MACRO’s vision is “A Malawi populace free of ill-health,” and its mission is “To transform the lives of Malawians through the provision of high-quality HIV and AIDS and other health-related services.”
With funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), MACRO is implementing the IMPACT Project, which aims to strengthen effective interventions to address unmet needs for HIV Testing Services (HTS) in CDC-supported districts, contributing to the attainment of the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.
In line with the implementation of the project, MACRO invites applications from suitably qualified, experienced, and motivated candidates to fill the following vacant positions under the IMPACT Project.
Job Title: Psychosocial Counsellor (1)
Reports to: Clinic In charge
Location: Blantyre (MACRO Clinic and Community)
About the Role: The Psychosocial Counsellor will be responsible for providing high-quality, client-centred psychosocial counselling and support services to individuals living with HIV, their partners, families, caregivers, and other clients affected by HIV and related health conditions at MACRO clinics. The role aims to address clients’ emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual needs while promoting mental well-being, resilience, treatment adherence, and overall quality of life.
Job Summary
- Employer: Malawi AIDS Counselling and Resource Organization (MACRO)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Blantyre, Malawi
- Category: Counselling
- Closing Date: 2026-10-20
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct routine psychological assessments, including suicide risk assessments, through interviews, observations, and tests.
- Provide a safe and conducive environment for clients to freely express feelings
- Develop and deliver individual, family, and group-based therapeutic interventions.
- Create and implement intervention plans for all clients, ensuring proper documentation of assessments, diagnoses, and progress.
- Support Community outreach activities and stakeholder strengthening in the district
Requirements
- Minimum of a Diploma in Psychosocial Counselling from a recognized institution.
- Registration with the Medical Council of Malawi (mandatory).
- At least 5 years’ experience providing counseling/psychotherapy.
- Experience in program design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
- Knowledge of HIV programs and Ministry of Health service delivery systems (preferred).
- Proficiency in psychosocial assessment and counseling techniques for individuals, couples, families, and communities.
- Strong respect and empathy for persons living with HIV.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Skills in goal setting, conflict resolution, and group facilitation.
- Superior interpersonal, leadership, research, and time management abilities.
- Open-minded, non-judgmental, and able to listen patiently and carefully.
How to Apply
About the Company
Malawi AIDS Counselling and Resource Organization (MACRO) is a prominent indigenous Malawian non-governmental organization, established in 1993. Operating throughout Malawi, MACRO plays a crucial role in complementing government efforts to combat HIV/AIDS. The organization delivers comprehensive prevention, care, treatment, and support services to Malawian communities, including vital HIV testing and counselling, antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs, and crucial prevention initiatives such as PrEP and VMMC. MACRO actively engages in research, advocacy, and community outreach, significantly contributing to public health. Its unwavering commitment is to empower Malawians and advance the vision of a nation free from HIV and AIDS.
Empowering Malawians: Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Prevention, Care, and Support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Psychosocial Counsellor at an organization like MACRO in Malawi?
You typically need a Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related health field from a recognized Malawian institution like the University of Malawi or Mzuzu University. Additional certification in HIV/AIDS counselling from MACRA or NASFAM is highly valued. Practical experience through internships or volunteer work with local NGOs strengthens your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Psychosocial Counsellor in Malawi?
You will conduct individual and group counselling sessions for clients affected by HIV/AIDS, providing emotional support and coping strategies. Daily tasks include assessing client needs, developing care plans, making home visits in rural communities, and collaborating with health facilities for referrals. Documentation and reporting to donors or supervisors are also essential responsibilities.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ for counsellors in Malawian NGOs compared to government positions?
NGO roles like those at MACRO often demand flexibility with irregular hours including community outreach on weekends, and emphasize meeting donor targets and reporting deadlines. The culture is typically more fast-paced with shorter-term contracts compared to government positions. Employers expect strong community engagement skills, local language proficiency, and willingness to travel to remote areas with limited resources.
What career progression opportunities exist for Psychosocial Counsellors in Malawi's NGO sector?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Counsellor, Programme Coordinator, or Psychosocial Support Manager positions within organizations like MACRO or international NGOs. Some counsellors transition into training roles, becoming master trainers for community volunteers, or move into programme design and monitoring and evaluation. Further studies at Master's level in Public Health or Clinical Psychology opens doors to policy and advisory roles.
What benefits are typically offered to counsellors working with Malawian NGOs like MACRO?
Benefits vary by employer and funding availability, but typically include medical aid coverage, annual leave days as per Malawi labour laws, and sometimes pension contributions where the organization has long-term funding. Some NGOs provide transport allowances for field work, professional development opportunities, and hardship allowances for remote postings. Contract security depends on grant cycles, so multi-year positions are preferable.
How should I apply for a Psychosocial Counsellor position, and what do Malawian employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit your application through the organization's official channels, typically email or their website, with a tailored CV highlighting relevant counselling experience and local language skills. Employers prioritize demonstrated experience with vulnerable populations, strong Chichewa and local language abilities, and references from previous supervisors in similar roles. Showing understanding of Malawi's HIV/AIDS context and community-based approaches significantly strengthens your candidacy.