At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide 1:1 counselling to young people and adapt your therapeutic approach creatively.
- Company: OTR, a passionate organisation dedicated to mental health support for youth.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, enhance your skills, and make a real difference in young lives.
- Other info: Flexible hours, robust training, and a commitment to safeguarding young people.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and help shape the mental health of future generations.
- Qualifications: Qualified or training therapists with a creative approach to therapy.
Application Deadline: 21/06/2026
Hours: 7.5 per week
Salary: N/A
Contract Type: Voluntary
Interview Date: 21/06/2026
OTR seeks passionate, creative therapists to volunteer delivering 1:1 counselling/psychotherapy mental health support to young people (11‑18 years) across Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.
Locations:
- 8‑10 West Street, St Philips, Bristol, BS2 0BH
- 40a Rodney Road, Backwell, BS48 3HW
Key Responsibilities & Expectations:
- Provide individual therapeutic support to young people in a confidential setting.
- Work collaboratively within an innovative team delivering mental health support.
- Adapt therapeutic approach to meet the needs of each young person, potentially working outside one’s primary modality.
- Participate in supervision and training as required by BACP regulations.
Qualifications & Experience:
- Qualified or in training as a therapist (art, counselling, CBT, drama, systemic, play therapy, etc.).
- Creative and open to multiple therapeutic modalities.
- Ability to work effectively with young people.
- Demonstrable experience in a supporting/helping role with young people or adults.
- Trainees in their first year of training should have evidence of working therapeutically with young people.
Safeguarding Commitment:
OTR is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All volunteers are subject to robust pre‑employment checks, including a full DBS check, and will be required to adhere to OTR’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy.
Equal Opportunities:
We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to developing a team that reflects the diversity of the people we work with.
Volunteer Therapist employer: Off the Record (Bristol)
OTR is an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people through mental health support. With a strong commitment to safeguarding and a collaborative, innovative work culture, volunteers will find ample opportunities for personal and professional growth while working in the vibrant communities of Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. Join us in creating a supportive environment where creativity and diverse therapeutic approaches are valued.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Therapist
✨Get Involved in Local Mental Health Initiatives
Dive into your community by volunteering with local mental health organisations or support groups. It’s a fantastic way to build connections, gain hands-on experience, and show your dedication to the field.
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you're a student, tap into your university career services to find volunteering opportunities in therapy and counselling. Many universities have partnerships with local clinics and organisations looking for volunteers who are passionate about helping others.
✨Join Online Therapy Communities
Hop onto platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn to find groups dedicated to therapy and counselling. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can make you more visible to those looking for volunteers, plus you’ll learn a ton along the way.
✨Keep an Eye on Local Events
Watch out for mental health awareness days or workshops happening in your area. These events can be goldmines for meeting professionals in the field, plus you might find out about volunteering openings directly from the organisers. Don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Therapist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:In the therapy and counselling fields, it’s super important to showcase any volunteer work or practical experience you've had. Whether it's work at a helpline, internship at a clinic, or even informal support roles, make sure to detail the skills you've gained that are relevant to the role at Off the Record (Bristol).
Show Your Passion for Helping Others:In your application, let your genuine motivation for wanting to help others come through. Share personal stories or anecdotes that illustrate why you’re interested in volunteering in therapy and counselling—this helps us see your heart for it and connects your experiences to what Off the Record (Bristol) does.
Include Relevant Qualifications or Coursework:If you've completed any relevant courses, certifications, or even workshops related to counselling or therapy, don’t forget to mention them! Listing these in your CV can set you apart and shows that you're committed to developing your skills further, which is crucial in a volunteering role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Organisation:When crafting your cover letter for the volunteer position at Off the Record (Bristol), make sure to address why you specifically want to volunteer with us. Research our values, mission, and any current initiatives we’re involved in to create a personalised letter that demonstrates your fit and enthusiasm for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Off the Record (Bristol)
✨Know Your Techniques
Brush up on the specific therapy techniques or approaches you've studied. Whether it's CBT, person-centred therapy, or another method, being able to discuss these in the interview will show your understanding and preparation for the role at Off the Record (Bristol).
✨Show Your Empathy
Since we’re aiming for a volunteer role in therapy or counselling, be prepared to showcase your interpersonal skills and empathy. Consider having examples ready that demonstrate how you've supported others in past situations, even in non-professional contexts. This can really resonate with the interviewers.
✨Discuss Your Motivation
With volunteer roles, employers at Off the Record (Bristol) will be keen to hear about your motivation. Be honest about why you want to volunteer in therapy and how this experience fits into your personal or career goals. This openness can make a strong impression!
✨Reflect on Ethical Dilemmas
Be ready to tackle questions about ethical dilemmas in therapy. The interview might involve scenario-based questions where they want to see how you prioritize client welfare and confidentiality. Think through a few examples so you can respond confidently during the chat!
