Psychological Practitioner

Job summaryThe post-holder will provide low-intensity
psychologically informed interventions to patients in the South Sefton area as
an extension of the Primary Care Network GP Practices. The post holder will
work with a diverse caseload, and should be committed to equal opportunities.
This position will align with the Health and Wellbeing Coach Additional Role Reimbursement
Role.The post-holder will be required to conduct
psychological assessments, develop structured formulations and deliver psychologically
informed, evidence-based interventions under the supervision of an experienced
qualified psychological professional.
This will include interventions appropriate to presenting need such as
cognitive behavioural techniques, solution-focused approaches and mindfulness-based
skills. Main duties of the job1. Complete psychological assessments, structured formulations and delivery of, psychological interventions.2. Build healthy and meaningful working relationships with colleagues from different professions in various settings.3. Assessment, understanding and supporting formulation, planning, organising, reviewing and delivering recovery-oriented and evidence-based interventions to support the recovery of service users, as agreed with the supervising clinician(s). This work will be in accordance with clinical governance processes and professional standards.4. To forge strong and healthy connections between physical and mental health care within a community setting as part of a holistic approach.5. Engage with clinical supervision with a named member of qualified psychology staff to take place on a weekly basis to facilitate their work and ensure safe practice.6. Assist in the development, design and implementation of programme and project work. To assist in the administration and interpretation of outcome related measures, collation and recording of statistics and production of relevant reports.7. To engage with relevant CPD associated with the job role in order to feel confident in day-to-day practice.About usWe are a collaborative partnership of 19 GP practices working alongside community, mental health, social care and voluntary sector organisations to improve the health and wellbeing of our local population. We are committed to delivering proactive, personalised and coordinated care, with a strong focus on prevention, reducing health inequalities and supporting people to live healthier, more independent lives.Our workforce includes GPs, Nurses, Advanced Practitioners, Clinical Pharmacists, Paramedics, Social Prescribing Link Workers, Care Coordinators and other specialist roles who work together to develop innovative services to meet the needs of our communities. We are passionate about transforming healthcare through collaboration, continuous improvement & population-focused care.Everything we do is underpinned by our core values:Making a Difference in the Right Way delivering high-quality, safe & effective care that places patients at the centre of everything we do.Acting with Enthusiasm and Positivity embracing innovation, teamwork and opportunities to improve services for our patients & staff.Behaving with Care and Compassion treating patients, colleagues and partners with kindness, respect & understanding.We foster a supportive and inclusive environment where staff are encouraged to develop their skills, share ideas & contribute to the ongoing evolution of primary care services.DetailsDate posted16 September 2026Pay schemeOtherSalary
32,073 to 39,043 a year
Aligned to Band 5 AfC
ContractPermanentWorking pattern

Full-time

Reference numberA Job locationsBiz Space36 Canal StreetBootleMerseysideL20 8AHUnited KingdomJob descriptionJob responsibilitiesSouth Sefton Primary Care Network (SSPCN) is
seeking a Psychological Practitioner Health and Wellbeing Coach to deliver
high-quality, low-intensity, psychologically informed support to people
referred through GP practices across South Sefton. This is a Band 5, full-time
role (37.5 hours per week), based across the South Sefton Primary Care area
assigned. The post holder will work with adults aged 18+ who are at risk of,
experiencing or recovering from mental health difficulties. The role aligns
with the Health and Wellbeing Coach Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme
framework and combines psychologically informed practice with personalised
health coaching to improve wellbeing, resilience, self-management and
health-related outcomes.Role purposeWorking under the regular supervision of a
qualified psychological professional, the post holder will undertake
psychological assessments, develop collaborative and structured formulations,
and deliver time-limited, evidence-based interventions matched to individual
need. Approaches may include cognitive behavioural techniques, solution-focused
methods, mindfulness-based skills and other appropriate psychologically
informed models within the competence of a Band 5 practitioner. Assessment and
intervention will be person-centred, recovery-oriented, trauma-informed and
formulation-driven, taking account of psychological, physical, social and
environmental factors. The post holder will also use health coaching approaches
to help people identify what matters to them, set personalised goals and build
confidence in managing their health and wellbeing.Main duties and
responsibilities
Complete
holistic biopsychosocial and psychological assessments using clinical
interviews, observation, information from relevant others and, where
appropriate, standardised outcome measures or psychometric tools.
