Senior Counselor – Job Description

Senior Counselor – Job Description

Job Purpose Ensure students’ psycho-social well-being and optimal functionality by providing counseling, psychotherapy, and HIV/AIDS counseling and testing at United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa).

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Individual and Group Counseling
   • Provide counseling and psychotherapy to students to help them manage challenges and achieve academic and life goals.
   • Conduct group counseling and support sessions to foster peer learning and support.
2. Awareness Campaigns
   • Plan, organize, and implement awareness programs on HIV/AIDS, alcohol and drug abuse, sexual and reproductive health, and other relevant topics.
   • Create educational materials like posters and brochures to promote mental health and inform students about critical issues.
3. Crisis Intervention
   • Offer defusing, debriefing, and trauma counseling to individuals or groups experiencing crises.
   • Focus on restoring healthy psychological, cognitive, and social functioning.
4. Life Skills Development
   • Facilitate psycho-education and training on life skills for students, clubs, sports teams, and student leaders.
   • Collaborate with various student groups to foster life and leadership skills.
5. Networking and Referrals
   • Maintain a broad network of mental health contacts to facilitate appropriate referrals for specialized treatment and care.
   • Coordinate with other student affairs sectors and academic schools for effective referrals and consultations.
6. Record Keeping and Reporting
   • Prepare comprehensive clinical notes on clients’ progress for ongoing care and reference.
   • Generate semester counseling and events reports to aid in planning and decision-making.
7. Professional Development
   • Engage in regular continuing education and supervision with an external counselor supervisor to maintain professionalism and service delivery standards.
8. Peer Counselor Training
   • Plan, organize, and supervise training for peer counselors and educators to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, alcohol and drug abuse, and other relevant issues.
9. Technology Utilization
   • Utilize available technology to enhance service delivery efficiency and effectiveness.
10. Surveys and Assessment
    • Conduct needs and impact/client satisfaction surveys to gauge counseling effectiveness.

Educational/Professional Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Counseling/Clinical Psychology from a recognized educational institution.
• Professional Qualifications: Membership to a Professional regulatory body; NASCOP VCT certification.
• Proficiency in computer applications.
• 5 years of counseling experience with at least 3 years of supervised practice.

Personal Attributes and Competencies

• Excellent communication and cross-cultural interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated confidentiality and integrity.
• Strong team player with proactive and self-motivated qualities.
• Attention to detail and ability to execute instructions effectively.

How to Apply

If you have the requisite qualifications and desire to work in a modern, progressive, international, and multicultural institution, please apply by submitting the following documents by 5.00pm, Monday, August 14, 2023:

1. Cover letter
2. Current CV
3. Certified copies of educational certificates and transcripts
4. Names and addresses of three referees
5. Current salary and benefits information
6. Telephone and email contacts

Send your application to:

Director Administration United States International University – Africa P. O. Box 14634-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Email: jobs-dvcasa@usiu.ac.ke

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

1. Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your counseling experience and any related training or certifications.
2. Showcase Communication Skills: Demonstrate strong communication abilities in your cover letter and CV.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Highlight your cross-cultural interpersonal skills to thrive in a diverse environment.
4. Focus on Confidentiality and Integrity: Showcase your commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical conduct.
5. Team Player Attitude: Illustrate your ability to work collaboratively with others.
6. Demonstrate Proactivity: Provide examples of how you’ve taken initiative in your previous roles.
7. Attention to Detail: Mention instances where your attention to detail made a significant impact.
8. Technology Savvy: If applicable, mention your proficiency in using technology for counseling and service delivery.
9. Passion for Awareness and Education: Express your dedication to promoting mental health awareness and educating others.
10. Submit Complete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are included in your application before the deadline.