EMDR Therapist (EYE-D Trial)

This is an exciting opportunity for two or three experienced EMDR therapists to join the research team working on a large multi-centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) led from the University of Bristol. It is funded by the NIHR Efficacy and Mechanisms Evaluation (EME) scheme. The EYE-D trial aims to establish the efficacy of EMDR (in addition to usual GP care) compared with usual care for patients with depression in primary care.

An embedded mechanistic study will aim to determine whether reductions in depression are mediated by key memory-processing mechanisms and if working memory capacity is associated with treatment response. A nested qualitative study will examine the acceptability of EMDR for depression, further explore mechanisms, and identify possible causes of differing responses. We will also estimate the cost of delivering EMDR in the NHS.

The EMDR practitioner will work using the EMDR for depression (DeprEnd) protocol. Training in this protocol and regular expert supervision will be provided. The EMDR practitioner will be an EMDR-Europe-accredited practitioner with core professional training in a psychological therapy. Two or three part-time posts are available (1.4FTE total, with individual posts offered on at least a 0.4FTE basis). The post is available from 01 October 2025. Hybrid working is available - the post-holders will be required to travel to deliver therapy in person but some non-contact time could be undertaken remotely. Interviews are expected to take place on 7th July 2025.

What will you be doing?

• Providing EMDR for depression to patients recruited to the EYE-D randomised controlled trial. The postholder will demonstrate fidelity to this model and ensure adherence to all relevant standard operating procedures in line with trial requirements.
• Assessing and managing risk in vulnerable clients in line with the professional standards of your governing body and local policies and procedures, escalating concerns as appropriate.
• Planning and prioritising workload, exercising autonomous professional responsibility for the assessment, treatment and discharge of clients in line with an agreed activity contract.
• Liaising with the trial research team to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the trial with regards to patients receiving the trial intervention.

You should apply if you are an experienced EMDR practitioner who:

• Is an EMDR Europe accredited practitioner
• Has substantial experience of delivering EMDR
• Has experience of managing a caseload and ensuring records are kept methodically
• Has experience of working across agencies, both NHS and non-NHS
• Has excellent communication skills (both verbal and written) and is able to communicate sensitive information to patients, carers and colleagues
• Is proficient in using IT
• Is able to work independently and as part of a team
• Is able to travel independently of the public transport system around Bristol and nearby regions (including Somerset, BANES and Gloucestershire) as required to deliver therapy in GP practices or other NHS premises

Additional information

• Contract type: Open-ended with funding until 30/04/2028 (start date 01/10/2025)
• Work pattern: Part-time to be agreed
• Grade: J
• Salary: £42,882 - £48,149 per annum pro rata (although a higher total salary package may be available to a very exceptional candidate)
• School/Unit: Bristol Medical School
• Shift pattern: 2 positions at 25.50 hours each, but can be split however is best on appointment (1.4 FTE total)

This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 22/06/2025.

The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.