Counselor

Job Overview

Rakai Health Sciences Program is seeking dedicated Counselors to deliver essential HIV testing and psychosocial support services across Uganda. This full-time position involves working directly with clients, patients, study participants, and community members to provide comprehensive counseling care. The role plays a vital part in RHSP’s mission to improve public health outcomes through evidence-based interventions and compassionate support.

Successful candidates will conduct pre-test and post-test counseling sessions, communicate HIV results sensitively, and offer ongoing psychosocial support to individuals and couples. The position requires engagement with diverse populations in both clinical and community settings, promoting health education and facilitating partner notification processes. Counselors will work as part of a multidisciplinary team committed to reducing HIV transmission and improving quality of life.

The position demands strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to handle emotionally challenging situations with professionalism. Counselors will contribute to important research and public health initiatives while developing expertise in HIV/AIDS counseling and community health work. This role offers meaningful opportunities to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide pre-test and post-test HIV counseling to clients and patients following national guidelines and RHSP protocols.
• Communicate HIV test results with sensitivity, ensuring clients understand their status and next steps for care.
• Offer ongoing psychosocial support to individuals, couples, and families affected by HIV/AIDS or other health concerns.
• Conduct HIV/AIDS and general health education sessions for community groups, schools, and workplace settings.
• Support HIV disclosure processes and promote couple counseling to improve treatment adherence and prevention efforts.
• Facilitate partner notification and encourage voluntary testing among sexual partners and family members.
• Prepare detailed counseling activity reports documenting sessions, outcomes, and referrals for program monitoring.
• Collect relevant bio-behavioral health data during counseling sessions for research and surveillance purposes.
• Participate in regular counseling team meetings to discuss cases, share best practices, and receive supervision.
• Promote couple counseling and partner testing to reduce transmission risks within relationships.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Possess a recognized counseling qualification from an accredited institution, such as a diploma or degree in counseling psychology or social work.
• Have a minimum of two years of substantial counseling experience, preferably including HIV/AIDS counseling in a medical or community setting.
• Demonstrate fluency in both English and Luganda languages to effectively communicate with diverse client populations across Uganda.
• Hold a valid motorcycle riding permit and possess proven motorcycle riding skills for field work in rural and semi-urban areas.
• Show ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in all counseling interactions and record keeping.

Desirable

• Hold a Ministry of Health HCT (HIV Counseling and Testing) certificate demonstrating specialized training in national HIV counseling standards.
• Have prior experience in community-based counseling programs, particularly those focused on HIV prevention, care, and support initiatives.
• Possess specific expertise in HIV disclosure counseling techniques to assist clients in sharing their status with partners and family.
• Demonstrate proven skills in bio-behavioral data collection methods used in public health research and surveillance activities.
• Exhibit strong teamwork abilities and experience collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary health program teams.

What the Role Offers

• Competitive monthly salary commensurate with qualifications and experience, paid regularly through secure bank transfer to Ugandan accounts.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage including access to private medical facilities for the employee and immediate dependents.
• Monthly housing allowance to assist with accommodation costs, particularly important for those working in Rakai district or relocating for the position.
• Provided motorcycle for field work with full maintenance, fuel, and insurance coverage to ensure reliable transportation to remote sites.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays in accordance with Ugandan labor laws and RHSP employment policies.
• Ongoing professional development opportunities including training workshops, conferences, and supervision to enhance counseling skills.
• Transport reimbursement for approved work-related travel beyond standard field duties, ensuring no personal expense for necessary journeys.
• Lunch subsidy or provision of meals during extended field work days to support nutrition and energy levels during demanding schedules.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a detailed CV, copies of academic and professional certificates, and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the Counselor position. Please apply now by clicking the link below.

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