Psychiatrist-mh GAP Expert

Mission

MdM-SP is seeking an experienced Psychiatrist to oversee the implementation of Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) activities in the supported PHCCs. The psychiatrist will be responsible for strengthening mhGAP integration within the health facilities, conducting trainings for healthcare providers, providing regular clinical supervision, and ensuring the overall success of the mhGAP services in the supported PHCCs. The position also involves collaboration with local health authorities, partner organizations, and community stakeholders to improve service delivery in the region.

Geographical scope of intervention

Medicos del Mundo -Spain (MDM- SP)- is an international humanitarian organization providing medical care in conflict-affected regions in over 17 countries worldwide. In North-East Syria (NES), MDM-SP has been actively present since 2017, supporting the provision of comprehensive primary health care services, including mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) in public health facilities. Currently, MDM-SP is supporting 22 Primary Health Care Centers (PHCCs) across three governorates of Hasakah, Raqqa, and Aleppo. The organization is working to strengthen mental health services through the implementation of the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), which aims to build local capacity and improve the quality of care for individuals with mental health, neurological, and substance use disorders (MNS).

Organisation chart

The candidate will report to the MHPSS Coordinator. He / She will have technical link with MHHPSS referent in HQ.

Functions

Strengthening mhGAP Implementation in PHCCs:

– Work closely with the MHPSS and Medical Coordinator to ensure the integration of mhGAP into the existing health services, addressing gaps in mental health care.

– Ensure high-quality implementation of mhGAP activities across the 22 PHCCs in Hasakah, Raqqa, and Aleppo governorates, ensuring adherence to program standards and continuous monitoring of outcomes.

– Provide expert advice and technical support to General Practitioners (GPs), psychologist and other health staff in the PHCCs

– Coordinate with other service providers organizations providing mhGAP services to ensure alignment and effective collaboration.

– Monitor and report on the progress and impact of mhGAP implementation, including identifying barriers and recommending solutions.

– Collaborate with the MHPSS and Medical Coordinator to identify key messages related to mental health disorders for community sensitization and radio broadcast content development, aiming to reduce stigma and address barriers in the community.

– Ensure referral pathways are in place for patients and beneficiaries to receive the necessary support from service providers and be connected to community resources.

– Collaborate with local community leaders and organizations to increase participation and outreach effectiveness.

Training, supervision and coaching:

– Support general practitioners in the management of mental, neurological, and substance use disorders through direct supervision, on-the-job training, and, when necessary, providing direct psychiatric care and consultations for complex or severe cases.

– Provide training to medical doctors (general practitioners) and other clinical staff on psychiatric care and the management of mental, neurological, and substance use (MNS) conditions as per mhGAP intervention guidelines incorporating best practices on non-pharmacological treatments.

– Provide individual clinical supervision, and group case review and discussions with general practitioners (including psychologists) to ensure quality mhGAP provision in the PHCCs.

– Conduct regular monitoring visits to the PHCCs to assess the implementation of mhGAP, assess quality of care, perform gasp analysis, provide technical support, and address any challenges.

– Cultural adaptation of training materials and guidelines.

Monitoring and reporting:

– Monitor and support the proper management of psychotropic medications, including tracking consumption trends and stock levels, to ensure the correct use and management of these medications. Additionally, assist the pharmacy team in overseeing the appropriate prescription and usage of psychotropic drugs in line with treatment protocols.

– Review monthly reports/databases and provide feedback and analysis to coordinators.

– Support with development of practical tools for field teams to improve the quality of mhGAP services.

– Develop and or revise supervision and monitoring tools related with the mhGAP program as needed

– Participate in the development and review of donor reports.

– collaborate with relevant teams to gather data, analyze outcomes, and ensure alignment with donor expectations and reporting guidelines.

– Developing success stories and case studies to highlight the impact of the project on beneficiaries and communities, to be used in reporting, donor communications, and advocacy efforts.

Coordination:

– Work in close coordination with other MdM staff, local relevant stakeholders, and partners to ensure that mental health services are integrated effectively into the broader healthcare system.

– Provide regular updates and reports on the progress of mhGAP activities, challenges encountered, and achievements.

– Contribute to the development of strategies and action plans aimed at improving mental health services in Northeast Syria.

– Organize regular meetings and with PHCC staff to discuss implementation and identify challenges, barriers, and best practices.

– Participate in MHPSS and Health working groups, providing updates and collaborating on key initiatives, tasks and advocacy related activities.

Other assignments:

– Participate in additional tasks as requested by the Country Coordinator, MHPSS Coordinator, HQ staff, and other colleagues, contributing to the overall success of the program and supporting team efforts as needed.

Required qualifications

Medical Degree with specialization in Psychiatry.

Minimum 3-5 years of professional experience in mental health, particularly in humanitarian or emergency settings.

Previous experience in delivering mhGAP training and supervision of GPs is a strong asset.

Psychotherapy training and experience is highly perceived

Experience

-Experience in working in Syria or similar conflict-affected regions will be an asset.

-Fluency in English and Arabic (both spoken and written) is required; knowledge of Kurdish is an asset.

-Knowledge of international humanitarian standards and protocols for mental health services.

-Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with authorities, coordination bodies, community leaders, and vulnerable populations.

Competence profile

High organizational capacity and for adaptation to post-emergency situations.

Professionalism.

Proven capacity for teamwork and networking capacity.

Thoroughness and self-sufficiency at work.

Strict compliance with the safety protocols established for the country and MdM mission

Identification with the lines of work, values and mission of Médicos del Mundo.

Cultural sensitivity and the ability to adapt training and care to the local context.

Availability

1st January 2025 until 30/6/2025 (possible extension).

Salary

Medicos del Mundo’s Salary charts.

Category: Group 3

Available R&R Policy