Group Counselor / Therapist

Helem is the first LGBTQIA+ rights organization in the Arab world, officially established in Beirut, Lebanon in 2001. Its mission is to lead the struggle for the liberation of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Intersex, Transgendered, Queer (LGBTQIA+) and other people with non-conforming sexualities and/or gender identities in Lebanon and the SWANA region from all sorts of violations of their individual and collective civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. Our goal is to empower young LGBTQIA+ leaders to advocate for their own liberation. We seek to create initiatives and spaces where our communities can leverage unity through diversity and build power. We protect and support individuals with the resources to resist the harm caused by homophobia and transphobia. We empower our youth through education and community building and mobilize to change the laws, policies, and practices that deny us equality and reduce our quality of life.

We are looking for a Group Counselor/Therapist to moderate 12 support group sessions (150 USD / session) for family members of LGBTQI+ individuals. This initiative is designed to help them:
- Gain information about SOGIESC from medical, social, cultural, and religious perspectives.
- Engage with other parents and relatives of LGBTQ* individuals to exchange experiences, discuss concerns, and overcome challenges.
- Receive guidance and advice for stronger and healthier relationships with their LGBTQI+ loved ones.

These sessions are meant to foster a sense of community and solidarity among participants. Through shared experiences and collective wisdom, family members of queer individuals would find comfort, guidance, and encouragement to strengthen their relationships with their queer loved ones and perhaps become advocates of LGBTQI+ rights.

Tasks:

1. Plan and implement 12 sessions for a support group of 10 to 12 participants according to the results of Helem’s pre-assessment interviews. Participants will be family members of LGBTQI+ individuals.
2. With the assistance of the project manager, develop the support group activities based on the needs and interests of the participants.
3. Provide a safe space for exploration, sharing of experiences, and the expression of challenges and anxieties.
4. Negotiate/facilitate conflicts or disagreements that may arise during group sessions.
5. Promote a consensus-building approach where every participant has a say in the direction of the group.
6. Demonstrate excellent knowledge of SOGIESC.
7. Demonstrate communication and leadership skills.
8. Support the participants in developing their mutual support network outside of the group if they wish to do so.
9. Maintain confidentiality and respect the individual needs of the participants. Provide 1-1 support when necessary.
10. Evaluate the participants’ progress by relying on relevant key indicators. 
11. Submit a report for each session on participants’ progress, topics discussed, challenges encountered, methods/tools used, and recommendations. 
12. Maintain contact with the project manager regarding the status of the group, including changes in meeting dates or times, canceled meetings, participants' attendance, and any other issues or questions regarding the group.
13. Participate in meetings relevant to the family solidarity initiative upon request.

Education and work experience:

1. Completion of a master’s degree in psychology and/or other related fields e.g., social work, human and social sciences, etc.
2. At least five years of prior professional experience in fields related to psychology, social work, and community empowerment.
3. Total understanding and execution of the “do no harm” and “non-discriminatory” principles.
4. Integrity, flexibility, and a good team spirit.
5. Excellent knowledge of gender identity, sexual orientation, gender expression, and sex characteristics.
6. Previous experience working closely with LGBTQI+ individuals.
7. Excellent understanding and empathizing with LGBTQI+ individuals and SOGIESC-related issues.
8. Previous experience in relationship counseling or family counseling is a plus.
9. Previous NGO experience is a plus.
10. Working permit/License from MoPH (if specialized in provision of therapy).
11. Ability to work effectively with diverse communities and ensure their needs are met.
12. Ability to work under pressure and within strict timelines.
13. Excellent communication skills.
14. Very good reporting skills.
15. Fluency in verbal and written Arabic and English.
16. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.