Psychologist - Project Survivors Of Torture - Palermo
Pubblicato il 18-03-2026 - Medici Senza Frontiere in Palermo
Overview
MSF Italy has identified migrant and refugee survivors of torture and other forms of intentional violence (SoT) in Palermo metropolitan area among the most vulnerable and neglected people.
For this reason, since ****, MSF has developed a program specifically aimed at this target population through a multidisciplinary model of care (medical, psychological, intercultural mediation and socio-legal support); in collaboration with the National Health System and the University of Palermo with the aim of guaranteeing access to healthcare for SoT, while supporting the capacity building of local actors.
The Project also aims to promote early identifications through collaboration with local actors,
such as CLEDU organization and the University of Palermo (Department of Law).
Responsibilities
With the support of the Project Medical Coordinator (PMC) and the Mental Specialized Activity Manager (MSAM), implementing the planned activities of identification and taking in charge of SoT according to the project medical strategy and SoPs (standard operational procedures).
Participating to the First Assessments, identifying MH needs & risks, planning the Individualized Therapeutic Plans for the MH component and having a proper follow-up.
Providing specialized MH care (individual psychotherapy and group therapy in community settings in Palermo) to survivors of torture and intentional violence, through a trauma informed multidisciplinary treatment model, maintaining good and regular communication and close collaboration with other team members/departments according to therapeutic objectives, following the MSF MHPSS guidelines.
Enhance patient's active role within their own rehabilitation process (survivor-centered approach)
and support the development of peer-to-peer elements in community groups delivery.
Providing basic MH support (assessment and psychosocial support for the hospitalized migrant patients), MH assessment for the medico-legal visit when needed and MH certificates.
Participating in regular team meetings, supervisions, InterVisions and multidisciplinary case discussions, while preparing the case discussion in multidisciplinary asset.
Regularly compiling the project reports and databases (online and paper patient chart, Situational Report treatment plan and regular MH scales for outcome measures, MH first assessment and follow up forms, etc.).
Contributing with the MSAM in reviewing and developing the technical materials, tools, guidelines, and documents,
and following the implementation of all Mental Health standard protocols and procedures set by the project (in collaboration and agreement with NHS staff operating in the SoT service), in order to provide the most appropriate treatment for the patients.
Participating to conferences, trainings and coaching of local staff (NHS and other organizations), according to MSF expertise, on migration health issues with specific focus on the mental health of survivors of torture/violence.
Collaborating with local actors for the referral of specific patients, while reporting problematic situations and cases to the supervisors (MSAM).
In collaboration with the MSAM & PMC,
strengthening relations and ensuring smooth collaboration with NHS staff working in Palermo and the legal partner (CLEDU).
Collaborating to the preparation of mental health promotion materials, when demanded, in delivery of health promotion sessions in regard to mental health.
Contributing in regularly mapping the existing Mental Health services, including other INGO's, local NGO's, community groups and national health system services.
Identifying possible advocacy issues (red flags) and reporting them to the MSAM/PC/PMC.
Participating in communication, advocacy and raising awareness initiatives, according to the specific role in the project.
Based on the project needs, being available to move across different operational locations in Italy (for example, for Psychological First Aid interventions).
Education and Experience
Education Essential degree or diploma in Psychology (master degree) and Psychotherapy.
Experience Essential minimum 2 years' experience as clinical psychologist; highly considered experience in migration setting; desirable previous experience with MSF or other NGO's in developing countries / humanitarian setting as international mobile staff.
Other Requirements
Essential registration with the Italian National Register of Psychologists (Albo Italiano degli Psicologi).
Essential availability to stipulate a professional insurance for gross negligence.
Languages
Essential C1 in Italian;
Essential B2 in English.
Knowledge and Competencies
Essential computer literacy (word, power point and internet).
Competencies:
Results and Quality Orientation L2; Teamwork and Cooperation L2; Behavioural Flexibility L2; Commitment to MSF Principles L2; Stress Management L3.
Contract, Salary and Duty Station
Contract Fixed term contract of 9 months (renewable), Full-time.
Level III of Italian CCNL of Commerce.
Candidates should hold a work permit to work in Italy.
Gross Annual Salary Euro 31,***********,****** depending on the MSF experience of the selected candidate.
Duty Station Project is based in Palermo.
Compensation and Benefits
Health Insurance coverage (San Impresa) as provided by the national contract.
The staff member will be entitled to lunch vouchers.
Accommodation for relocated staff only; MSF provides accommodation in the form of collective housing (if applicable).
Transport:
MSF will cover a round-trip ticket at the beginning and at the end of the contract.
Deadline for application 20/03/2026.
Desired starting date April ****.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
MSF Italy is an inclusive employer that fosters diversity and engages systematically to ensure that equal employment opportunities are provided without regard to age, race, creed, religion, sex, disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin or any other legally recognized status entitled to protection under applicable laws.
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