At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide therapeutic support to children and young people, helping them thrive emotionally.
- Company: Join Ormiston Families, a leader in children's mental health services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive supervision.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while advancing your therapeutic career.
- Qualifications: Relevant qualifications and experience in therapy or counselling.
The predicted salary is between 27666 - 34468 £ per year.
The post advertised is a full-time, permanent position, working 37.5 hours per week. Appointments will be made at entry points to our pay spine points, either £27,666.42 and £34,467.72 dependant on qualifications, experience and professional registration. Practitioners appointed to the lower entry point will receive appropriate supervision and support to achieve the competencies required for progression to the higher entry point, where applicable.
The base for this post is our Norwich Hub. Travel across Norfolk and Waveney is required.
Ormiston Families’ Supporting Smiles Children and Young People’s Mental Health Service is excited to invite applications from therapists looking to further their therapeutic careers. We offer great benefits.
Our Supporting Smiles service provides professional mental health support to children and young people through our Therapeutic Pathway for 4–13-year-olds and 5–18-year-olds with our Practitioner CBT-informed pathway. Whether residing in Norfolk or Waveney or registered with a Norfolk or Waveney GP, we’re here to offer therapeutic support to meet children and young people’s needs.
At Supporting Smiles, we believe in a needs-led approach, and our service name, “Supporting Smiles,” was co-created with input from the children and families we support. Our holistic mental health and wellbeing support service encompasses the expertise of our therapeutic practitioners, counsellors, and children’s wellbeing practitioners.
Convenience and accessibility are key to our therapeutic support. We offer sessions in various venues across your local community, including schools and family hub sites. If accessing our venues poses a challenge, don’t hesitate to reach out, and we’ll work together to find a solution that suits your needs.
As a member of Norfolk & Waveney’s Children and Young People’s Alliance, we’re part of an integrated mental health service network dedicated to THRIVE principles: Getting Advice, Getting Help, Getting More Help, and Risk Support. Alongside partners like The Benjamin Foundation, Norfolk & Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Norfolk County Council, and Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust, we’re committed to providing comprehensive support to children and young people aged 0-25, ensuring their mental health needs are met every step of the way.
Closing date for applications: 9am, Wednesday 26th August 2026
Safeguarding and DBS requirements for your role: Ormiston Families is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
We are an equal opportunities employer; we value diversity and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Play Therapist – Supporting Smiles in Norwich employer: Ormiston
Ormiston Families is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families across Essex. With a strong emphasis on community support, our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth and development, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered. Join us to be part of a passionate team that prioritises well-being and offers unique opportunities to make a difference in the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Play Therapist – Supporting Smiles in Norwich
✨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 Ormiston. 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 Ormiston.
We think you need these skills to ace Play Therapist – Supporting Smiles in Norwich
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 Ormiston:Take some time to research Ormiston 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 Ormiston
✨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 Ormiston's values and approach.
