Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support adults with mental health issues through CBT while training at the University of Southampton.
- Company: Join Dorset HealthCare, an outstanding NHS Trust dedicated to exceptional healthcare and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a supportive team, and a pathway to permanent employment after training.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on mental health while gaining accredited qualifications in a friendly environment.
- Qualifications: Two routes available: core profession with 2 years experience or 4 years relevant experience with KSA portfolio.
- Other info: Interviews start on 30th June 2025; course begins on 25th September 2025.
Are you passionate about mental health? Would you like to work within a primary care setting in a friendly, dedicated team? Southampton Steps2Wellbeing, an NHS Talking Therapies (NHS TT) service, is looking to recruit Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapists to support adults with common mental health problems.
Successful candidates will undertake a 12-month training course at the University of Southampton, learning to provide Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to patients with depression and anxiety disorders. Trainees will attend training with the University two days a week and apply their skills to a caseload of patients three days a week, including an out-of-hours clinic. The University offers a Level 2 accredited course with BABCP. Upon completion, trainees will meet criteria to apply for provisional accreditation as a CBT therapist with BABCP.
All staff are expected to work flexibly, providing a combination of face-to-face and remote sessions. Attendance at 100% of training days with the University is required. After completing the course, trainees will enter a Preceptorship program with enhanced supervision, peer support, and a triaged caseload, leading to a permanent Band 7 post.
Interviews will take place during the week commencing 30th June 2025. The course will start on 25th September 2025.
There are two routes to eligibility:
- Route 1: You meet the criteria for CBT training, have a BABCP-recognised core profession in mental health or related areas (see BABCP website for accepted professions), and have at least 2 years post-qualification experience.
- Route 2: You do not have a core profession but have 4 years of relevant mental health experience and have completed a KSA portfolio, which you can submit at interview (refer to BABCP KSA guidance). If applying via route 2, ensure you have completed the self-statements for the relevant KSA before the interview.
Please note, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners cannot be recruited until they have at least 2 years post-qualification experience from the date of their exam certification, which must be before 25/09/2023.
At Dorset HealthCare, we are committed to empowering people through outstanding healthcare services. We are a dynamic Trust, rated 'outstanding' by CQC in 2019, serving a population of nearly 800,000. Our workforce of 7,000 is dedicated to building a future workplace that values diversity and inclusion. Join us to build your career, challenge yourself, and help us deliver excellence, compassion, and expertise every day.
For further details or informal visits, contact: Name: Matthew Mills Job Title: West Locality Manager & S3 Specialist Email: dhc.sstw@nhs.net
Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapist employer: CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services
Contact Detail:
CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services Recruiting Team
dhc.sstw@nhs.net
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the BABCP guidelines and requirements for CBT training. Understanding these will not only help you in your application but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the standards expected in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former trainees and professionals in the mental health field. They can provide valuable insights into the training process and what to expect, which can help you prepare for both the interview and the course itself.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your relevant experience in mental health during the interview. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've supported individuals with mental health issues, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Show your passion for mental health by staying updated on current trends and research in the field. This knowledge can be a great conversation starter during your interview and will show your dedication to continuous learning.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapist. Familiarise yourself with the training structure and the expectations of the role within the NHS Talking Therapies service.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience in mental health, particularly any roles that involved direct patient interaction or therapeutic practices. Emphasise your qualifications and any specific training related to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for mental health and your motivation to work as a CBT therapist. Mention how your background aligns with the job requirements and why you are interested in joining Southampton Steps2Wellbeing.
Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, prepare by reviewing common interview questions for mental health roles. Be ready to discuss your understanding of CBT, your approach to therapy, and how you would handle various patient scenarios.
How to prepare for a job interview at CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what a Trainee High Intensity (CBT) Therapist does. Familiarise yourself with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy principles and how they apply to treating depression and anxiety disorders.
✨Prepare Your KSA Portfolio
If you're applying via Route 2, ensure your Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes (KSA) portfolio is complete and well-organised. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that demonstrate your competencies.
✨Show Your Passion for Mental Health
During the interview, express your genuine passion for mental health and helping others. Share any relevant experiences or motivations that led you to pursue this career path.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand the team dynamics and expectations better.
