At MedicsPro, our experienced team of professional recruiters ensures that we match qualified psychological therapist with locum and permanent roles worldwide.

We Offer:

• A dedicated compliance officer
• A market-leading referral scheme
• Access to exclusive ultrasound vacancies
• Expert consultative service
• Opportunities across the UK, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
• Preferred supply status with numerous NHS and private healthcare providers
• Weekly payroll

What is Counselling Psychology?

Counselling psychology is a specialised branch of psychology focused on helping individuals improve their quality of life by addressing mental health challenges and exploring underlying issues in their experiences. Counselling psychologists treat a variety of mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders, while also supporting individuals through emotional, social, work, school, and physical health concerns.

Focus

Counselling psychologists assist with a broad range of mental health issues, including:

• Depression and anxiety
• Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia, bulimia)
• Psychosis
• Personality disorders
• Negative life events
• Bereavement
• Domestic violence, sexual, emotional, and physical abuse
• Trauma
• Relationship problems

They help individuals explore how their thoughts, behaviours, and experiences relate to their functioning in everyday life, including their social, economic, cultural, spiritual, and physical health experiences.

Approach

Counselling psychologists use psychological and psychotherapeutic theories and research to reduce psychological distress and promote well-being. The therapeutic relationship

between the psychologist and the patient is central to understanding and addressing psychological difficulties. Counselling psychologists typically work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, often as part of a multidisciplinary team alongside doctors, nurses, and other health professionals. They may also contribute to designing and implementing services at an organisational level.

A core feature of counselling psychology is its emphasis on culturally sensitive practices. It is particularly effective for individuals who are psychologically stable but are seeking to manage stress or life challenges.

Settings

Counselling psychologists work in diverse environments, including:

• Mental health services
• GP surgeries
• Hospitals
• University counselling centres
• Private practice
• Rehabilitation centres
• Academia and research
• Social justice and advocacy organisations

They can also work in leadership roles within the NHS or other healthcare settings, contributing to service design and implementation.

Education and Training

To become a counselling psychologist, you must complete a Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)-accredited doctoral degree, which includes a minimum of 450 hours of supervised counselling practice over three or more years in various settings. You will also need to undergo personal therapy as part of your training, emphasising the relationship between personal development and professional practice.

In addition to a doctoral degree, candidates need either an undergraduate or master’s degree in psychology recognised by the British Psychological Society (BPS), which grants eligibility for Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership. Experience working with adults or children with mental health problems, either professionally or voluntarily, is also required.

Career Path and Opportunities

Once qualified, counselling psychologists have various career opportunities. They can apply for senior positions, such as consultant psychologist or head of psychology services. Counselling psychologists can also contribute to the profession through research and teaching. Other career options include applying for roles as trainee high-intensity therapists in NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression services (formerly IAPT).

Pros and Cons of Counselling Psychology

Counselling psychology offers a rewarding career where you can make a meaningful difference in individuals’ lives. Advantages include flexible and part-time working hours, access to NHS benefits such as excellent pension schemes, and NHS discounts. However,

the role requires emotional resilience, strong communication skills, and a commitment to ongoing self-reflection and professional development.

Salary and Benefits

If employed by the NHS, counselling psychologists are part of the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system, typically starting at band 7 after completing their training, with opportunities for advancement as their career develops. Outside of the NHS, terms and conditions vary.

Skills Required

To succeed as a counselling psychologist, you need:

• Strong awareness of people and their behaviour
• Capacity for study and lifelong learning
• Ability to relate to a diverse range of people
• Excellent communication skills
• Emotional resilience and maturity
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A professional, responsible approach with respect for patient confidentiality

Funding and Further Training

As of April 2022, a two-year psychological professions funding rule applies to NHS-funded psychological profession training. This means individuals who complete NHS-funded training will not be eligible for further funding for two years if it leads to a role change.

This is the perfect time to work, with a strong demand for skilled professionals. By choosing MedicsPro, you'll have access to a wide range of opportunities and competitive pay rates.

Key Benefits:

• Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities: MedicsPro offers a broad selection of locum and permanent positions across various medical specialties.
• Competitive Pay Rates: The agency provides highly competitive pay rates to ensure you’re well-compensated for your skills and experience.
• Flexible Work Options: With locum and permanent roles available, you can choose work that suits your schedule and lifestyle, offering greater work-life balance.
• Dedicated Support: MedicsPro offers personalised support from a team of experienced recruitment consultants who are there to guide you through the job search process.
• Exclusive Roles: Many of the positions available through MedicsPro are exclusive, giving you access to roles that may not be advertised elsewhere.
• Ongoing Training and Development: The agency provides opportunities for continuing professional development, helping you stay current with industry standards and enhance your career prospects.
• Fast and Efficient Recruitment Process: MedicsPro ensures a smooth and streamlined recruitment process, minimising the time it takes for you to secure your next role.
• Nationwide and International Opportunities: Whether you're looking for work in the NHS, private sector, or overseas, MedicsPro offers positions across the UK and beyond.