Psychological Health Specialist

About Hato Hone St John

Since 1885, Hato Hone St John has been dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders. The organisation employs nearly 12,000 individuals across the country, fulfilling a wide range of roles from emergency response to health education and monitoring, all with the goal of positively impacting communities every day.

Role Overview

The Psychological Health Specialist will report directly to the Health and Wellbeing Advisory Lead, providing expert consultation on managing psychological health and psychosocial risks within the organisation. Working jointly with Health, Safety, and Wellbeing Advisors and leadership teams, the specialist will guide complex psychological health issues, support the rollout of health initiatives, and foster organisational capabilities to improve mental health outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Offer expert guidance on intricate psychological health challenges, including suicide risk, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, and other related issues.
• Advise on intervention approaches, support pathways, and referral mechanisms to ensure proper connection to internal and external resources.
• Design, implement, deliver, and assess psychological health programmes, resources, and communication efforts aimed at fostering mental wellbeing.
• Contribute to developing organisational strategies, frameworks, and initiatives related to psychological health and wellbeing.
• Coach and assist HSW Advisors, leadership, and managers in identifying and responding effectively to psychosocial risks.
• Collaborate closely with various stakeholders to manage psychosocial risks and complex psychological challenges across the organisation.
• Coordinate with external specialists and service providers while strictly upholding confidentiality and privacy standards.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Holds a recognised degree or professional qualification in Psychology, Counselling, Mental Health, Social Work, or a closely related field, along with relevant licensing or certification to practice.
• Experience within emergency services, first responder units, defence, public sector, or other high-risk operational sectors is highly advantageous.
• Proven background in supporting psychological health, psychosocial risks, or workplace wellbeing initiatives.
• Comprehensive knowledge of trauma-informed care, mental health literacy, and psychosocial hazard management.
• Experience guiding leaders and employees through sensitive and complex psychological health situations.
• Capability to efficiently coordinate external support and referral systems.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, adept at engaging with individuals at all levels and managing sensitive conversations with empathy, professionalism, and discretion.

Additional Information

Hato Hone St John values diversity and fosters an inclusive workplace environment where every individual can bring their authentic self to work. The organisation is committed to ensuring accessibility in the recruitment process and encourages applications from women and under-represented groups, even if applicants do not fully meet all listed criteria.

For further details or to discuss the role confidentially, interested individuals may contact the listed representatives at the organisation.