Develop
shared psychological formulations, including structured approaches such as the
5 Ps or CBT models, and review these formulations through supervision as needs
change.
Deliver
planned, low-intensity psychological interventions on an individual basis and potentially
co-deliver group interventions and wellbeing sessions.
Use
health and wellbeing coaching skills to support behaviour change, lifestyle
modification, resilience and self-management through collaborative,
personalised goal setting.
Build
effective therapeutic relationships, explain confidentiality clearly, obtain
informed consent and communicate sensitively with people, families, carers and
professionals.
Complete
collaborative risk assessments, risk formulations and management plans in
accordance with local policy, escalating or seeking support where required.
Recognise
and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns involving children or
adults, following organisational and statutory procedures.
Review
progress and outcomes with patients, determine when further intervention may
not be helpful, and support safe discharge, onward referral or follow-up
planning.
Maintain
accurate, timely and appropriate electronic clinical records, including
assessment documentation, progress notes, outcome measures, supervision records
and discharge correspondence.
Manage
and prioritise a varied caseload, plan appointments and administrative time,
organise an effective diary and work safely within lone-working procedures.Multidisciplinary and
partnership workingThe post holder will work as an active member
of the multidisciplinary team and maintain constructive relationships with
SSPCN GP practices, ARRS colleagues, primary and community mental health teams,
social care, education, housing, benefits services, voluntary, community and
faith organisations, and other partners involved in a persons care. They will
contribute relevant clinical information, report progress and outcomes, support
shared decision-making and help people access the most appropriate pathway. The
role requires confidence in communicating complex, sensitive or potentially
contentious information, including where people are distressed or face barriers
to understanding or engagement. Communication must be clear, compassionate,
respectful and adapted to individual need.Supervision and professional
developmentThe post holder will prepare for and
participate fully in weekly clinical supervision with a named qualified
psychological professional, as well as relevant group supervision, line
management and appraisal processes. They will respond to supervisory guidance,
maintain appropriate supervision records and use reflection to develop clinical
skills, evaluate their practice and maintain safe professional boundaries. They
are expected to engage in continuing professional development, apply learning
from relevant higher education and training, remain aware of their own
wellbeing and fitness to practise, and seek timely support when clinical
information is incomplete, complex or conflicting.Clinical governance and safe
practice
Provide
care in accordance with evidence-based practice, NICE guidance, local and
national policies, clinical governance requirements and relevant professional
codes of ethics and conduct.
Understand
and apply legal and ethical principles relevant to mental health care,
including confidentiality, consent, capacity, safeguarding and appropriate
information sharing.
Maintain
patient confidentiality and comply with information governance, record-keeping
and data protection requirements.
Use
electronic patient record systems and approved digital communication platforms
competently and in line with organisational policies.
Work
in accordance with health and safety requirements, report unsafe practice and
contribute to a culture in which concerns can be raised appropriately.
Promote
equality, diversity and inclusion, challenge discriminatory practice and
recognise the effects of difference, inequality and social circumstances on
health and access to care.Service improvement and
evaluationThe post holder will contribute to the
continuing development of the Psychological Practitioner role and the wider
service. This may include supporting programme and project work, gathering and
interpreting outcome data, collecting service-user feedback, maintaining
activity records, contributing to reports and presentations, taking part in
clinical audit and service evaluation, and sharing learning with colleagues.
