Classification: Student Affairs

Location: Jahra, Kuwait

About The American International University

American International University (AIU) is a private institution in Kuwait, founded in 2019, offering undergraduate programs in Engineering and Computing, Architecture and Design, Business, Arts and Sciences, and Education. The programs are delivered in English and follow the American model of higher education. AIU serves a community of more than 4,000 students and is implementing the RISE Strategy 2026–2030, a five-year institutional transformation strategy anchored in research development, international accreditation, student success, employability, and community engagement.

For more information, visit: www.aiu.edu.kw

Job Purpose

The Mental Health Counsellor is responsible for providing professional mental health counseling, crisis intervention, psychological support, and wellbeing services to students. The role promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and personal development while supporting student success and retention. The Counsellor works collaboratively with faculty, Student Affairs, and external healthcare providers to ensure students receive appropriate support and care.

Key Responsibilities

Provide individual counseling services to students experiencing emotional, psychological, behavioral, academic, or personal challenges
Conduct mental health assessments and develop appropriate counseling and support plans
Provide crisis intervention and risk assessment for students experiencing urgent mental health concerns
Maintain confidential counseling records and documentation in accordance with professional and legal standards
Coordinate referrals to appropriate external mental health professionals, medical providers, emergency services, and community resources when necessary
Develop and facilitate workshops, support groups, outreach programs, and mental health awareness initiatives
Collaborate with faculty, Student Affairs staff, and university leadership to support student wellbeing initiatives
Participate in university crisis response and student support teams as required
Monitor emerging student mental health trends and recommend proactive support strategies
Contribute to policy development and best practices related to student wellbeing and mental health services
Prepare reports and utilization data while maintaining student confidentiality
Perform other duties as assigned

Required Skills And Qualifications

Strong knowledge of counseling theories, mental health assessment, and intervention techniques
Experience providing counseling services to young adults and university students
Excellent communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills
Ability to manage crisis situations professionally and effectively
Strong understanding of confidentiality, ethics, and professional counseling standards
Cultural sensitivity and ability to work with diverse student populations
Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment
Proficiency in maintaining counseling records and documentation systems

Education and Experience

Master's degree in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, or a related mental health field (required)
Professional counseling licensure, certification, or eligibility for licensure preferred
Minimum of 3–5 years of counseling experience, preferably within higher education or a student-focused environment
Experience providing crisis intervention, mental health assessment, and short-term counseling services required
Experience developing mental health education and prevention programs preferred

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the Job Opportunities section on our website and submit a resume and cover letter via: https://aiu.edu.kw/careers/jobs

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The successful candidate is expected to commence employment immediately.

AIU is an equal opportunity employer committed to academic excellence, professional integrity, and the principled governance of Kuwaiti higher education.