Afghan Peer Support Specialist

IRC Background:

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is at work in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future and strengthen their communities. IRC reaches over 50,000 clients annually across the US through programs for resettled refugees, asylum seekers, unaccompanied children, survivors of torture and trafficking, and individuals from local communities welcoming newcomers.

Scope of work:

The Afghan Peer Support Specialist is responsible for building resilience of people forcibly displaced from Afghanistan. This position will be engaging with individuals and families from the Afghan community who are experiencing adjustment difficulties to offer encouragement, practical assistance, guidance, and emotional support. The role will include conducting client-centered needs assessments and skill-building workshops to enhance problem solving and promote positive interactions. Depending on community need, the Mental Health Program Specialist may also run psychosocial support groups, provide educational workshops, and develop community activities that foster healthy connections.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Promote mental health and psychosocial support within affected communities
• Meet with individuals and families in the community to conduct needs assessments
• Prepare an appropriate plan of action with clearly identified goals and activities
• Under supervision, engage in evidenced based psychoeducation and skill building activities
• Document activities through case notes and data entry
• Collaborate with supervisor to provide crisis assessment
• Assist with evaluation of current program services and explore ways to introduce new service opportunities
•  Attend IRC trainings and conference calls addressing mental health program development and other refugee mental health and psychosocial support related topic.
•   Other duties, as required

Key Working Relationships: