Mental Health Workers for Cambodia

Serve God in a mental health profession so as to see God's transforming glory shine on, in, and through the church, reaching out to touch and transform those with mental health issues and their families, that God's way and heart may be seen through the church, and He may be glorified.

Job Description

The legacy of genocide and civil war, combined with widespread abuse, violence and vulnerability contribute to Cambodia having a high prevalence of psychosocial and mental health problems. These needs have largely been neglected, and the attempts to meet these needs are primarily focused on medicine. There is still a dearth of resources and skilled help for truly meeting these tremendous needs. We want to see God working through His church with love and compassion to build communities of disciples among the emotionally wounded of Cambodia for His glory.

You would be helping Cambodian individuals, families and churches deal with many kinds of problems including personal mental health issues; mental illness; addictions and substance abuse; and family, parenting and marital problems. You may provide direct services in any of these areas, but we aim to see counsellors, mental health practitioners, churches, and families equipped to bring healing and renewal in their communities, to the glory of God.

Responding to these needs with Christ's love and compassion, and developing the church's capacity to do the same is part of our vision to see communities of disciples impacting all of Cambodian society for His glory.


Cambodia is a rapidly developing country, although this development lags behind in the area of healthcare, both physical and psychological. The worker would live in a city or provincial town, with opportunities to connect with existing health services, but might make frequent visits to more rural areas. Transport systems are improving but often neither smooth nor comfortable. Necessities of life are easily available.

Responsibilities

- Provide direct counselling or social work services in Khmer (including developing, implementing and evaluating treatment plans; case management; guiding clients in development of problem-solving skills and strategies; and counselling family members to assist in supporting clients).
- Gather information on community resources and network with other specialists.
- Supervise minimally-trained Cambodian counsellors, social service staff, and assistants.
- Provide training in counselling and mental health issues in the community, church networks, Bible colleges, universities and nongovernmental organisations.
- Be actively involved in the local church, and encourage Cambodians in whole-life discipleship.?br>

Qualifications

- Ability to learn Khmer language and culture.
- A recognized qualification in Counselling, Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy and/or Addictions Therapy.
- At least two years' working experience in a variety of issues, such as: anxiety/depression, suicidal tendencies, family violence, sexual assault/exploitation, addictions and trauma.
- Supervision qualifications and experience would be an advantage.
- Masters or PhD qualification and teaching experience would be required for teaching in university.
- Previous cross-cultural experience would be an advantage.