The global rise in mental health challenges, humanitarian crises, displacement, and post-conflict recovery has created an urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) professionals.
International NGOs, UN agencies, and healthcare providers are seeking Africans and Middle Eastern professionals to fill roles abroad, particularly in Europe, North America, and humanitarian field missions.
If you are a psychologist, social worker, counselor, therapist, psychiatric nurse, or humanitarian worker, this guide will show you the job descriptions, requirements, salaries, and trusted opportunities abroad in 2025.
Job Description or MHPSS Roles Abroad
MHPSS jobs involve supporting individuals and communities dealing with trauma, conflict, displacement, or mental health challenges. Common responsibilities include:
- Providing counseling and therapy for individuals, families, and groups.
- Delivering psychosocial support to refugees, asylum seekers, and conflict survivors.
- Developing community-based mental health programs.
- Training local staff on psychological first aid (PFA).
- Conducting mental health assessments and crisis interventions.
- Working with NGOs, UN agencies, and hospitals on long-term psychosocial care projects.
Explore the Online MPH Program at Regis College
Requirements for MHPSS Professionals Abroad
Employers often look for candidates with:
- Education: Degree in psychology, social work, psychiatry, counseling, or related field.
- Experience: 1–3 years in mental health, trauma counseling, or humanitarian support (entry-level internships also exist).
- Language Skills: English is essential; French or Arabic is an added advantage for UN/NGO work.
- Soft Skills: Empathy, cultural sensitivity, crisis management, and resilience.
- Certifications (Optional but Preferred): Psychological First Aid (PFA), CBT training, WHO MHPSS training, or Trauma-Informed Care.
👉 Note: Some NGOs offer training + placement, making it easier for Africans and Middle Eastern professionals to transition.
Salary Expectations
Salaries vary depending on organization and location:
- International NGOs (Africa/Middle East): $1,200 – $2,500/month.
- Europe & North America: $35,000 – $60,000/year.
- UN Agencies & Humanitarian Contracts: $40,000 – $75,000/year (plus allowances).
- Short-term Missions (Conflict Zones): $100 – $250/day (tax-free in some cases).
Where MHPSS Jobs are in High Demand Abroad
- United Kingdom & Europe – NHS and NGOs hiring mental health workers.
- Canada & USA – Shortage of licensed mental health professionals.
- Middle East (Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq) – Refugee-focused psychosocial programs.
- Africa (Sudan, Ethiopia, DRC, Nigeria) – Humanitarian NGOs hiring for conflict zones.
Trusted Opportunities & Job Boards for MHPSS Jobs Abroad
- ReliefWeb (UN & NGO Jobs)
👉 Search MHPSS Jobs on ReliefWeb - UNHCR Careers (Refugee Mental Health Support)
👉 Explore UNHCR Mental Health Jobs - WHO Global Careers (Mental Health & Public Health Roles)
👉 Work with WHO - International Medical Corps (IMC) – MHPSS field programs worldwide.
👉 View IMC Jobs - Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF/Doctors Without Borders)
👉 MSF Psychosocial Support Jobs - IFRC & Red Cross Movement – Global humanitarian mental health roles.
👉 Check Red Cross Careers
Benefits of Working in MHPSS Abroad
- Opportunity to make a global impact supporting vulnerable populations.
- Professional growth through training, mentorship, and field exposure.
- Competitive salaries and allowances.
- Relocation packages and visa sponsorship for qualified candidates.
- Networking with global mental health and humanitarian experts.
Visa Sponsorship Nursing Jobs in USA for African Professionals (2025 Guide)
Are you passionate about mental health, trauma healing, and humanitarian work? 2025 is the best year to explore MHPSS jobs abroad.
👉 Start applying today through trusted opportunities:
💡 Share this guide with fellow professionals in psychology, social work, and healthcare, it could open life-changing opportunities.
Please pray for me