Proven experience in facilitating group-based interventions;
• Experience working with LGBTQI+ communities, with a strong understanding of SOGIESC-related challenges;
• Experience in NGO and/or humanitarian settings is desirable.