Mental Health Support Officer

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 240,000 - 420,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Conference attendance

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo is seeking a Mental Health Support Officer to provide direct support, counseling, and advocacy within a multidisciplinary team. You will develop individualized care plans and connect clients with community resources to promote wellbeing.

The role requires a degree or diploma in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field, at least three years of experience, excellent communication, crisis intervention skills, and a willingness to travel locally.

Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Strong active listening and empathy in client interactions.
• Experience with crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct mental health support and counseling to individuals and families.
• Develop individualized support plans based on assessments.
• Navigate clients to treatment and support services in the community.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Active listening

Crisis intervention

Education

Bachelor's/Diploma in Psychology or Social Work

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dedicated provider of mental health services, is seeking a compassionate and skilled Mental Health Support Officer to join their team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is vital in providing direct support, counseling, and advocacy for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. You will work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement personalized care plans, connect clients with appropriate resources, and promote mental well-being within the community. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant positive impact on the lives of individuals and families in Polokwane and the wider Limpopo region. Your role is central to recovery and support.

Key Responsibilities

Provide direct mental health support and counseling to individuals and their families. Conduct assessments of mental health needs and develop individualized support plans. Assist clients in navigating mental health services, including accessing treatment and support groups. Offer psychoeducation on mental health conditions, coping strategies, and recovery pathways. Act as a liaison between clients, healthcare providers, and community support services. Advocate for the rights and needs of individuals experiencing mental health issues. Organize and facilitate support groups and mental health awareness activities. Maintain accurate and confidential client records and progress notes. Collaborate with psychiatrists, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals. Respond to mental health crises with appropriate intervention and follow-up.

Requirements

Degree or Diploma in Psychology, Social Work, Mental Health, or a related field. Minimum of 3 years of experience in mental health support, counseling, or case management. Strong understanding of mental health conditions, treatment approaches, and recovery principles. Excellent interpersonal, communication, and active listening skills. Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team. Proficiency in maintaining client records and adhering to confidentiality protocols. Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. Knowledge of mental health resources and services available in Polokwane and Limpopo . Empathy, patience, and a non-judgmental attitude towards clients. Valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive annual salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement fund. Opportunities for ongoing professional development, specialized training in mental health interventions, and conference attendance are provided. You will join a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to improving mental well‑being. This role provides generous annual leave and the chance to work in a field that offers profound personal and professional satisfaction in the Limpopo region. Your work will directly contribute to the resilience and recovery of individuals in Polokwane .