At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adolescents with depression through evidence-based therapy and collaborative care.
- Company: Join Anna Freud, a leading mental health charity for young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, generous leave, and wellbeing perks.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while gaining valuable training.
- Qualifications: Mental health qualification and experience working with young people required.
The predicted salary is between 33953 - 41499 £ per year.
Location: London
Application Deadline: Wednesday, November 18, 2026
Deadline Time: 12:00 PM
Positions Available: 1
Vacancy Type: Fixed Term/Full Time
Working Hours: Usually Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:00; around 2–3 days per week for academic teaching and study, with at least 2.5 days per week of clinical work
Salary: £47,951 FTE per annum; 6% contributory pension scheme
Job Summary:
Anna Freud has an exciting opportunity for a CYP Psychological Trainings: Therapy Trainee (Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents, IPT-A) to join its Specialist Clinical Services as part of the NHS England (NHSE)-funded Children and Young People (CYP) Psychological Training Programmes. This NHS England-funded initiative supports the development of the child mental health workforce. It combines a one-year, full-time employment post with UCL/Anna Freud postgraduate training, offering the opportunity to put teaching into practice through supervised assessments and brief, outcome-focused IPT-A interventions for adolescents experiencing depression.
About Anna Freud:
Anna Freud is a world-leading mental health charity for children, young people and their families. Our mission is to close the gap in wellbeing and mental health by advancing, translating, delivering and sharing the best science and practice with everyone who impacts the lives of children, young people and their families.
Our EDI Commitment:
Anna Freud is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, with equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) at the heart of our recruitment practices. We welcome applications from all candidates who meet the job criteria, regardless of ethnic origin, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, socioeconomic background, caring responsibilities or care experience. As a Disability Confident employer, disabled candidates who meet our criteria are guaranteed an interview. Applications are submitted anonymously and assessed fairly against the criteria outlined in our job profiles.
What we offer:
We offer a range of staff benefits, including an all-in-one rewards and recognition platform called Perkbox and wellbeing offers such as finishing early on Fridays and free counselling through our Employee Assistance Programme. We are proud to have staff-led Diversity Networks offering unique opportunities for learning, connection and impact.
Training information:
The UCL/Anna Freud postgraduate training in IPT-A begins in January 2027. Trainees are Anna Freud employees and enrolled students of UCL/Anna Freud. The programme combines academic teaching, self-study, supervised clinical casework and assignments. Successful completion leads to a UCL Postgraduate Diploma. Teaching takes place in person at Anna Freud in Central London (4–8 Rodney Street, N1 9JH). Clinical practice takes place within Anna Freud’s Specialist Clinical Services and relevant community and school settings, so trainees must be able to meet the travel requirements of the role.
What you'll do:
- Assess referrals, including mental health and risk assessment, and deliver supervised, evidence-informed IPT-A interventions for adolescents experiencing depression.
- Work collaboratively with young people, families, the multidisciplinary team, schools, primary care, social care and other services.
- Embed the voice of young people and families, collect routine outcome measures, and maintain accurate, confidential clinical records.
- Attend weekly clinical supervision and regular managerial supervision, complete all postgraduate training requirements, and follow Anna Freud’s safeguarding and clinical governance procedures.
What we're looking for:
- Highly motivated candidates who want to support adolescents experiencing depression through inclusive, evidence-based IPT-A practice.
- A registered or accredited core qualification in a mental health profession and current registration with the relevant professional body.
- A minimum second-class bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, or mental health professional training, with at least two years’ post-qualification experience delivering supervised psychological therapy.
- At least two years’ post-qualification therapeutic experience with young people and/or their families in a mental health setting, including multi-agency working and knowledge of safeguarding, risk assessment and IPT-A principles.
- Ability to communicate sensitively, reflect on challenging work in supervision, maintain records and manage caseload demands while balancing postgraduate study with clinical practice.
- A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, collaboration and the travel requirements of the role.
Application process:
This is a dual application process. You must apply separately for the Anna Freud employment post and the UCL training course, and be successful in both. The UCL Course Team will review academic eligibility during recruitment. A UCL training place will only be offered if you secure the employment post and meet the university’s requirements.
Before you apply:
Please review the Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents (IPT-A) course information and application guidance.
