At a Glance
- Tasks: Train as a High Intensity Therapist, providing impactful CBT interventions to clients.
- Company: Join Vita Health Group, a leading provider of mental health services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working, and comprehensive support for your growth.
- Other info: Dynamic training environment with opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in mental health while gaining valuable qualifications.
- Qualifications: Experience in mental health and a passion for helping others required.
The predicted salary is between 39227 - 39227 £ per year.
The following content displays a map of the job's location - Leicester.
Job Reference: vitahealth/TP/12448/4173
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Fixed Term
Salary: £39,227 per annum
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Location: Coventry University/Leicester
Closing Date: 26/08/2026
Job Category: Clinical
Region / Division: The Role:
Are you an experienced mental health professional or social care worker with a recognised professional qualification working in a mental health setting? Do you meet the KSA requirements as set out by the BABCP? Have you considered training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and getting paid to do it? If so, our Trainee High Intensity Therapist programme could be the role for you!
Getting to know Us: Hello! We are Vita Health Group – we are one of the lead providers of Talking Therapies services within the North East, Midlands, South East and South West. We are super proud of the work we do at Step 3 and see the life-changing impact of our practice every single day! We really do practice what we preach here at Vita, with a company-wide focus on staff wellbeing, a flexible and creative approach to work and a real culture of openness and support.
The Role: We are looking for aspiring Cognitive Behavioural Therapists to join our NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) Talking Therapies Service as Trainee High Intensity Therapists (HITs) in the January 2027 cohort at Coventry University. Please note these are fixed term positions for the duration of the course. After completing the training and becoming a qualified HIT, there may be an opportunity to apply for a permanent HIT post and contribute to an experienced and innovative service.
A typical working week includes 3 days of clinical practice with the service and 2 days at University. University days will be hybrid training with a combination of remote and face‑to‑face teaching. Whilst your clinical practice is likely to include some remote working, you will be required to attend one of the service area offices for part of the week. You will provide High Intensity CBT interventions recommended by NICE to clients with moderate to severe common mental health disorders. During your training you will receive weekly supervision by both the workplace and the University.
Getting to know You: The Trainee position is aimed at mental health professionals who have some experience in CBT and who continue to work in a mental health environment. Applications are invited from qualified Clinical or Counselling Psychological Therapists, Mental Health Nurses, Psychotherapists, Counsellors, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers and PWPs (with two years post qualification experience). Applicants without recognised and accredited core mental health professional training (such as Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners or Psychotherapists and Counsellors without UKCP or BACP accreditation) are eligible to apply but must be able to complete a KSA portfolio.
- Core Professional training or qualification, or able to demonstrate at interview that you meet the KSA requirements set by the BABCP.
- Undergraduate degree or equivalent in a discipline connected to mental health (or ability to study at third year undergraduate degree level).
- Membership of the BABCP (from the time that the course commences).
- Availability to attend university as required–teaching will be a mixture of face to face and remote.
- Experience of working in mental health services, including risk management.
- Experience of working in Primary Care/IAPT services.
- Evidence of foundation level or sustained CPD in CBT.
- Evidence of supervised CBT practice.
Other Requirements:
- Shortlisted applicants must be available to attend online academic screening interviews for the university on 23rd September 2026.
- Shortlisted applicants must be available to attend online interviews held on 15th October 2026. All interviews will be held remotely via Microsoft Teams.
- Applicants must be available to commence the role and attend service induction on 11th January 2027 with VHG (held remotely).
- Following this, the first day of induction with Coventry University will be on 18th January 2027.
- All essential equipment will be provided.
- For those successful candidates completing a KSA, the date for submission is 11th January 2027.
- A Disclosure and Barring check (DBS) will be required by the service for appointment to post.
- Applicants who have completed an NHS or HEE funded psychological professions training programme within the last two years are not eligible to apply.
- Only those with the right to work in the UK without restriction and eligible for Home Fee status can be recruited.
- All candidates who hold a visa should ensure that their visa permits the right to work and study in the UK.
About Us: As part of Spire Healthcare, we’re proud to build on a legacy of improving lives for over 30 years and continue to deliver primary care physical and mental health services accessed through the NHS, via employer-funded care and at our network of private clinics.
