At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver art therapy assessments and interventions to support mental health recovery.
- Company: Join the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust's FIRST Team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive team environment with professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working with travel across the West Midlands area.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of individuals transitioning from secure services.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified Art Psychotherapist with experience in mental health settings.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for a 0.6 WTE Band 7 Art Psychotherapist to join the Forensic Intensive Recovery Support Team (FIRST), a specialist forensic community mental health team based in Rubery, South Birmingham and covering the West Midlands area. The aim of the service is to contribute to the successful transition of adult service users with significant risk histories and mental health difficulties out of secure inpatient services and support their continued recovery and risk management in the community.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver specialist art therapy assessments and interventions on an individual basis with service users.
- Facilitate group interventions where appropriate.
- Provide specialist advice and consultation to multidisciplinary colleagues.
- Support the delivery of reflective practice for staff.
- Contribute to the ongoing development and evaluation of art therapy within FIRST and wider Secure Care.
Supporting Structure
You will be joining our friendly Psychological Therapies team in FIRST, which includes practitioner psychologists, specialist psychological practitioners, and assistant psychologists, all of whom have developed a strong appreciation of the beneficial role art therapy can play in our service users’ ongoing recovery. You will be supported by the Head of Arts Psychotherapies within the Trust and have regular clinical supervision from an Art Psychotherapist. The Division funds forensic arts therapy group supervision and encourages attendance at local and Trust-wide development meetings for Arts Psychotherapists.
Travel & Work Area
Due to FIRST being a community service that covers a wide geographical area, this role would typically involve some regular travelling to areas within the West Midlands area.
Apply & Closing
For further information about the main responsibilities please view the attached job description and person specification. This advert closes on Tuesday 20 Jan 2026.
Band 7 Art Psychotherapist - FIRST Team | Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As a Band 7 Art Psychotherapist within the FIRST team, you will benefit from regular clinical supervision, access to development meetings, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of service users in the community. Located in the vibrant West Midlands, this role not only allows for personal and professional fulfilment but also fosters a strong sense of community engagement and teamwork.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 7 Art Psychotherapist - FIRST Team | Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
✨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.
✨Show Up at Local Mental Health Events
Look for workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on mental health in your area. Not only can you learn valuable insights, but you can also network with professionals who might be aware of full-time opportunities, like the ones at Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd. Plus, showing your passion for the field in person can leave a lasting impression.
✨Utilise Online Platforms Tailored to Counselling
Websites like TherapyJobs or Indeed specifically cater to therapy professionals. Make sure to check these regularly for new listings, and consider setting up alerts to stay ahead of the game. Plus, applying directly through these platforms can sometimes give you better visibility.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re recently graduated or still in school, don't forget to tap into your university's career resources. They often have exclusive listings for full-time positions and can help you refine your interview skills. Plus, they might connect you with alumni who’re already working at places like Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd.
We think you need these skills to ace Band 7 Art Psychotherapist - FIRST Team | Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
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 Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd:Take some time to research Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd 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 Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
✨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 Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd's values and approach.
