At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver high-quality therapeutic support for clients in need.
- Company: Join Waythrough, a leading mental health and social support charity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to improving mental health support.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your counselling skills.
- Qualifications: PGDip in counselling, substantial client experience, and registration with a professional body.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
As the Lead Counsellor within our alcohol and non-opiate support service, you will play a central role in ensuring the delivery of high quality, client-centred therapeutic support. You will work across our Dorset services to lead on the clinical integrity of our counselling provision, ensuring residents receive safe, effective, and compassionate support. You will oversee the full therapeutic pathway from assessment through to intervention, ensuring best practice, safeguarding, and quality standards are upheld across the service.
Responsibilities
- Provide clinical leadership for the counselling function, ensuring safe and effective therapeutic delivery.
- Recruit, supervise, and support counsellors and trainees working within the service.
- Offer expert guidance on complex and high risk cases, supporting decision making and escalation.
- Oversee the assessment and referral process to ensure timely, robust, and client-centred pathways.
- Lead on quality assurance for therapy provision, including monitoring, feedback, and auditing.
- Review and maintain clinical notes and ensure compliance with service policies and professional standards.
- Regularly review and update therapeutic policies, processes, and safeguarding practices.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with external agencies to support safe, coordinated client care.
Key Requirements
- A recognised PGDip (or equivalent) in counselling or psychotherapy.
- Substantial face-to-face client experience within substance use, mental health, or related support settings.
- Experience providing clinical supervision or supporting the development of other therapists.
- Registration with a PSA-accredited professional body (e.g., BACP, UKCP).
- A strong understanding of safeguarding practices and the ability to make confident clinical decisions.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and case-management skills.
- A commitment to delivering high quality, person-centred therapeutic services.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and, as such, it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Lead Counsellor - Wimborne, Dorset employer: Waythrough
Waythrough is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment in Wimborne, Dorset. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer comprehensive training and development opportunities, ensuring our staff are equipped to provide the highest quality of care. Our commitment to client-centred therapeutic support, combined with our status as one of England's largest mental health charities, makes us a rewarding place to work for those passionate about making a difference in people's lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Counsellor - Wimborne, Dorset
✨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 Waythrough. 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 Waythrough.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Counsellor - Wimborne, Dorset
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 Waythrough:Take some time to research Waythrough 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 Waythrough
✨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 Waythrough's values and approach.
