At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead psychological care for complex cases and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.
- Company: Join EPUT, a supportive and inclusive NHS foundation trust.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, excellent pension, staff discounts, and relocation package.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for teaching and research.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Doctoral training in Clinical/Counselling Psychology and relevant post-doctoral qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 64455 - 74896 £ per year.
The closing date is 01 April 2026.
As the Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist in the SMHT, you will work alongside multidisciplinary colleagues to deliver evidence‑based, trauma‑informed and recovery‑focused care to service users presenting with complex needs. You will be responsible for assessment and formulation as well as the development and delivery of the clinical offer, which includes individual and group work, training, complex case discussions, debriefs following serious incidents and reflective practice.
Main duties of the job:
- You will hold a senior clinical leadership role for the psychological provision in the team, with responsibility for clinical supervision as well as some delegated line‑management responsibilities for psychological services staff.
- You will work closely with the other Principal Psychologists who lead within teams in other localities and report to the Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Head of Service.
- You will play a role in ensuring key performance indicators are met and relevant data maintained to support audit and reporting.
Within West Essex we have specialist skills and training in a variety of approaches including CAT, CBT, CBTp, DBT, EMDR and CFT. Training and development is strongly supported. We also have active links with our local Clinical Psychology training programmes, and there are opportunities for involvement in teaching, supervision and research. The role is based within Uttlesford although there will be occasions when you are asked to travel to other sites.
About us:
Valuing you. Recognising your dedication. At EPUT, we look after you. Receive supervision and support to help you fulfil your potential. Join an inclusive EPUT community and connect with others through engagement events and equality or champion networks. If you need help, we provide mental health and wellbeing services, occupational health advice and counselling. We run recognition awards to recognise staff's hard work and dedication.
27 days holiday, plus bank holidays, rising to 33 days after 10 years' service. Excellent pension of up to 14.5% of your pensionable pay. Staff discounts include Blue Light Card, NHS discount offers, and staff benefits. £8K relocation package if you move to Essex to join us. Season ticket loans are interest‑free to cover the cost of travelling to and from work via tram, rail, or bus.
Work that wraps around your needs:
Flexible working: available from day one for most roles. Job share: Applications for job shares are welcomed.
Job responsibilities:
Please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification for a detailed list of job responsibilities.
Person Specification:
Education/Qualifications/Knowledge:
- Doctoral level training in Clinical or Counselling Psychology, or equivalent for those who trained prior to 1996, including specifically models of psychopathology, clinical psychometrics and two or more distinct psychological therapies and lifespan developmental psychology as accredited by the BPS.
- HCPC Registration.
- Post‑doctoral qualifications in one of these: DBT/CBT/CAT/Schema Therapy/CBTP/EMDR/Family Therapy or other evidence‑based models for the treatment of complex cases, personality disorders, psychosis or an interest in pursuing these.
- Evidence of continued professional development.
- Pre‑qualification training and qualifications in research methodology, staff training and/or other fields of applied psychology.
Skills/Experience:
- Evidence of competence and experience of working as a Clinical/Counselling Psychologist suitable for senior responsibilities.
- Experience of training and supervising.
- Experience of exercising full clinical responsibility for client's psychological care and treatment, both as a professionally qualified coordinator of care and also within the context of multidisciplinary care plan.
- Experience of selection and recruitment.
- Substantial experience of contributing a psychological perspective within the context of multidisciplinary care.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check:
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust £64,455 to £74,896 a year per annum pro rata.
Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist, Adult Community Services in Stansted Mountfitchet employer: Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
At EPUT, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment for our Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologists. With a strong emphasis on professional development, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and pension contributions, we ensure that our staff are valued and recognised for their dedication. Located in the vibrant community of Uttlesford, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams while contributing to meaningful mental health care for those with complex needs.
Contact Details:
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist, Adult Community Services in Stansted Mountfitchet
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of psychology, especially those who work at EPUT or similar organisations. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your clinical knowledge and the specific therapies mentioned in the job description. We want you to showcase your expertise in CAT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR during those crucial conversations.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates right there.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist, Adult Community Services in Stansted Mountfitchet
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Expertise:As a Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist, it’s crucial to demonstrate your knowledge in evidence-based practices and trauma-informed care. Share specific examples of your work that illustrate your expertise and impact.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
✨Know Your Theories
Brush up on the psychological theories and therapies mentioned in the job description, like CBT, DBT, and EMDR. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your previous roles, especially in complex cases.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Clinical/Counselling Psychologist, you'll be in a senior role. Prepare examples of how you've led teams, supervised staff, or contributed to multidisciplinary care plans. Highlight your experience in training and development too!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your clinical judgement and decision-making skills. Think of specific cases where you had to formulate assessments or manage crises, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Engage with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the values and community focus of the organisation. Be prepared to discuss how you align with their commitment to trauma-informed care and recovery-focused practices, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for their culture.
