Established in 1987, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is an international organization dedicated to delivering advanced medical care and advocating for over 2,900,000 patients across 50 countries. In Malawi, AHF collaborates with the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHS) to enhance access to high-quality treatment for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis (TB), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). AHF Malawi currently provides these vital services in 38 remote health facilities across Dedza, Lilongwe, Ntcheu, Nkhotakota, Chikwawa, and Nsanje Districts, with plans for expansion into Chiradzulu and Thyolo in 2026.
To further its national objectives, AHF Malawi is actively seeking highly qualified and experienced individuals for the following career opportunities.
Psychosocial Counsellor (1)
Reports to: Clinical Officer
Duty Station: Trinity Mission Hospital, Nsanje District
Position Summary
The Psychosocial Counsellor will deliver high-quality psychosocial care and therapeutic support to individuals living with HIV, their families, partners, caregivers, and others impacted by HIV. This role involves providing individualized, family-based, and group-based psychosocial interventions, conducting mental health screenings, and performing ongoing assessments to foster treatment adherence, enhance emotional wellbeing, and improve overall health outcomes. The counsellor will also contribute to teen clubs, pediatric clinics, high viral load management, and mentorship activities, aligning with AHF Malawi’s program objectives and Ministry of Health guidelines.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Create a secure, confidential, and stigma-free environment to encourage open expression from clients.
- Conduct routine psychological assessments using interviews, observations, specific tests, and suicide risk screenings.
- Develop and implement tailored individual, family-based, and group psychotherapeutic interventions.
- Prepare and maintain comprehensive client files, including assessment notes, treatment plans, progress reports, and diagnostic records.
- Ensure the strictest privacy and confidentiality for all client-related information.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions and contribute to refining program approaches.
- Offer psychosocial support to pediatric clients, facilitate teen club activities, and engage in youth programs, including mentorship for facility staff.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to address client needs, particularly in high viral load case management and register updates.
- Support zonal supervision teams in mentoring health facility staff on fundamental psychosocial care.
- Provide timely feedback and collaborate effectively with clinicians and other healthcare staff.
- Conduct mental health screenings and initiate appropriate psychosocial interventions within ART clinics.
- Offer consultation counseling services to facility staff as needed.
- Actively participate in team meetings, case conferences, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
Qualifications, Experience, and Other Attributes
- Diploma in Psychosocial Counselling, HIV Care, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- A minimum of two (2) years of experience providing psychosocial counseling and therapeutic interventions to individuals, couples, families, and groups.
- Experience in designing, implementing, and monitoring psychosocial programs is considered an advantageous qualification.
- Strong understanding of HIV programs and the Ministry of Health's service delivery systems.
- Certified HTS Counsellor or prior experience working with people living with HIV is highly preferred.
- Demonstrated high respect, compassion, and professionalism when engaging with vulnerable populations.
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse clients.
- Capacity to maintain confidentiality, adhere to ethical conduct, and consistently provide client-centered care.
- Proficiency in computer skills, including MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Willingness to relocate and work in remote or rural facilities when required.
- Ability to work autonomously, perform effectively under pressure, and manage multiple tasks concurrently.
- Proficiency in local languages and cultural understanding is essential.
Interested candidates should submit their CVs and cover letters to: HR.Malawi@aidshealth.org
Application Deadline: 10 April 2026
Only shortlisted applicants will receive communication. Shortlisting will proceed on a rolling basis.