At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide therapeutic support to children with complex medical needs through creative and play therapy.
- Company: Join The Maypole Project, a leading charity supporting families with complex medical needs for over 21 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, ongoing training, and the chance to make a real difference in lives.
- Other info: Initial base in Orpington with opportunities for remote work and travel.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a positive impact on children's emotional wellbeing and family support.
- Qualifications: Qualified therapist with experience in counselling and working with children or young people.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Background
The Maypole Project supports children and young people with complex medical needs and their families across the UK. Our vision is that all families with a child with complex medical needs will have access to our support from diagnosis, for as long as they need.
Our unique model provides emotional and wellbeing support through counselling and therapy services for parents/carers, siblings and other adults involved in caring for a young person with complex medical needs. We provide counselling and play therapy for children and young people with complex medical needs, a youth club, buddying and activity programmes which are also open to children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
The Maypole Project has been providing vital services to families for over 21 years and is in an exciting phase of development. We are recruiting a qualified and experienced Child Therapist to meet the growing demand for support, and to grow and extend our provision to meet the needs of more families who would benefit from our unique model of support.
Overall purpose:
To provide appropriate, professional and responsive therapeutic support to children (the child/ren who have complex medical needs and/or their siblings) in 1:1 sessions through the integration of counselling with therapeutic creative and play skills.
Role responsibilities:
Children, who have been assessed by an experienced member of the project’s counselling team, and with parental consent, will be referred on to the post holder who will:
· Work to The Maypole Project Model of Support for children and young people, providing therapeutic support through an integration of counselling with therapeutic creative and play with a caseload as agreed, relative to hours at a minimum of 5 clients per 7 hour working day.
- Undertake The Maypole Project mandatory in-house training (20 hours)
- Attend a training update session at least once per annum
- Contact the client’s parent/guardian organising an initial 1:1 meeting with them to talk through the issues their child faces and agree the time, location and frequency of sessions in line with Maypole Support office guidelines/room availability where applicable.
· Set up and clear away the therapy room that has been tailored to each individual client’s needs.
- Attend monthly group supervision (2 hours)
- Complete client notes and The Maypole Project paperwork as required
- Liaise with their Line manager or the Clinical Supervisor in case of questions/difficulties
- Follow The Maypole Project policies and guidelines including staff code of conduct at all times.
- Attend service-wide activities including family activity events and fundraising events
Support:
You will have support from our Children and Young People’s Therapies service manager for clinical oversight and day-to-day issues and a supervisor for Clinical advice/direction. Attendance at monthly Clinical Supervision is mandatory.
Location:
Initially based at our premises in Orpington with some remote provision and possible travel to schools, hospitals, hospices and clients’ homes.
Child and young person counsellor/therapist in London employer: The Maypole Project
The Maypole Project is an exceptional employer dedicated to supporting children and young people with complex medical needs, offering a nurturing work environment that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With over 21 years of experience, we provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring our therapists can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of families. Located in Orpington, our collaborative culture encourages innovation and community engagement, making it a rewarding place to develop your career in therapeutic support.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Child and young person counsellor/therapist in London
✨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 The Maypole Project. 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 The Maypole Project.
We think you need these skills to ace Child and young person counsellor/therapist in London
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 The Maypole Project:Take some time to research The Maypole Project 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 The Maypole Project
✨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 The Maypole Project's values and approach.
