Lead Psychological Therapist

Job overview

We are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking psychological therapy service that is at the forefront of innovative community mental health care.

The Core Community Psychological Service provides evidence-based group and individual psychological interventions for people experiencing complex mental health difficulties. Developed in response to the Community Mental Health Framework, the service addresses the gap between primary and secondary mental health care, ensuring that people with complex needs receive timely, accessible, and effective psychological support.

As Lead Clinical Psychologist / Psychological Therapist, you will play a key role within our Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT) team, delivering evidence-based psychological interventions through both group programmes and individual therapy. While an existing MBT qualification would be advantageous, it is not essential, as comprehensive training and ongoing supervision will be provided.

Alongside your clinical work, you will be an integral member of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with colleagues across health, social care, and the voluntary sector to improve access to high-quality psychological therapies for our diverse communities across Bradford District and Craven.

The post is based within our Aire-Wharfe locality, although some travel across Bradford District and Craven will be required.

Closing Date: 21st July 26

Shortlisting Date: 22nd July 26

Interview Date: 30th July 26

Main duties of the job

The clinical caseload is varied, with much of the work focusing on individuals whose experiences of trauma continue to impact their emotional wellbeing, relationships, and quality of life. You will bring strong assessment, formulation, and therapeutic skills, alongside the ability to communicate effectively, work autonomously, and contribute positively within a collaborative team.

Our service is underpinned by the principles of trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and neurodivergent-affirming practice. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement, regularly refining our service through innovation, evaluation, and co-production. We are therefore looking for someone who is adaptable, reflective, and enthusiastic about contributing to the ongoing development of our service.

We welcome applications from candidates who are in the final year of their Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and due to qualify this year. Successful applicants who have not yet obtained HCPC registration will be appointed at Agenda for Change Band 6 until registration is confirmed, after which they will progress to the substantive band for the role.

If you are passionate about delivering compassionate, evidence-based psychological care and would like to be part of an innovative and supportive team committed to improving outcomes for people with complex mental health needs, we would love to hear from you.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Please read the attached Job description and person specification for more details about this role.

Right to Work in the UK

Applicants should be aware that for any individual who requires a visa to work in the UK, the Trust provides sponsorship for registered healthcare practitioner roles only. This is an essential requirement of the role, and the Trust is unable to offer you a role if you are unable to meet Trust requirements for sponsorship and Home Office requirements for a visa.

Prior to your appointment you will be asked to provide confirmation of your right to work and reside in the UK. During your continued employment with the Trust, you have a personal responsibility to notify your manager as soon as possible should there be any changes to your right to work status.

Regrettably, if the role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Trust’s eligibility criteria, the Trust are unable to extend your employment beyond the expiration of your current visa. The Trust is not responsible or liable for ensuring that your employment continues after this period.

As a condition of continuous employment, it essential you maintain the legal right to work in the United Kingdom throughout the duration of your employment with Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust (BDCFT). Any change in your right-to-work status, including but not limited to visa expiration, revocation, or denial of renewal, may impact your eligibility for employment with the Trust. It is your responsibility to promptly inform your Line Manager of any changes in your right-to-work status immediately and to provide necessary documentation for verification purposes. Failure to obtain or renew your visa in a timely manner is a breach of employment conditions and will result in termination of your employment. We appreciate your attention to this matter and your commitment to fulfilling this requirement promptly.