They may undertake literature reviews, critically appraise research and
contribute to training events, steering groups or service-development
discussions when requested. All activity must comply with relevant ethical and
governance requirements.The person we are looking forYou will bring psychological knowledge and
practical skills developed through an appropriate postgraduate, counselling or
related qualification and relevant continuing professional development. You
will be able to apply theory to practice within the boundaries of the role,
develop trusting therapeutic relationships and communicate with empathy,
clarity and professionalism. You should be able to assess and interpret complex
information, consider different options, make proportionate recommendations
with supervisory support and recognise when to escalate concerns. Strong
organisation, accurate documentation, digital confidence and the ability to
work both independently and collaboratively are essential. You will be
comfortable working across GP practices and community settings, managing
competing demands and contributing positively to a developing service. A
commitment to compassionate, non-discriminatory, recovery-focused and
evidence-based care is central to the role.Accountability and
organisational contextThe post holder will be managerially
accountable to the Line Manager/Service Lead and professionally accountable to
the Clinical Supervisor/Clinical Lead. South Sefton PCN aims to strengthen and
sustain general practice, support collaborative working across member
practices, develop integrated and place-based care, improve patient access and
experience, build effective links with community partners and make appropriate
use of digital technology. Our values are making a difference in the right way,
acting with enthusiasm and positivity, and behaving with care and compassion.
The post holder will be expected to demonstrate these values consistently in
their work with patients, colleagues and partner organisations.
Job description
Job responsibilitiesSouth Sefton Primary Care Network (SSPCN) is
seeking a Psychological Practitioner Health and Wellbeing Coach to deliver
high-quality, low-intensity, psychologically informed support to people
referred through GP practices across South Sefton. This is a Band 5, full-time
role (37.5 hours per week), based across the South Sefton Primary Care area
assigned. The post holder will work with adults aged 18+ who are at risk of,
experiencing or recovering from mental health difficulties. The role aligns
with the Health and Wellbeing Coach Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme
framework and combines psychologically informed practice with personalised
health coaching to improve wellbeing, resilience, self-management and
health-related outcomes.Role purposeWorking under the regular supervision of a
qualified psychological professional, the post holder will undertake
psychological assessments, develop collaborative and structured formulations,
and deliver time-limited, evidence-based interventions matched to individual
need. Approaches may include cognitive behavioural techniques, solution-focused
methods, mindfulness-based skills and other appropriate psychologically
informed models within the competence of a Band 5 practitioner. Assessment and
intervention will be person-centred, recovery-oriented, trauma-informed and
formulation-driven, taking account of psychological, physical, social and
environmental factors. The post holder will also use health coaching approaches
to help people identify what matters to them, set personalised goals and build
confidence in managing their health and wellbeing.Main duties and
responsibilities
Complete
holistic biopsychosocial and psychological assessments using clinical
interviews, observation, information from relevant others and, where
appropriate, standardised outcome measures or psychometric tools.
Develop
shared psychological formulations, including structured approaches such as the
5 Ps or CBT models, and review these formulations through supervision as needs
change.
Deliver
planned, low-intensity psychological interventions on an individual basis and potentially
co-deliver group interventions and wellbeing sessions.
Use
health and wellbeing coaching skills to support behaviour change, lifestyle
modification, resilience and self-management through collaborative,
personalised goal setting.
Build
effective therapeutic relationships, explain confidentiality clearly, obtain
informed consent and communicate sensitively with people, families, carers and
professionals.
Complete
collaborative risk assessments, risk formulations and management plans in
accordance with local policy, escalating or seeking support where required.
Recognise
and respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns involving children or
adults, following organisational and statutory procedures.
Review
progress and outcomes with patients, determine when further intervention may
not be helpful, and support safe discharge, onward referral or follow-up
planning.
Maintain
accurate, timely and appropriate electronic clinical records, including
assessment documentation, progress notes, outcome measures, supervision records
and discharge correspondence.