Working here: We are an award-winning employer regularly recognised at industry events and our latest employee survey revealed the top reasons for working here as:
- Supportive teams and managers
- A positive and inclusive culture
- Strong well‑being and mental health support
- Trust, autonomy and flexibility
We invest in your growth with frequent career progression opportunities and development initiatives including mentoring, secondments, management training and regular clinical CPD webinars. You will enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options and a comprehensive benefits package.
Equality Diversity & Inclusion: We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer dedicated to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We actively support a range of initiatives including positive action through Ethnicity and Gender Matters initiatives. If you need any adjustments or assistance during the recruitment process we will be happy to help.
Additional information: All applicants must be legally entitled to work in the UK and subject to a DBS check at offer stage. Your application data is handled securely in accordance to UK GDPR guidelines. We may close jobs to new applications earlier than the original stated closing date.
Trainee High Intensity Therapist - Coventry University/Leicester employer: Vita Health Group Limited
Vita Health Group Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic hybrid role as a GP Liaison & Referrals Strategist in the vibrant BNSSG region. With a strong focus on employee development and a supportive team culture, we empower our staff to build meaningful relationships within the community while enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid work environment. Join us to make a real impact in mental health care and grow your career in a collaborative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee High Intensity Therapist - Coventry University/Leicester
✨Get Involved in Community Events
Join local mental health events, workshops, or awareness campaigns. You’ll not only learn more about the field, but these gatherings are great places to meet professionals already working in therapy or counselling—who knows, they might even have tips for landing a trainee position!
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re in uni, don’t forget about career services—they're goldmines for finding trainee placements in therapy and counselling. They might host job fairs or have connections with local organisations that are looking for trainees. Make the most of it!
✨Show Off Your Passion Online
Create a blog or use social media to share your thoughts on therapy techniques, mental health topics, or your learning journey. This makes you more visible to potential employers like Vita Health Group Limited, showcasing your enthusiasm for the field.
✨Volunteer for Experience
Look for volunteer opportunities at local mental health charities or organisations. Hands-on experience is invaluable and can sometimes lead directly to trainee roles. Plus, it adds weight to your application when you go for positions like Trainee High Intensity Therapist - Coventry University/Leicester with Vita Health Group Limited!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee High Intensity Therapist - Coventry University/Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Empathy Skills:In therapy and counselling, empathy is key. When crafting your CV and cover letter, show how you've developed this skill through your experiences, whether that’s from volunteer work, personal experiences, or relevant coursework. It’s all about demonstrating that you have the ability to connect with and understand others.
Showcase Relevant Academic Credentials:For a trainee role in therapy and counselling, your educational background matters a lot. Make sure to list your degrees, relevant coursework, and any certifications you have (like a certificate in counselling skills). If you’ve done any projects or placements, mention those too as they show you’re serious about your career path.
Express Your Passion for Learning:As a trainee, showing that you’re keen to learn and grow is crucial. Your cover letter should reflect your motivation for the role at Vita Health Group Limited and your eagerness to develop your skills further. Talk about how you’re dedicated to evolving in the field and contributing to positive outcomes with clients.
Tailor Your Application to Vita Health Group Limited:Each place has its vibes and focus areas, so take some time to understand what makes Vita Health Group Limited unique. In your application, highlight why you resonate with their approach to therapy. This not only personalises your application but also shows that you’ve done your homework – something we can totally appreciate!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vita Health Group Limited
✨Showcase Your Empathy and Listening Skills
In the therapy and counselling world, empathy is key. During your interview for the trainee position at Vita Health Group Limited, be ready to share examples that demonstrate how you've effectively listened and responded to others' needs. This could be from your studies or any relevant experiences!
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
Often, interviews for counselling roles include role-play exercises to assess your practical skills. Be ready to engage in a mock counselling session during the interview. Practising a few common scenarios beforehand will help you feel more comfortable and confident!
✨Passion for Learning is Key
As a trainee, they’re likely looking for someone enthusiastic about developing their skills. Be sure to discuss your motivations for entering the therapy field and how you're keen on learning new techniques, therapies, and therapies. This will show that you're committed to your own growth and client care.
✨Discuss Your Theoretical Knowledge
Even as a trainee, they’ll expect a solid foundation in counselling theories. Brush up on key theories and be prepared to discuss how you might apply them practically. This shows you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the framework guiding your future practice at Vita Health Group Limited.
