Job Description

De Montfort University Dubai

is seeking a compassionate, proactive, and highly skilled

Mental Health and Learning Specialist

to join our Student Advice Centre. This vital role supports students' emotional wellbeing, mental health, and academic success through counselling, learning support, and inclusive campus-wide initiatives. The role also contributes to institutional policy development and staff wellbeing.
As part of our commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and mentally healthy university environment, the postholder will provide one-on-one and group counselling, manage learning accommodations, and collaborate with both internal departments and external mental health professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide confidential counselling services for students, including individual sessions, drop-ins, and group support. Develop and manage

Individual Educational Plans (IEPs)

for students with diagnosed or suspected learning needs. Offer tailored academic coaching and study strategies to enhance student performance and reduce stress. Coordinate and lead mental health awareness events such as

Mental Health Week

, wellbeing fairs, and resilience workshops. Collaborate with academic departments, faculty, and university leadership to support students via structured referral pathways. Liaise with external providers, such as clinical psychologists and psychometricians, to ensure holistic care. Advise on institutional mental health policy, safeguarding procedures, and inclusive academic practices. Lead the development and management of a student mental health portal or digital platform. Provide Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) support for staff, including counselling and group workshops. Maintain secure records and ensure strict adherence to confidentiality, GDPR, and ethical standards.

Candidate Requirements:

Qualifications:

Master's degree or equivalent in Counselling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related discipline (Required) Certification and registration with a recognised counselling or psychotherapy body (e.g., CDA, DHA, or equivalent) (Required)

Experience:

Minimum of 1 year's counselling experience, preferably with adolescents or young adults (Required) Proven experience supporting students with learning needs, including developing and implementing IEPs (Required) Understanding of the educational environment and its influence on student mental health (Required) Experience with parent/family outreach and case management systems (Desirable) Familiarity with digital health tools and student support platforms (Desirable)

Skills & Attributes:

Strong interpersonal and communication skills across diverse cultures and student groups (Required) Training in

CBT

, trauma-informed practice, or other evidence-based counselling approaches (Required) Excellent written communication skills for creating reports, workshops, and educational content (Required) High emotional intelligence, empathy, and discretion when handling sensitive information (Required) Ability to manage a diverse caseload, prioritise under pressure, and work independently (Required) Strong understanding of safeguarding protocols, UAE regulations, and international best practices in mental health support (Required) Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends for events and urgent student needs (Required) Commitment to promoting equality, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity in service delivery (Required)

Why Join DMU Dubai?

De Montfort University Dubai is the international campus of DMU Leicester, delivering UK-quality education in the heart of Dubai Internet City. As a Mental Health and Learning Specialist, you'll play a key role in creating a nurturing and resilient student community. You'll join a university that values wellbeing, inclusion, and continuous development--where your expertise will have a direct impact on the lives of students and staff.