Closing date and enquiries:
Closing date for applications: Wednesday 18 November
For application or reasonable-adjustment queries: recruitment@annafreud.org
For course teaching or content queries: cyppttherapy@annafreud.org
Key details:
- Employer and contract: Anna Freud, Full-time, one-year fixed-term training and employment post
- Salary and benefits: £47,951 FTE per annum, plus a 6% contributory pension scheme; 27 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (FTE)
- Location: Anna Freud’s Specialist Clinical Services and community settings; 4–8 Rodney Street, London N1 9JH
- Working pattern: Usually Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:00; around 2–3 days per week for teaching/personal study and at least 2.5 days for clinical work
- Anticipated employment start date: Monday 4 January 2027 (or Monday 11 January 2027 by agreement), within Anna Freud's Specialist Clinical Services.
- Course start date: Monday 18 January 2027, including in-person induction at Anna Freud, King's Cross.
- Pre-employment check: Enhanced DBS with Adult and Child checks
How to apply: click on the 'apply now’ button to apply online. We are unable to accept CVs and kindly request no contact from agencies.
Questions? Please email recruitment@annafreud.org with any job enquiries, or if you require assistance or experience difficulties when applying.
Please note that successful candidate(s) will be asked to evidence their Right to Work in the UK post-job offer – we do not hold a sponsor license therefore we are unable to provide Visa sponsorship.
Data protection:
Information submitted in your application (including your name and contact details, qualifications and relevant experience) will be shared with relevant Anna Freud staff as part of the recruitment process to assess eligibility for the training. As this is a joint Anna Freud and UCL programme, your data may also be shared with UCL for the purposes of shortlisting and, if successful, enrolment onto the programme.
Therapy Trainee – Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents in London employer: Anna Freud
At Anna Freud, we pride ourselves on being a leading mental health charity that champions the wellbeing of children and young people. Our hybrid work model fosters a supportive and inclusive culture, providing our employees with ample opportunities for professional growth, impactful research, and the chance to influence policy in meaningful ways. Join us in making a difference while enjoying the benefits of a collaborative environment in our London office and northern hub.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Therapy Trainee – Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents in London
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Join local mental health events, workshops, or awareness campaigns. You’ll not only learn more about the field, but these gatherings are great places to meet professionals already working in therapy or counselling—who knows, they might even have tips for landing a trainee position!
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re in uni, don’t forget about career services—they're goldmines for finding trainee placements in therapy and counselling. They might host job fairs or have connections with local organisations that are looking for trainees. Make the most of it!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Create a blog or use social media to share your thoughts on therapy techniques, mental health topics, or your learning journey. This makes you more visible to potential employers like Anna Freud, showcasing your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Volunteer for Experience
Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health charities or organisations. Hands-on experience is invaluable and can sometimes lead directly to trainee roles. Plus, it adds weight to your application when you go for positions like Therapy Trainee – Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents with Anna Freud!
We think you need these skills to ace Therapy Trainee – Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Adolescents in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Empathy Skills:In therapy and counselling, empathy is key. When crafting your CV and cover letter, show how you've developed this skill through your experiences, whether that’s from volunteer work, personal experiences, or relevant coursework. It’s all about demonstrating that you have the ability to connect with and understand others.
Showcase Relevant Academic Credentials:For a trainee role in therapy and counselling, your educational background matters a lot. Make sure to list your degrees, relevant coursework, and any certifications you have (like a certificate in counselling skills). If you’ve done any projects or placements, mention those too as they show you’re serious about your career path.
Express Your Passion for Learning:As a trainee, showing that you’re keen to learn and grow is crucial. Your cover letter should reflect your motivation for the role at Anna Freud and your eagerness to develop your skills further. Talk about how you’re dedicated to evolving in the field and contributing to positive outcomes with clients.
Tailor Your Application to Anna Freud:Each place has its vibes and focus areas, so take some time to understand what makes Anna Freud unique. In your application, highlight why you resonate with their approach to therapy. This not only personalises your application but also shows that you’ve done your homework – something we can totally appreciate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anna Freud
✨Showcase Your Empathy and Listening Skills
In the therapy and counselling world, empathy is key. During your interview for the trainee position at Anna Freud, be ready to share examples that demonstrate how you've effectively listened and responded to others' needs. This could be from your studies or any relevant experiences!
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
Often, interviews for counselling roles include role-play exercises to assess your practical skills. Be ready to engage in a mock counselling session during the interview. Practising a few common scenarios beforehand will help you feel more comfortable and confident!
✨Passion for Learning is Key
As a trainee, they’re likely looking for someone enthusiastic about developing their skills. Be sure to discuss your motivations for entering the therapy field and how you're keen on learning new techniques, therapies, and therapies. This will show that you're committed to your own growth and client care.
✨Discuss Your Theoretical Knowledge
Even as a trainee, they’ll expect a solid foundation in counselling theories. Brush up on key theories and be prepared to discuss how you might apply them practically. This shows you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the framework guiding your future practice at Anna Freud.
