Assistant Psychologist in Colchester inColchester PUBLISHED WED 19 MAR 2025 Jump to job information section
Band 4
Job description
Job Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated psychology graduate to work as an Assistant Psychologist (band 4) in adult community psychological services across North East Essex. The post will be based across the North East Essex specialist community mental health teams (Colchester and Tendring). This is an excellent opportunity to be part of dynamic and dedicated services and to gain experience of Applied Psychology in the NHS and of working in integrated MDTs. The contract is 12 month fixed term.
In your application please tell us what makes Adult Community services a place that you are keen to work.
Main duties of the job
The role centres on supporting qualified staff in the running of adult community psychological services. The post holder will assist the qualified psychological services team members in the provision of group interventions and, under supervision and with supportive guidance, provide manualised specific one to one interventions to users of the service.
There will also be an emphasis on securing outcomes from people that are accessing the service and contributing to associated data reporting as part of a quality and accountability framework. The post is embedded in the Specialist Community Mental Health teams (SMHTs) and as such the assistant psychologist will gain experiences of assessment, formulation development, and intervention planning through working with qualified psychologists and clinical associates in psychology, as well as MDT working. There are multiple opportunities to access reflective practice and mentoring from colleagues.
Working for our organisation
EPUT are looking for motivated staff who shares our Trust values of Care, Learn and Empower. In return, EPUT can offer you a range of benefits and development including;
Join our Staff bank
What is Staff Bank?
Our EPUT NHS staff bank is an entity managed by the trust that hires clinical and non-clinical healthcare professionals to take on shifts at our trust hospitals and community settings. Here at EPUT we maintain our own bank of specialist staff to ensure that we are able offer safe and effective care at all times.
Please note - staff who are formally at risk within the organisation will be given priority in securing alternative employment. Should it come to light that a post being advertised by the Trust is considered ‘suitable alternative employment’ to an individual who is at risk, the recruiting manager will be advised and the post will be withdrawn from NHS Jobs.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Applications for this role should be written by the applicant. If artificial intelligence (AI) programmes are used then the application may be rejected due to this document being an important part of the assessment process. This does not prevent applicants seeking appropriate support with applications should they need to for the purposes of any declared disability.
Important Professional References
Make sure that as a part of your application you have professional references with business contract information covering your last three year employment history. We are unable to accept personal or character references.
As a newly appointed employee you are responsible for incurring the cost of your initial DBS check relevant to your post, the amount will be deducted from your first salary with the Trust.
Applications for Job Share are positively welcomed.
Equal Opportunities Employer
Our Trust is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We particularly welcome applications from people with experience of using mental health services. We also hold the Disability two tick symbol and have made the pledge to commit to employing more people with learning disabilities, we encourage people with a disability to apply. If you require this application form in another format i.e. Braille or audio tape etc, please contact the Recruitment Department on or email and we can arrange for this to be dispatched to you.
The Trust has the right to expire vacancies prior to the closing date if they so wish. The Trust makes every attempt to contact all applicants and we strongly advise that you check the email account which is registered with NHS Jobs regularly, we would advise however due to the high number of applications we receive that if you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to robust safer recruitment processes.
Covid Vaccination
Although Covid vaccinations are no longer a mandatory requirement within the NHS we continue to encourage and support the vaccination uptake as this remains the best line of defence against Covid19. The safety of our staff and patients is a top priority for us at EPUT.
If you would like to book a Covid vaccination or would like more information please contact us by emailing .
We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated psychology graduate to work as an Assistant Psychologist (band 4) in adult community psychological services across North East Essex. The post will be based across the North East Essex specialist community mental health teams (Colchester and Tendring). This is an excellent opportunity to be part of dynamic and dedicated services and to gain experience of Applied Psychology in the NHS and of working in integrated MDTs. The contract is 12 month fixed term.
In your application please tell us what makes Adult Community services a place that you are keen to work.
Main duties of the job
The role centres on supporting qualified staff in the running of adult community psychological services. The post holder will assist the qualified psychological services team members in the provision of group interventions and, under supervision and with supportive guidance, provide manualised specific one to one interventions to users of the service.
There will also be an emphasis on securing outcomes from people that are accessing the service and contributing to associated data reporting as part of a quality and accountability framework. The post is embedded in the Specialist Community Mental Health teams (SMHTs) and as such the assistant psychologist will gain experiences of assessment, formulation development, and intervention planning through working with qualified psychologists and clinical associates in psychology, as well as MDT working. There are multiple opportunities to access reflective practice and mentoring from colleagues.
Working for our organisation
EPUT are looking for motivated staff who shares our Trust values of Care, Learn and Empower. In return, EPUT can offer you a range of benefits and development including;
- Season Ticket Loans
- NHS discounts for staff
- Excellent Training facilities and opportunities
- Buying and Selling annual leave scheme
- The opportunity to work bank shifts and expand knowledge and experience in other areas
- Salary Sacrifice schemes including lease cars and Cycle to Work
- Day One Flexible Employer
Join our Staff bank
What is Staff Bank?