Manage
and prioritise a varied caseload, plan appointments and administrative time,
organise an effective diary and work safely within lone-working procedures.Multidisciplinary and
partnership workingThe post holder will work as an active member
of the multidisciplinary team and maintain constructive relationships with
SSPCN GP practices, ARRS colleagues, primary and community mental health teams,
social care, education, housing, benefits services, voluntary, community and
faith organisations, and other partners involved in a persons care. They will
contribute relevant clinical information, report progress and outcomes, support
shared decision-making and help people access the most appropriate pathway. The
role requires confidence in communicating complex, sensitive or potentially
contentious information, including where people are distressed or face barriers
to understanding or engagement. Communication must be clear, compassionate,
respectful and adapted to individual need.Supervision and professional
developmentThe post holder will prepare for and
participate fully in weekly clinical supervision with a named qualified
psychological professional, as well as relevant group supervision, line
management and appraisal processes. They will respond to supervisory guidance,
maintain appropriate supervision records and use reflection to develop clinical
skills, evaluate their practice and maintain safe professional boundaries. They
are expected to engage in continuing professional development, apply learning
from relevant higher education and training, remain aware of their own
wellbeing and fitness to practise, and seek timely support when clinical
information is incomplete, complex or conflicting.Clinical governance and safe
practice
Provide
care in accordance with evidence-based practice, NICE guidance, local and
national policies, clinical governance requirements and relevant professional
codes of ethics and conduct.
Understand
and apply legal and ethical principles relevant to mental health care,
including confidentiality, consent, capacity, safeguarding and appropriate
information sharing.
Maintain
patient confidentiality and comply with information governance, record-keeping
and data protection requirements.
Use
electronic patient record systems and approved digital communication platforms
competently and in line with organisational policies.
Work
in accordance with health and safety requirements, report unsafe practice and
contribute to a culture in which concerns can be raised appropriately.
Promote
equality, diversity and inclusion, challenge discriminatory practice and
recognise the effects of difference, inequality and social circumstances on
health and access to care.Service improvement and
evaluationThe post holder will contribute to the
continuing development of the Psychological Practitioner role and the wider
service. This may include supporting programme and project work, gathering and
interpreting outcome data, collecting service-user feedback, maintaining
activity records, contributing to reports and presentations, taking part in
clinical audit and service evaluation, and sharing learning with colleagues.
They may undertake literature reviews, critically appraise research and
contribute to training events, steering groups or service-development
discussions when requested. All activity must comply with relevant ethical and
governance requirements.The person we are looking forYou will bring psychological knowledge and
practical skills developed through an appropriate postgraduate, counselling or
related qualification and relevant continuing professional development. You
will be able to apply theory to practice within the boundaries of the role,
develop trusting therapeutic relationships and communicate with empathy,
clarity and professionalism. You should be able to assess and interpret complex
information, consider different options, make proportionate recommendations
with supervisory support and recognise when to escalate concerns. Strong
organisation, accurate documentation, digital confidence and the ability to
work both independently and collaboratively are essential. You will be
comfortable working across GP practices and community settings, managing
competing demands and contributing positively to a developing service. A
commitment to compassionate, non-discriminatory, recovery-focused and
evidence-based care is central to the role.Accountability and
organisational contextThe post holder will be managerially
accountable to the Line Manager/Service Lead and professionally accountable to
the Clinical Supervisor/Clinical Lead. South Sefton PCN aims to strengthen and
sustain general practice, support collaborative working across member
practices, develop integrated and place-based care, improve patient access and
experience, build effective links with community partners and make appropriate
use of digital technology. Our values are making a difference in the right way,
acting with enthusiasm and positivity, and behaving with care and compassion.
The post holder will be expected to demonstrate these values consistently in
their work with patients, colleagues and partner organisations.Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential-A minimum of a second-class honors degree or higher in psychology.-Postgraduate Diploma Associate Psychological Practitioner or equivalent psychological qualification (PGDip APP/PG Cert).Desirable-Eligibility for graduate membership of the British Psychological Society.-Membership registration with the BACP or another nationally accepted regulatory body.-Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner Qualification.
