At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to support young people with complex needs through psychological formulation and training.
- Company: Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust is dedicated to improving mental health for 70,000 people annually.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and impactful community service.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to collaborate with Birmingham Children’s Trust and enhance trauma-informed care.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while working in an inclusive and compassionate team.
- Qualifications: Candidates should have relevant clinical or forensic psychology qualifications and experience in multi-agency settings.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
A Vacancy at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Principal Clinical or Forensic Psychologist to work in an innovative integrated service alongside Social Care colleagues from Birmingham Children’s Trust. The Ascent team work with Young People presenting with a high level of complexity and need who are at risk of admission to or in the process of transitioning from Tier 4 hospital placements. The team is based within Birmingham Children’s Trust with an embedded Psychologist from the BSMHFT Children and Young People\'s Division who works across both systems in an integrated manner.
You will join a dynamic, energised team who hold psychology in high regard. The postholder will provide specialist psychological formulation and training to enable effective support to be offered to Young People and their families/caregivers, as well as strengthening the skills base of non-Psychologist colleagues to enable trauma-informed and recovery-oriented care through reflective practice, consultation and training.
This role focuses on utilising the opportunity of working within a multi-agency team to assess and develop a formulation and intervention plan for young people where inpatient admission is considered to be a risk due to their presentation and behaviours that challenge teams and systems. These difficulties will present alongside complex social circumstances and there will be a need for multi-system, multi-agency intervention.
The postholder will work alongside CYP Division and Birmingham Children’s Trust colleagues with the support of a Consultant Psychologist in a role that primarily involves system consultation and formulation with some opportunities for direct psychological intervention. Principal duties will include involvement in service planning and development, participation in Clinical Governance.
Welcome to Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. Our 4000 clinical and support staff help us to improve mental health wellbeing and meet the needs of the 70,000 people we serve each year. We provide a range of mental healthcare services across Birmingham and Solihull, as well as specialised services nationally. We also offer medical, nursing and psychology training and are proud of our international reputation for both research and innovation.
Our population is culturally diverse, characterised in places by high levels of deprivation which create an increasing demand for our services and a necessity for us to make sure everyone can access the help they need. We are a team of compassionate, inclusive and committed people working together to provide excellent care to support our community. If you are looking for a place to belong, where you can make a real difference to people’s lives, join our team where our warm welcome is waiting for you.
For further information about the main responsibilities please view the attached jobdescription and person specification.
This advert closes on Monday 15 Sep 2025
Band 8b Principal Applied Psychologist - FTB in Birmingham employer: Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture where compassionate professionals collaborate to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people facing complex challenges. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees benefit from training opportunities and the chance to work within a dynamic multi-agency team, all while serving a culturally diverse community in Birmingham. Join us to be part of a dedicated team that values your expertise and fosters a sense of belonging.
Contact Details:
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 8b Principal Applied Psychologist - FTB in Birmingham
✨Connect Through Professional Networks
Join associations related to therapy and counselling, like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). They often have job boards, events, and forums where you can meet potential employers and like-minded professionals. Being active in these spaces can give you a significant edge.
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We think you need these skills to ace Band 8b Principal Applied Psychologist - FTB in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to showcase any relevant qualifications you've completed, such as a degree in psychology or counselling certifications. This is super important in the therapy and counselling field, so don’t skip over these details in your CV.
Showcase Your Empathy Skills:In your cover letter, it's essential to demonstrate your empathy and communication skills, which are key in therapy. Share specific examples from your previous experiences where you've effectively helped someone through a tough time—this will make your application stand out.
Demonstrate Your Continued Learning:We love seeing candidates who are committed to ongoing professional development. Mention any workshops, seminars, or additional training you’ve attended recently. This not only boosts your CV but shows your passion for the field.
Personalise Your Application for Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust:Take some time to research Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust and reflect this understanding in your application. Explain why you’re interested in working with them specifically and how your values align with their approach—this personal touch can make all the difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
✨Show Your Empathy and Communication Skills
In therapy and counselling, it's all about how well you connect with others. Be ready to share examples of how you've demonstrated empathy, active listening, and non-verbal communication in past experiences. Your ability to create rapport with clients is key, so let that shine through!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face some scenario-based questions that assess your practical skills in dealing with clients. Think of various client situations or challenges you've encountered or could encounter. Practice how you would respond, ensuring you highlight your problem-solving abilities and therapeutic techniques.
✨Highlight Your Continuing Education
Being in a full-time role in therapy means you need to stay updated with the latest techniques and theories. Mention any professional development courses you've taken recently, or plans you have for ongoing education. This shows that you’re committed to growth in your field and eager to help your clients with the best approaches.
✨Finesse Your Personal Statement
In therapy, your personal statement is a chance to showcase who you are beyond your qualifications. Tailor it to not just highlight your credentials but also your passion for helping others. Share personal stories or insights that led you to this profession, reinforcing why you'd be a great fit for Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust's values and approach.