Our EPUT NHS staff bank is an entity managed by the trust that hires clinical and non-clinical healthcare professionals to take on shifts at our trust hospitals and community settings. Here at EPUT we maintain our own bank of specialist staff to ensure that we are able offer safe and effective care at all times.
Please note - staff who are formally at risk within the organisation will be given priority in securing alternative employment. Should it come to light that a post being advertised by the Trust is considered ‘suitable alternative employment’ to an individual who is at risk, the recruiting manager will be advised and the post will be withdrawn from NHS Jobs.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Applications for this role should be written by the applicant. If artificial intelligence (AI) programmes are used then the application may be rejected due to this document being an important part of the assessment process. This does not prevent applicants seeking appropriate support with applications should they need to for the purposes of any declared disability.
Important Professional References
Make sure that as a part of your application you have professional references with business contract information covering your last three year employment history. We are unable to accept personal or character references.
As a newly appointed employee you are responsible for incurring the cost of your initial DBS check relevant to your post, the amount will be deducted from your first salary with the Trust.
Applications for Job Share are positively welcomed.
Equal Opportunities Employer
Our Trust is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We particularly welcome applications from people with experience of using mental health services. We also hold the Disability two tick symbol and have made the pledge to commit to employing more people with learning disabilities, we encourage people with a disability to apply. If you require this application form in another format i.e. Braille or audio tape etc, please contact the Recruitment Department on or email and we can arrange for this to be dispatched to you.
The Trust has the right to expire vacancies prior to the closing date if they so wish. The Trust makes every attempt to contact all applicants and we strongly advise that you check the email account which is registered with NHS Jobs regularly, we would advise however due to the high number of applications we receive that if you have not heard from us within three weeks of the closing date your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to robust safer recruitment processes.
Covid Vaccination
Although Covid vaccinations are no longer a mandatory requirement within the NHS we continue to encourage and support the vaccination uptake as this remains the best line of defence against Covid19. The safety of our staff and patients is a top priority for us at EPUT.
If you would like to book a Covid vaccination or would like more information please contact us by emailing .
Not sure?
If you're interested in this role but you have questions or you're not yet ready to apply, then please book a quick call with us and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have and tell you more about the role.
If you're interested in this role but you have questions or you're not yet ready to apply, then please book a quick call with us and we'd be happy to answer any questions you have and tell you more about the role.
Requirements
See the job description for full role requirements.
Benefits
Benefits are provided by the employer and will be confirmed during your application.
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More information related to this job opportunity, from jobsincare:
Useful skills for an Assistant Psychologist:
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To work as an Assistant Psychologist in the UK, several skills and qualifications are generally expected. While specific requirements may vary by employer, here are some key skills and attributes that are typically valuable for this role:
1. Educational Background
- Relevant Degree: A degree in psychology or a closely related field, typically at least at the upper second-class level (2:1) is usually required.
- Knowledge of Psychological Principles: Understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and statistics.
2. Experience
- Work Experience: Previous experience in a psychological or clinical setting is often beneficial. This could include volunteering, internships, or paid roles that involve direct contact with clients.
- Research Experience: Experience in conducting or assisting with psychological research can be advantageous.
3. Communication Skills
- Verbal Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with clients, colleagues, and other professionals.
- Written Communication: Strong writing skills for documenting assessments, reports, and research findings.
4. Interpersonal Skills
- Empathy and Rapport Building: Ability to empathize with clients and build strong therapeutic relationships.
- Active Listening: Skill in listening to clients’ concerns and responding appropriately.
5. Analytical Skills
- Critical Thinking: Ability to analyze complex information, assess clients' needs, and contribute to treatment plans.
- Problem-Solving: Aptitude for addressing challenges and developing effective solutions.
6. Organizational Skills
- Time Management: Ability to manage time efficiently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Record Keeping: Strong attention to detail in maintaining accurate and confidential records.
7. Teamwork and Collaboration
- Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals, including psychologists, therapists, and healthcare staff.
8. Sensitivity and Professionalism
- Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality and professionalism.
- Awareness of ethical considerations in psychology.
9. Adaptability and Resilience
- Capacity to adapt to changing circumstances and manage stressful situations effectively.
10. Continued Professional Development
- A commitment to ongoing learning and development within the field of psychology, including engaging in relevant training and workshops.
Additional Considerations:
- Membership in Professional Bodies: While not always required, registration with organizations like the British Psychological Society (BPS) may enhance your qualifications.
- Specialized Skills: Depending on the specific area the role is focused on (e.g., clinical, educational, forensic psychology), additional specialized skills may be relevant.
inColchester
51.89592742919922 0.8918740153312683 Colchester, England, United Kingdom 
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