Psychological / counseling sessions for social workers (supervision)

Background

In Southeast Asian region, social protection structures remain weak, and there are significant limitations in addressing various challenges. During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous adverse effects emerged, particularly exacerbating inequality in resource access and worsening poverty. In 2021, the epidemic led to over 4.7 million people in Southeast Asia living in extreme poverty, while 9.3 million lost their jobs (according to an ADB report). Workers lacking sufficient skills and those employed in the informal economy were hit hardest. Consequently, many families fell into poverty or experienced even greater hardship. Moreover, the pandemic’s impact extended beyond economic consequences, resulting in increased child labor, sexual exploitation, forced child marriages, and heightened risks of human trafficking.

Project ” Protection of children in great poverty in Sang Thong District, Vientiane Capital” is part of the broader initiative known as “Protecting children in great poverty in Southeast Asia – PEGASE” This regional project spans four countries in Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Laos, Philippines, and Vietnam. Its primary objective is to mitigate violence, combat human trafficking, particularly children and exploitation.

Project ” Protection of children in great poverty in Southeast Asia- PEGASE”, is a regional initiative jointly implemented by 2 Organization of France in collaboration with five associations and several government agencies across four countries. The project’s primary objective is to empower vulnerable families, enabling them to enhance their livelihoods and adopt effective methods for sustainable development. This goal is achieved through a series of well-organized activities, including knowledge exchange and mutual learning among participating entities. Within the framework of this project, a dedicated counseling center will be established to address critical issues related to family planning and violence prevention. The center will provide guidance and support to victims, as a referral service to directing them to legal aid agencies. By focusing on disadvantaged families, the project aims to improve living conditions and enhance family infrastructure. Additionally, it seeks to create a protective social environment for children, safeguarding them from abuse, limited opportunities, and neglect.

Social workers play a vital role in supporting individuals and families within the community. They often face challenging cases, work in potentially hostile or violent environments, and can experience feelings of powerlessness. These factors can contribute to significant stress and burnout.

To ensure the well-being of social workers and in turn, the quality of service offered to clients, this project aims to provide psychological support through individual counselling and group debriefing sessions.

Role

The consultant will support social workers of GDA and LWU in the PEGASE project as the following:

• To provide social workers with a safe and confidential space to discuss work-related stress and challenges.
• To equip social workers with coping mechanisms for managing stress and promoting emotional well-being.
• To foster a sense of support and connection among social workers through group debriefing sessions.

Scope of Services

The consultant will provide the following services:

• Individual Counselling Sessions:
  • Offer confidential one-on-one counselling sessions to address work-related stress, burnout, and emotional challenges.
  • Collaborate with social workers to develop coping strategies and promote emotional well-being.
• Group Debriefing Sessions:
  • Facilitate regular group sessions where social workers can discuss challenging cases, share experiences, and offer peer support in a safe and confidential environment.
  • Utilize techniques such as group discussions, mindfulness exercises, and stress management tools.

Deliverables

• A schedule of individual counselling sessions and group debriefing sessions.
• Quarterly progress reports outlining key themes and challenges identified during sessions.
• Recommendations for ongoing support and resources for social workers.

Selection Criteria for Service Provider

• Qualifications and experience of the mental health professional(s) providing counselling and facilitation.
• Demonstrated experience working with social workers and understanding the specific challenges they face.
• Ability to provide culturally sensitive services.
• Track record of successful implementation of similar programs.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing stress, burnout, and work-related challenges
• Demonstrated ability to create a safe and supportive space for clients
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Reporting

• The consultant/therapist will submit quarterly progress reports to the project manager.
• A final report summarizing the project’s findings and recommendations will be submitted at the project’s conclusion.

Confidentiality

All information shared during individual and group sessions will be treated with strict confidentiality.

How to Apply

GDA/PEGASE is an equal opportunity employment, and the position is available for filling at the earliest possible opportunity.

Interested individuals should send their applications to PEGASE team to the following email address: hr@gdalaos.org cc: thatsany11mimi@gmail.com

For more information Tel: 020 56696246 (Thatsany Keomany)

Applications should be delivered not later than 10 September 2024.

The application should include an application letter (no more than two pages), a CV, copies of academic testimonials, phone number, e-mail address and names of three referees. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.