Experience
Essential-Demonstrates an understanding of lifespan psychology applied to health care.-Demonstrates an understanding of the needs and difficulties of people with psychological/mental health difficulties or other disabilities.-Good communication skills (written and verbal) including an ability to communicate and work across a number of different settings.-Experience of working with people from different backgrounds and across different ages and an understanding of the impact of social determinants upon peoples mental and physical health. -An ability and confidence to interact effectively with staff from all disciplines.-Ability to undertake psychologically informed research projects under supervision.-Experience using computers for databases or data analysis.-Experience and proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Applications e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint.-Ability to work reliably and consistently with work agreed and managed at regular intervals.-High level communication skills (written and verbal) including an ability to communicate and work in settings in which the atmosphere may be highly emotive.-Ability to communicate sensitive information to service users, cares and colleagues.-Experience of working with people who experience difficulties with mental health and/or physical health.-To have worked as part of a team in a clinical setting.-Experience of organising and prioritising your own workload and time-Experience of conducting research projects of service related audit.Desirable-Demonstrates an understanding of the clinical practice of psychological interventions. -Demonstrates an understanding for the need to use evidence based psychological therapies and how it relates to this post.-Ability to communicate sensitive information to others.-Received training (either formal of through experience) and carried out risk assessments within scope of practice-Experience of delivering training.
Personal
Essential-Ability to accept and use supervision appropriately and effectively.-Ability to undertake travel across a wide geographical area.-Able to work in the UK.-Ability and willingness to work outside office hours when required by the role to provide extended access to mental health services.
Person Specification

Qualifications
Essential-A minimum of a second-class honors degree or higher in psychology.-Postgraduate Diploma Associate Psychological Practitioner or equivalent psychological qualification (PGDip APP/PG Cert).Desirable-Eligibility for graduate membership of the British Psychological Society.-Membership registration with the BACP or another nationally accepted regulatory body.-Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioner Qualification.
Experience
Essential-Demonstrates an understanding of lifespan psychology applied to health care.-Demonstrates an understanding of the needs and difficulties of people with psychological/mental health difficulties or other disabilities.-Good communication skills (written and verbal) including an ability to communicate and work across a number of different settings.-Experience of working with people from different backgrounds and across different ages and an understanding of the impact of social determinants upon peoples mental and physical health. -An ability and confidence to interact effectively with staff from all disciplines.-Ability to undertake psychologically informed research projects under supervision.-Experience using computers for databases or data analysis.-Experience and proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Applications e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint.-Ability to work reliably and consistently with work agreed and managed at regular intervals.-High level communication skills (written and verbal) including an ability to communicate and work in settings in which the atmosphere may be highly emotive.-Ability to communicate sensitive information to service users, cares and colleagues.-Experience of working with people who experience difficulties with mental health and/or physical health.-To have worked as part of a team in a clinical setting.-Experience of organising and prioritising your own workload and time-Experience of conducting research projects of service related audit.Desirable-Demonstrates an understanding of the clinical practice of psychological interventions. -Demonstrates an understanding for the need to use evidence based psychological therapies and how it relates to this post.-Ability to communicate sensitive information to others.-Received training (either formal of through experience) and carried out risk assessments within scope of practice-Experience of delivering training.
Personal
Essential-Ability to accept and use supervision appropriately and effectively.-Ability to undertake travel across a wide geographical area.-Able to work in the UK.-Ability and willingness to work outside office hours when required by the role to provide extended access to mental health services.Disclosure and Barring Service CheckThis post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.Employer detailsEmployer nameSouth Sefton Primary Healthcare Ltd.AddressBiz Space36 Canal StreetBootleMerseysideL20 8AHUnited KingdomEmployer's websiteEmployer detailsEmployer nameSouth Sefton Primary Healthcare Ltd.AddressBiz Space36 Canal StreetBootleMerseysideL20 8AHUnited KingdomEmployer's website