At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide brief counselling to students facing mental health challenges and conduct assessments.
- Company: Join Northumbria University, a top-ranked institution dedicated to student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, generous holiday entitlement, and excellent pension schemes.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a dynamic, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Recognised counselling qualification and experience with diverse student backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
With a recognised professional counselling qualification and the ability to work within a multi-disciplinary support setting, you will offer brief, time-limited counselling to students experiencing mental health and emotional difficulties. You must be able to work within a short-term therapeutic model (usually up to six sessions), as well as within a framework of brief assessment and intervention. Knowledge or experience of single session or session by session therapy would be beneficial. You will have significant post-qualifying experience, including working with issues common to the client group of students – such as transition, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, low mood, procrastination and/or exam panic.
We are especially keen to hear from practitioners with experience of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and/or underrepresented social groups. We particularly encourage applications from practitioners who identify as being from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, as these groups are currently under-represented in our team, although all appointments will be made on merit. This is predominantly a face-to-face, campus-based role. Support is delivered to students face to face, by telephone and online via Microsoft Teams. To keep our services accessible to students, you will be expected to work one late shift per week (12pm–8pm).
Daily responsibilities include:
- Providing brief, time-limited counselling to students experiencing mental health and emotional difficulties, usually over up to six sessions
- Carrying out brief triage assessments and interventions, which may include single-session work in the format of a wellbeing plan.
- Following the team's crisis and risk assessment protocols and respond to urgent cases
- Making internal and external referrals, as required
- Contributing to the wider work of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Team, promoting a whole university approach to mental health.
- Contributing to developing approaches aligned to sector best practice
- Delivering support face to face, by telephone and online via Microsoft Teams
- Helping improve student retention and the wider student experience
The successful candidate will hold a professionally recognised counselling qualification (for example, a postgraduate Diploma or Master's) in counselling, psychotherapy or counselling psychology and should also be a member of a recognised professional body, such as BACP or UKCP. Preferably accredited or be actively working towards accreditation.
For an informal chat about the role contact Ellen Smith: Head of Student Mental Health and Wellbeing.
To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply Now'. Your application should include a covering letter and a CV.
Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. Discover more about us. With over 37,000 students from 140+ countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.
Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding a Silver Athena Swan in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality, a bronze Race Equality Charter Award and we are a Disability Confident Leader. We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers.
The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process. Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy.
Counsellor (SLW) in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: University of Northumbria
Northumbria University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises safety and security while fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. With a commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive benefits such as flexible working hours, generous holiday entitlement, and excellent pension schemes, all within the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the student experience and be part of a community that values academic excellence and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Counsellor (SLW) in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 University of Northumbria. 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 University of Northumbria.
We think you need these skills to ace Counsellor (SLW) in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 University of Northumbria:Take some time to research University of Northumbria 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 University of Northumbria
✨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 University of Northumbria's values and approach.
