Overview
We are looking for a Counsellor to deliver evidence‑based counselling for adults with depression within the Sheffield Talking Therapies Service. The role involves face‑to‑face and virtual sessions, maintaining national standards and collaborating closely with the wider talking therapies team.
Responsibilities
* Provide counselling for adults experiencing depression in line with NICE guidance and the Talking Therapies manual.
* Work collaboratively with Talking Therapies colleagues to step patients who require counselling.
* Deliver at least 20 clinical contact hours (pro‑rata) per week and a minimum of 22.5 working hours per week, including Thursday afternoon non‑clinical time for meetings, forums, and CPD.
* Offer one early and one late appointment per week, with occasional Saturday work if required.
* Deliver face‑to‑face and virtual treatment sessions based on patient demand and service need.
* Manage all aspects of appointments and waiting lists, coordinating with different GP practice systems where applicable.
* Provide an initial assessment once stepped by a Talking Therapies colleague, including risk assessment and suitable counselling contract, or signpost or refer appropriately.
* Offer professional advice and support to referrers and Talking Therapies colleagues in primary care.
* Work autonomously within professional guidelines and best practice Talking Therapies guidelines.
* Liaise with Talking Therapies colleagues and GPs regarding concerns and treatment outcomes.
* Use data to reflect, guide and improve practice in conjunction with supervision.
* Contribute to counselling forums and CPD events.
* Complete all session‑by‑session outcome measures and maintain high clinical practice by attending individual and group supervision.
* Provide counselling consultation and support to the primary health care team where needed.
* Participate in team meetings, service away days, and individual performance reviews aligned with national Talking Therapies standards.
* Continue professional development and keep all mandatory training up to date.
Professional and Practice Requirements
* Experience in evidence‑based counselling for depression, following NICE guidance.
* Credentialed on the relevant professional register or equivalent qualifications.
* Demonstrated ability to manage risk, including child and vulnerable adult protection.
* Strong record‑keeping skills and knowledge of Sheffield Talking Therapies Standard Operating Procedures.
* Capability to work with interpreters where required.
* Excellent communication skills and ability to engage clients sensitively.
Working Conditions
Working hours are 22.5 hours per week, with Thursday afternoons dedicated to non‑clinical duties such as meetings and CPD. Saturday work may be required on occasion. Sessions may be delivered face‑to‑face or virtually, depending on patient demand.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
We are a Disability Confident employer and offer a guaranteed interview to disabled applicants who meet all essential criteria. We welcome applications from people with a wide range of life experience and whose diversity echoes that of Sheffield and the communities we serve.
Recruitment and DBS
Successful applicants will be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service check. The cost of the DBS check will be met by the applicant but may be reimbursed through the Trust’s Employee Expenses Reimbursement Policy. All employees must join the DBS Update Service.
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