About the Role
Our client, a respected mental health services provider, is seeking an experienced and empathetic Senior Child Psychologist to lead their pediatric mental health services in **Queenstown, Eastern Cape**. This role is critical in providing comprehensive psychological assessments, diagnoses, and therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. You will be responsible for developing and implementing evidence-based treatment plans, supervising junior psychologists and interns, and contributing to the overall strategic direction of the department. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional clinical skills, a strong commitment to ethical practice, and a passion for improving the mental well-being of young people in the **Eastern Cape**. This is an on-site position requiring your presence in **Queenstown**.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct in-depth psychological assessments, including diagnostic interviews, psychometric testing, and behavioral observations.
- Develop and implement individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for children and adolescents addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and behavioral disorders.
- Provide individual, family, and group therapy utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities (e.g., CBT, DBT, play therapy).
- Supervise and mentor junior psychologists, interns, and trainees, providing clinical guidance and support.
- Collaborate with parents, caregivers, educators, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a coordinated approach to child care.
- Contribute to program development, policy formulation, and quality improvement initiatives within the mental health department.
- Maintain accurate, confidential, and timely client records in accordance with professional and legal standards.
- Conduct workshops and provide psycho-education to parents, schools, and community groups on child mental health topics.
- Stay current with advancements in child psychology and therapeutic techniques through continuous professional development.
- Champion a trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach to mental health care within the **Queenstown** community.
Requirements
- Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology.
- Registration as a Clinical Psychologist with the relevant South African health professions council (HPCSA).
- A minimum of 6 years of post-qualification clinical experience working with children and adolescents.
- Extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments and providing a variety of psychotherapies.
- Demonstrated experience in clinical supervision and team leadership.
- In-depth knowledge of child development, psychopathology, and relevant diagnostic criteria (DSM-5/ICD-11).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
- Outstanding interpersonal, communication, and report-writing abilities.
- Proficiency in ethical decision-making and maintaining client confidentiality.
- Experience working within the **Eastern Cape** healthcare system is advantageous.
- A commitment to promoting mental health equity and accessibility in **Queenstown**.
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Opportunities for leadership and professional development.
- Access to a supportive and collaborative multidisciplinary team.
- Generous paid time off and study leave.
- Contribution towards professional development and conference attendance.
- Relocation assistance may be considered.