Assistant Psychologist

JOB DESCRIPTION 1 Division Bolton Inpatient Psychology 2 Location Royal Bolton Hospital 3 Job Title Assistant Psychologist 4 Hours of Work Permanent, 37.5 hours per week 5 Grade of Post Band 4 6 Reports to Senior Clinical Psychologist, Bolton Inpatients Wards 7 Accountable to Principal Clinical Psychologist, Lead for Bolton Inpatient Wards 8 Responsible for Job Summary To work as part of the psychological service provision within the two Acute Care wards and PICU (Psychiatric Intensive Care Units). The primary focus is to facilitate the running of psychologically informed groups and 1:1 psychological intervention on the wards and PICUs (Psychiatric Intensive Care Units) under the supervision of a qualified Clinical Psychologist and with the operational support of Acute Care management. To assist the Clinical Psychologists in enhancing and developing the psychological service provided to an adult acute psychiatric inpatient unit. The unit serves individuals in acute crisis, with extensive trauma histories, experiencing high levels of distress and psychological needs.
The post holder will work as an integral part of a multidisciplinary team that includes staff with a range of experience, and from a range of professional backgrounds and will be expected, therefore, to promote a psychological view when this might be different to the views of others in the team. They will be expected to work effectively and manage many competing tasks in what can be, at times, an unpredictable, risky, and emotive environment. Main Duties of the Post Clinical To facilitate the running of psychologically informed groups on the wards. Independently deliver these groups and encourage other members of the multi-disciplinary team to become engaged in these activities.
To ensure psychologically relevant resource material is available to the wards. When required, to assist with assessments / reviews / consultations by administering self-report measures, rating scales, neuropsychological tests, and semi-structured interviews with clients, family members and others involved in clients care, all under supervision. Under clinical supervision, independently implement time limited psychological interventions, involving creative engagement with clients with complex relational and risk related needs. To document clinical records in accordance with Trust policy and to contribute towards report writing and letter writing.
To contribute to appropriate multidisciplinary meetings, ward meetings and to liaise with family / carers, other staff, and agencies. To assist in the planning of appropriate psychological interventions according to the assessment. Teaching, Training & Supervision Receive regular clinical supervision from a qualified clinical psychologist in accordance with professional practice guidelines. To gain a wider understanding of professional psychology within the NHS and of Acute Care services.
To develop skills and competencies that assist in the delivery of current duties. Within limits of experience and job plan, to contribute to training sessions of ward-based staff in psychological ways of working. Research & Service Evaluation To utilise theory, evidence-based literature, and research to support evidence-based practice in work with clients carried out under the supervision from a suitably trained senior practitioner and a qualified clinical psychologist. To assist in relevant psychology audit/research projects related to Acute Care.
To develop knowledge of complex mental health and risk presentations, through regular literature searches, reading and personal study. To undertake searches of evidence-based literature and research to assist with research projects and with the development of evidence based clinical practice. Professional/General To contribute to the maintenance of the highest professional standards of practice, through active participation in internal and external CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training in consultation with the supervisor. To ensure the highest standards of clinical and other record keeping.
To ensure confidentiality of all clinical records and confidential data in line with relevant professional codes of practice and Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust policy procedures and guidelines. To undertake specific administrative duties as required. To attend meetings relevant to the efficient execution of the duties of the post. To follow all appropriate policies and procedures of the Trust.
To undertake any other such duties as may be required under the general direction of the clinical psychologist within the grade range of the post. Responsibilities and Accountabilities All Care Trust Staff All staff working within our Trust should adopt our values; Truthfulness, Respect, Understanding, Standards, Togetherness; and utilise these whenever and wherever they are providing services. All staff have a responsibility to contribute to high standards of care, placing the needs of pa