At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver a professional counselling service for individuals facing substance use challenges.
- Company: Waythrough, an equal opportunities employer committed to community support.
- Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension scheme, life assurance, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while leading a passionate team.
- Qualifications: Qualified counsellor with experience in therapeutic interventions and supervision.
The predicted salary is between 41130 - 55646 £ per year.
- Lead Counsellor
- Working
- Contract
- Type: Permanent
Salary: £41,130 – £55,646 (FTE £28,791.00 – £38,950.10 pro rata) Full UK driving licence and access to own vehicle required for travel between sites where required.
We are seeking an experienced and passionate Lead Counsellor to lead, coordinate and deliver a safe, professional counselling service for individuals impacted by substance use and related challenges.
This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified counsellor who is committed to providing high‑quality therapeutic support while leading and developing a counselling service.
The successful candidate will combine direct client work with leadership responsibilities, ensuring the service operates in line with professional, ethical and safeguarding standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Clinical Practice
- Manage a small counselling caseload, providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions.
- Conduct assessments and develop appropriate treatment and support plans.
- Maintain accurate, confidential and timely client records.
- Ensure clients receive safe, person-centred and effective support.
- Monitor client progress and evaluate outcomes.
- Leadership & Service Coordination
- Lead and coordinate the day‑to‑day delivery of the counselling service.
- Ensure counselling provision meets organisational objectives and service standards.
- Support the development and continuous improvement of therapeutic services.
- Promote a culture of reflective practice, learning and professional excellence.
- Contribute to service reporting, quality assurance and audit activities.
- Supervision & Staff Development
- Provide support, guidance and supervision to volunteer and trainee counsellors.
- Assist with placement opportunities and the development of counselling trainees.
- Support wider staff development by increasing psychological awareness and understanding across teams.
- Promote best practice in relation to trauma‑informed approaches, mental health and therapeutic engagement.
- Safeguarding & Governance
- Ensure counselling practice aligns with BACP, UKCP and organisational standards.
- Maintain a strong understanding of safeguarding legislation and procedures.
- Respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns and risk issues.
- Ensure ethical, legal and professional requirements are consistently met.
- Partnership Working
- Work collaboratively with colleagues, partners and external agencies.
- Support integrated care pathways for individuals affected by substance use and associated challenges.
- Represent the counselling service at relevant meetings and forums where appropriate.
Person Specification
- Qualified Counsellor, accredited or working towards accreditation with BACP, UKCP or equivalent recognised professional body.
- Significant experience delivering counselling interventions to adults.
- Experience supporting individuals affected by substance use, trauma, mental health difficulties or related issues.
- Experience providing supervision, mentoring or support to trainee or volunteer counsellors.
- Strong understanding of safeguarding principles and risk management.
- Knowledge of professional and ethical counselling frameworks.
- Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
What We Offer
- 27 days’ annual leave, rising to 32 after 1 year (plus bank holidays)
- Pension scheme with 4.5% employer contribution, matched up to 6.5%
- Life assurance (3× annual salary)
- Enhanced sick pay and family‑friendly pay
- Birthday leave and the option to buy up to 5 extra days’ annual leave
- Professional fee reimbursement for relevant qualifications
- 24/7 online GP access and Employee Assistance Programme
- Recognition and long service awards via our Way to Go and Aspirations portals
- £500 Recommend a Friend bonus
- Cycle to Work scheme and Credit Union membership
- Discounts via Blue Light Card, Charity Discounts, Extras and Tickets for Good
- Free will writing service and wellbeing initiatives throughout the year
- Equal Opportunities
Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support.
We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme – all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.
If you need adjustments or support to apply, please email our recruitment team: recruitmentteam@waythrough. org. uk
#J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Counsellor in Barnsley
✨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 Recovery Focus. 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 Recovery Focus.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Counsellor in Barnsley
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 Recovery Focus:Take some time to research Recovery Focus 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 Recovery Focus
✨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 Recovery Focus's values and approach.
