Are you a Psychology or Criminology graduate in and around Bedford eager to build a meaningful career in mental health, clinical practice, or the education and training sector? This Psychology Graduate Mental Health Assistant role offers you the perfect launchpad to gain invaluable hands-on experience supporting students with complex needs - all while setting you on a clear career pathway toward clinical roles such as Assistant Psychologist, Clinical Practitioner, or Therapist.
Psychology Graduate Mental Health Assistant - Pathway to Clinical Careers
Location: Bedford
Contract: Full-Time | Long-Term
Start Date: September 2025
Salary: £460-£500 per week
Sector: Mental Health, Clinical Development, Education and Training
Your Role: Psychology Graduate Mental Health Assistant
Based in a respected Special Educational Needs (SEN) school in Bedford, you will work closely with children facing Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges, Autism, and behavioural difficulties. Supported by a dedicated clinical and therapeutic team, your responsibilities will include:
Delivering personalised 1:1 and small group interventions
Applying therapeutic techniques to support emotional regulation
Collaborating with educational psychologists, counsellors, and therapists
Supporting students' academic and personal growth
Building trusting relationships that empower students to thrive
Clear Career Progression as a Psychology Graduate Mental Health Assistant
This position is more than just a job - it's a structured stepping stone designed to advance your career in fields such as:
Clinical or Educational Psychology
Occupational Therapy or Speech and Language Therapy
Specialist Teaching and SEN Education
Mental Health Support and Youth Intervention
You'll benefit from ongoing professional development, targeted internal education and training, and opportunities to progress into roles like Assistant Psychologist or funded postgraduate study. Many of our graduates have successfully transitioned into permanent clinical roles within our multi-disciplinary Bedford team.
Who We're Looking For
Final-year or recent graduates in Psychology, Criminology, or related disciplines
Passionate about mental health, neurodiversity, and supporting young people
Committed to a minimum 12-month position to ensure consistent care
Experience working with children or young people is a plus, but not essential
Motivated, emotionally intelligent, and resilient
Why Join Us?
Gain essential clinical experience before pursuing postgraduate qualifications
Receive mentorship from experienced professionals in education and therapy
Thrive in a setting that values your personal development as much as your students'
Make a real, positive impact on children with SEMH needs
Join a supportive, trauma-informed care team focused on innovation and growth
If you're a Psychology or Criminology graduate ready to launch your career as a Psychology Graduate Mental Health Assistant, this role in Bedford offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills and build a rewarding clinical career