Psychosocial Support Facilitator

Background

FIRST Step Together Association (FISTA) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive impairments, communication disorders, psycho-motor difficulties, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, hyperactivity, behavioral, and psycho-social problems. Established in 1993 and located in North Lebanon, FISTA’s mission is to provide education, vocational training, and professional rehabilitation for persons with disabilities, and to advocate for their rights. FISTA adheres to a strict zero-tolerance policy against any form of gift, favor, or hospitality offered to its staff by suppliers. This policy extends to a firm stance against sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, and child abuse, with a commitment to thoroughly investigate all allegations and take appropriate disciplinary action when necessary.

FISTA is looking for a Psychosocial Support Facilitator under the “Shabake2” Project which aims to enhance the resilience of civil society organizations in Lebanon with the aim of improving crisis prevention and management.

Key Responsibilities

The intention of this position is to build the resilience of Most Vulnerable children and youth Through Psychosocial Support activities. The Facilitator implements the activities in a manner that leaves considerable positive impact on children and youth with disabilities.

1. Planning and implementation responsibilities:

• Assess the main similar needs / issues faced by the targeted community group of children.
• Develop an action plan of PSS activities, topics and other type of interventions with the group based on a “Group intervention approach”, with the supervision of the program consultant.
•  Implement these sessions on a periodical manner and evaluate each session with the children as well as with the project coordinator and the academic consultant.
•  Revise sessions according to each feedback/evaluation and constantly adapt approaches and exercises.
•  Promote and ensure the students Children participation in all activities.
•  Ensure that all activities are done in an appropriate location in line with minimum standards.
• Document all necessary feedback and provide regular monitoring report to the project coordinator and the academic consultant on the progress of children.
• Ensure that parents receive regular feedback and advice on their children progress and interaction.
• Ensure that all children and caregivers are aware of any accountability/ complaint mechanism.
• Refer cases of children when needed. Ensure sector specific tools (ex: pre- and post-questionnaire) as well as any specific organization assessment tools are implemented.

1. Facilitation responsibilities:

• Ensure the use of good facilitation skills that make the children feel comfortable and enhance their participation and personal development.
•  Ensure that children are not exposed to any form of harm or stress during the activity and that they feel safe and respected.
• Positively interact with children and encourage them to express their needs and ensure their safety.
•  Ensure participation of children in the focused program in a non-discriminatory as well as age and gender sensitive and appropriate approach.
• Provide all material needed for each activity.

Qualifications and Experience

Qualifications and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in teaching diploma or Education or psychology is required.
• An experience of at least five years working in conducting psychosocial support sessions.
• Experience working with children with disabilities.
• Practical experience in providing psychosocial support to children who have various disabilities, using specialized techniques and interventions tailored to their specific circumstances.

Soft Skills:

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to relate well to others is essential.
• Communication Skills: Must possess excellent verbal communication and active listening skills.
• Time management skills
• Patience: The ability to remain patient throughout the treatment process.
• Trustworthiness: Expected to maintain confidentiality of patient information.
• Empathy: An understanding and identification with others’ experiences.
• Critical Thinking Skills: The capacity to accurately diagnose and develop effective treatment plans.
• Commitment to human rights principles.
• Respect for the roles and positions of each team member.
• Flexibility to adapt to special situations or supervisor requests.
• The ability to work with patients from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.