Counsellor

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Birmingham is seeking an experienced Counsellor to join their dynamic student counselling team. You will provide short-term therapeutic counselling to students facing emotional difficulties such as anxiety and depression, and contribute to enhancing their overall experience. An accredited qualification and three years of relevant post-qualification experience are necessary for this in-person role.

Benefits

Generous annual leave scheme

Training and development opportunities

Discounted on-site gym and pool membership

Qualifications

• Accredited Psychotherapist or Counsellor.
• Three years of post-qualification supervised practice.
• BACP, UKCP/HPC, BABCP, or BPS accreditation.

Responsibilities

• Provide short-term therapeutic counselling to students.
• Conduct risk assessments for students in need.
• Carry out well-being activities and support the drop-in desk.

Education

Level 7 or Master's (MSc) qualification

Job description

Join Our Dynamic Student Counselling Team at Aston University!

Are you an accredited Psychotherapist or Counsellor with a Level 7 or Master's (MSc) qualification and a passion for supporting student well-being? Aston University is looking for an experienced and culturally competent professional to join our thriving Counselling Service. If you have three years of post-qualification supervised practice and current BACP, UKCP/HPC, BABCP, or BPS accreditation and extensive experience providing brief counselling, preferably within a higher education institution or a similar fast-paced environment - we want to hear from you!

As a key member of our student-facing Counselling Service, you'll provide short-term, culturally competent therapeutic counselling (typically 6 sessions) to students navigating a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties. These can include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, self-harm, and the unique pressures of university life. You'll join a vibrant and experienced team, working collaboratively to deliver individual interventions, conduct risk assessments, and respond effectively to students in need.

We're looking for someone enthusiastic about contributing beyond one-on-one sessions. You'll have the opportunity to passionately deliver well-being activities and support our drop-in desk, enhancing the overall student experience. Given current student demand, this is a predominantly in-person role on campus, requiring year-round presence.

The Counselling Service is an integral part of Student Wellbeing, which also encompasses our Wellbeing and Chaplaincy teams. We are further situated within the larger Student Life directorate, working alongside Mental Health & Welfare, Disability & Neurodiversity Support, and Student Engagement and Advice Services to provide holistic support to our diverse student body.

We are particularly keen to expand our expertise in the following areas, complementing your essential qualifications:

Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy/Counselling, with a strong focus on:

Rape and sexual abuse/violence

Trauma, loss, and bereavement

Self-harm and suicidal ideation

Cultural sensitivities

Spiritual and faith-based issues

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of students, helping them thrive academically and personally. If you're a dedicated professional ready to contribute to a supportive and dynamic university environment, we encourage you to apply!

What we offer:

Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
Excellent training and development opportunities.
A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
Great family friendly policies.
On site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found on the university website.

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess your eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting.