Assistant Psychologists work as part of a multidisciplinary team to provide clinical support to patients with a range of mental health conditions under the supervision of a psychologist.
Assistant Psychologists work in a variety of roles to support people with mental health conditions. You’ll work as part of a multidisciplinary team, providing clinical support to patients and will be supervised by a psychologist.
Applicants for these posts usually need a degree in psychology, ideally one recognised by the British Psychological Society.
You will need a range of skills, including a sympathetic and patient attitude and the ability to relate to a wide range of people, both patients and colleagues.
For many the role of an Assistant Psychologist serves as a stepping-stone towards full qualification as a Chartered Psychologist.
- You will work as part of a team that could include clinical, counselling, forensic or health psychologists along with social workers, occupational therapists, mental health nurses and psychiatrists
- You will carry out assessments and behavioural observations, and provide treatment and interventions
- You will work with patients’ carers, relatives and others involved in their care including mental health workers
- You will be supervised by a registered practitioner psychologist with overall clinical responsibility for the patients you work with
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I am an Assistant Psychologist focused on workforce, which involves projects on recruitment, retention, staff wellbeing, training and staff supervision. I also complete clinical work within my role, both 1:1 and group interventions, which generally focus on low mood, anxiety, and emotional regulation.
I developed an interest in staff wellbeing and service development in my previous role in a mental health setting, as I saw how important it is that staff feel supported and seen within the work setting, particularly due to the difficult nature of the job. I also love working with young people to better understand their difficulties and finding ways to manage this, so I knew that I definitely wanted some clinical experience as well.
A typical day might involve one to one sessions and planning for sessions and groups. It also tends to involve workforce meetings, for example a training planning group, supervision and completing tasks like evaluating trainings delivered by CAMHS. However, this will vary depending on the team and service you work in. Other APs are involved in other areas of work such as assessments, consultation clinics, and school observations.
I try to stay up to date with the latest research in psychology through platforms such as the Association for Child Adolescent Mental Health, which showcases latest research through podcasts and blog posts. The training delivered by CAMHS also provides new and up to date developments and perspectives within that field.
The most rewarding aspect of the job is working with young people and families and being able to create an open, safe, non-judgemental space for those who may not have one otherwise. Getting to know the young people we work with and seeing their progress is really rewarding. I also really enjoy being able to assist with and help drive projects in workforce development, for example wellbeing support and training.
I think the qualities needed by someone working in CAMHS would be patience, compassion, courage to push yourself and try new things, showing initiative, being flexible, and above all kindness!
Assistant Psychologist jobs can be difficult to get into, so I think it’s important to remember that if this job is what you really want to do, it’s worth continuing to pursue this and be resilient. If you are worried about the experience you have for the job, it might be helpful to get some volunteering experience, for example for Mind or Dementia UK. It may also be beneficial to read up about the psychology professions and what they involve; there are lots of different pathways/specialisms so it’s good to know your options.
Any additional training would be beneficial to broaden your skills and knowledge before entering this role, however they aren’t necessary for the job.
Technology has allowed for more flexible working and better communication with patients. I provide interventions face to face with all of my cases but there is the option of providing intervention online if this suits the needs of the patient.
The work we do and the cases we encounter can be really difficult at times, however my passion to make a difference where I can persists even when it’s hard. I think the difference we are able to make to young people and families puts us in a very privileged position. I’ve realised the importance for all staff to practice effective self care and to look after ourselves and one another so we can provide the best service possible to the children and young people we see.
The videos below published by the Psychological Professions Network describe the roles of Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, Forensic Psychologist and Health Psychologist.
