Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner - Recruitment RoadshowinOxfordinOxfordPUBLISHED FRI 3 MAY 2024

To work as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) in the UK, you typically need a combination of academic qualifications, skills, and certain personal qualities. Here are some key skills and qualifications required for this role:

Academic Qualifications:

1. Relevant Educational Background: A degree in psychology or a related field is usually required. Some PWPs hold postgraduate qualifications in clinical psychology, counseling, or mental health.

2. Training in IAPT: Completing a training program approved by the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) initiative is typically necessary. This can be a certificate or diploma course in low-intensity cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Key Skills:

1. Assessment Skills: Ability to conduct assessments of patients’ psychological wellbeing and understand their mental health needs.

2. Therapeutic Skills: Proficiency in low-intensity CBT techniques and other evidence-based therapeutic interventions.

3. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with patients and document assessments and progress.

4. Empathy and Compassion: Ability to build rapport and a trusting relationship with patients, showing understanding and empathy.

5. Problem-Solving Skills: Capability to help patients develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills to manage their mental health challenges.

6. Organizational Skills: Effectiveness in managing caseloads, scheduling appointments, and keeping accurate records.

7. Cultural Competence: Awareness and understanding of diverse backgrounds and the ability to work sensitively with individuals from different cultures.

8. Teamwork: Capacity to work collaboratively with other health professionals, including psychologists, counselors, and general practitioners.

9. Resilience: Ability to manage stress and maintain professionalism in a potentially challenging environment.

Personal Qualities:

1. Patience: Being patient and supportive as patients work through their challenges.

2. Motivation for Helping: A genuine interest in supporting individuals in improving their mental health and wellbeing.

3. Open-Mindedness: Willingness to consider different perspectives and approaches to mental health.

4. Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt interventions based on individual patient needs and circumstances.

Additional Considerations:

- Experience in Mental Health: Previous experience working in a mental health setting, even in a voluntary role, is often advantageous.

- Continuing Professional Development: Commitment to ongoing training and learning to stay updated with the latest practices in psychological wellbeing and therapies.