Clinical/Counselling Psychologist or Psychological Therapist

CNWL NHS Foundation Trust; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable health trust in Milton Keynes is seeking a highly motivated Band 8a Clinical/Counselling Psychologist for a 12-month interim role. This position involves providing specialist psychological assessment and therapy to individuals with first-episode psychosis, along with supervision, group interventions, and research trial coordination. Candidates should possess Band 8a credentials or equivalent qualifications and ideally have experience with psychosis. Regular supervision and involvement in Trust-wide initiatives are included in the role.

Benefits

Regular supervision and support

Participation in psychological initiatives

Guidance from team members

Qualifications

• Experience in working with psychosis, especially first-episode cases.
• Ability to work autonomously within professional guidelines.
• Research and audit experience is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Deliver psychological assessment and therapy for first-episode psychosis.
• Supervise and train staff on psychological care.
• Coordinate with operational staff for user support.
• Act as Principal Investigator for research trials.
• Utilize research skills for service evaluation.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Adaptability

Education

Band 8a credentials or equivalent

Job description

Band 8a Clinical/Counselling Psychologist or Psychological Therapist

A Vacancy at Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust.

Overview

We are recruiting a highly motivated Senior Psychologist or Psychological Therapist for a 12‑month interim period. The successful candidate will provide specialist psychological assessment and treatment to individuals experiencing first‑episode psychosis. The role involves individual and group interventions, supervision, and liaison with research trials.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver specialist psychological assessment and therapy to service users with first‑episode psychosis.
• Provide supervision, advice, consultation and training to staff on psychological care for users and carers.
• Offer individual and group interventions and support service users to continue work or study.
• Liaise with operational staff and external agencies to coordinate benefits, finances and housing support.
• Act as Principal Investigator for research trials (e.g. virtual reality CBT) across universities.
• Work autonomously within professional guidelines and the Trust’s policies and procedures.
• Utilise research skills for audit, policy development and service evaluation within the team.

Qualifications and Experience

• Band 8a credentials or equivalent professional qualification.
• Experience working with psychosis, preferably first‑episode cases.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and adapt to team needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in research and audit is an advantage.

Benefits and Support

• Regular supervision and support from the Clinical Service Lead.
• Opportunity to participate in Trust‑wide psychological initiatives and events.
• Linked to support and guidance from other team members.

This advert closes on Sunday 11 Jan 2026.