Psycho-social Support (PSS) Officer

The Sustainable Goals Organization for Afghanistan (SGOA) is a non-profit NGO established in 2020 and registered with the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of Public Health. It operates in various sectors, including WASH, health, education, food security, and livelihood support, providing emergency response and relief to returnees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in remote and underserved areas. Partnering with organizations such as UNDP, UN Women, and NRC, SGOA aims to enhance livelihoods, promote socio-economic inclusion, and deliver humanitarian assistance. Committed to upholding human rights and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SGOA focuses on economic empowerment, improving quality of life, and integrating individuals with disabilities, while valuing honesty, integrity, teamwork, and respect for diversity.

Job Summary

The Psychosocial Support (PSS) Officer will support the delivery of community-based mental health and psychosocial support services under the Sustainable Goals Organization for Afghanistan (SGOA). The role focuses on improving psychosocial well-being through structured interventions, case management, and community engagement activities targeting individuals affected by stress, trauma, and adversity.

The PSS Officer will work closely with program teams, field staff, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that services are delivered in a confidential, ethical, inclusive, and culturally appropriate manner. The position contributes to strengthening community resilience, promoting positive coping mechanisms, and ensuring timely referrals to specialized services, particularly for vulnerable populations including women, children, and persons with disabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Program Implementation

Deliver structured and non-structured psychosocial support (PSS) interventions, including individual counseling, group sessions, and community-based activities.
Conduct Psychological First Aid (PFA) and basic psychosocial assessments.
Identify individuals requiring specialized mental health services and facilitate timely referrals.
Support the development and implementation of weekly and monthly activity plans.
Facilitate sessions on life skills, stress management, and resilience-building.

Case Management & Referrals

Identify and document cases requiring follow-up and maintain accurate case files.
Ensure safe, confidential, and ethical handling of sensitive information.
Coordinate referrals with health, protection, and other relevant service providers.
Follow up on referred cases to ensure continuity of care and support.

Community Engagement & Awareness

Conduct community outreach and awareness sessions on mental health and psychosocial well-being.
Engage community leaders, caregivers, and stakeholders to promote awareness and reduce stigma.
Ensure the inclusion of women, children, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups in all activities.

Coordination & Collaboration

Work closely with program teams (Protection, Health, Education, etc.) to ensure integrated service delivery.
Participate in coordination meetings and contribute to activity planning and implementation discussions.
Collaborate with relevant authorities and partners to enhance service delivery.

Monitoring, Reporting & Documentation

Maintain accurate records of beneficiaries, activities, and case management data.
Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly reports in line with project and donor requirements.
Monitor the quality and effectiveness of PSS activities and suggest improvements.
Ensure proper data protection, documentation, and confidentiality at all times.

Emergency Response

Provide immediate psychosocial support during emergencies and critical incidents.
Be available for urgent cases, including weekends and after working hours when required.

Safeguarding & Compliance

Ensure adherence to safeguarding, child protection, and PSEA policies.
Promote a safe and respectful environment for beneficiaries and staff.
Ensure ethical conduct and respect for diversity, dignity, and inclusion in all activities.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
Diploma or certifications from IPSO or MoPH in psychosocial support or mental health are an advantage.

Experience

Minimum of 1–3 years of relevant experience in psychosocial support, counseling, or mental health programming.
Experience in case management, community-based interventions, or protection programming is desirable.
Previous experience working with NGOs, INGOs, or donor-funded projects is an advantage.

Technical Skills

Basic computer skills, including MS Office (Word, Excel, and email).
Knowledge of psychosocial support approaches, Psychological First Aid (PFA), and basic counseling techniques.
Understanding of case management principles and referral pathways.
Familiarity with safeguarding, protection, and confidentiality standards.

Soft Skills

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Empathy, active listening, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Good organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Language Skills

Fluency in Dari and/or Pashto is required.
Working knowledge of English is preferred.

Other Requirements

Willingness to travel to field locations and work in challenging environments.
Availability to work additional hours or weekends in emergency situations.
Commitment to gender equality, inclusion, confidentiality, and SGOA’s mission and values.

Candidates who meet the above-mentioned criteria are invited to apply through the submission link provided below. Applicants are required to upload their updated CV and cover letter and ensure that all requested documents are clear and complete. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Qualified local candidates are strongly encouraged to apply and will be given priority consideration.