At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide high-quality psychotherapy for patients with complex emotional needs.
- Company: Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, a leader in mental health care.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and involvement in diverse community projects.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while working with a compassionate team.
- Qualifications: Experience in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and Compassion Focused Therapy required.
The predicted salary is between 57528 - 64750 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and reflective Psychotherapist with a strong interest in psychodynamic working to join our established Specialist Psychotherapy Service at BSMHFT. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the delivery and ongoing development of high-quality therapeutic services for patients with complex attachment trauma and enduring emotional needs. We are keen to recruit a candidate with proven experience in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy or psychodynamically informed practice, alongside specialist training and substantial clinical experience in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). You will join a well-established, tertiary-level psychodynamic service with over 30 years’ experience supporting individuals with complex and enduring emotional difficulties. The service is multidisciplinary and committed to providing compassionate, psychologically informed care. We also support staff across the Trust through supervision, consultation, reflective practice, and training in psychodynamic thinking.
We are looking for someone who:
- Has strong training and experience in Compassion Focused Therapy
- Holds additional qualification and/or demonstrable experience in delivering psychodynamic psychotherapy
- Can actively contribute to both established psychodynamic work and the development of compassion-focused interventions within the service
The role offers opportunities to deliver both individual and group therapy.
A psychodynamic approach underpins all of our work within SPS. We provide long-term individual and group psychotherapy (often over several years), including:
- A Compassion Focused Group psychotherapy programme
- A therapeutic day programme
- Analytic group work
- Individual psychotherapy
The post holder will also contribute to:
- Supervision, reflective practice, consultation, and training across the Trust
- Service development initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and quality for our diverse Birmingham population
You will be supported through regular clinical supervision, reflective practice, and line management. The post is based at Callum Lodge, Winson Green, with occasional travel to other sites. There are also opportunities to contribute to Trust-wide projects and to participate in the on-call rota, if desired.
Welcome to Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust. Our 4000 clinical and support staff help us to improve mental health wellbeing and meet the needs of the 70,000 people we serve each year. We provide a range of mental healthcare services across Birmingham and Solihull, as well as specialised services nationally. We also offer medical, nursing and psychology training and are proud of our international reputation for both research and innovation. Our population is culturally diverse, characterised in places by high levels of deprivation which create an increasing demand for our services and a necessity for us to make sure everyone can access the help they need. We are a team of compassionate, inclusive and committed people working together to provide excellent care to support our community. If you are looking for a place to belong, where you can make a real difference to people’s lives, join our team where our warm welcome is waiting for you.
For further information about the main responsibilities please view the attached job description and person specification.
Qualifications:
- Has relevant Training/Qualifications as outlined in personal specification
- Registered with the BPC/UKCP or equivalent as a Psychodynamic or Psychoanalytic Adult Psychotherapist, and evidence of continuing professional development as required by the BPC/UKCP/ EQUIVALENT registration body
Experience:
- Has relevant experience, knowledge and skills as outlined in personal specification
Our Trust is committed to treating individuals fairly and ensuring they have the same opportunities to fulfil their potential, even if this means doing things differently for different people sometimes. We are working hard to ensure our workforce reflects the diversity within Birmingham and Solihull and that our services meet the needs of all diverse service users and carers. The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
As part of our safe recruitment practice pre-employment checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. As part of the selection process you may be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, however all cases of criminal record history are dealt with on a case by case basis. Please note, if applicable for your role you will be required to cover the cost of your DBS certificate. This will be deducted from your salary over 3 months. You will also be required to sign up to the DBS Update Service before commencement with the Trust. The Trust will reimburse this. You will be contractually obliged to maintain your subscription. All successful applicants will be required to complete the Trust’s induction programme. The Fundamental (Statutory and Mandatory) training will be in an e-learning format. You will be required to complete training modules online (approx. 9-14 hours depending on post) by the end of your second week with us.
If you are successful at the shortlisting stage of the recruitment process we may contact you via email to advise you of the interview details. Please ensure you access your email account from which you applied regularly once the position has closed. Our selection process may involve more than one interview or assessment.
Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the United Kingdom (UK) are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. However, please ensure that you check if this role meets the eligibility criteria for sponsorship. Non UK /Republic of Ireland candidates wishing to apply can self-assess the likelihood of obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship here Browse: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). The minimum salary threshold for a Health and Social Care is £25,000 and for the Skilled Worker route is £38,700. If the starting salary for this role is below this, we will not be able to provide sponsorship. Relocation expenses may be reimbursed subject to eligibility. The policy provides for reimbursement up to £8,000.
Please note - if you are applying for a role within Police custody, due to Police Vetting requirements you must have been a UK resident for the last years.
You must have appropriate UK professional registration. This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Band 8a Psychotherapist - ICCR in Birmingham employer: Transformation Unit
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional development. With opportunities for growth within the NHS framework, staff can engage in meaningful work that directly impacts patient care in a collaborative environment across two dynamic hospital sites. Join us to be part of a transformative healthcare journey that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Band 8a Psychotherapist - ICCR in Birmingham
✨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 Transformation Unit. 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 Transformation Unit.
We think you need these skills to ace Band 8a Psychotherapist - ICCR in Birmingham
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 Transformation Unit:Take some time to research Transformation Unit 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 Transformation Unit
✨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 Transformation Unit's values and approach.