Job Description
Clinical Psychologist
Hybrid role - Based either in South West or Manchester
Salary £55,000 to £72,000 pro rata DOE
Opportunity for two to 3 days a week employed work. Option to progress to go full time following probation.
Held Health is a national provider of comprehensive neurodiversity and mental health services dedicated to improving the lives of children, young people, and their families. Based primarily in Devon with a growing presence across the UK, our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to deliver high-quality assessment, therapy, and support for children with complex emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs — including those who are cared for, adopted, or neurodivergent.
We are committed to trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and evidence-based practice, ensuring that every young person and family we work with feels understood, supported, and empowered to thrive.
About the Role
We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Clinical Psychologist to join our expanding team in both Exeter and Manchester. The successful candidate will bring expertise in trauma-informed and neurodevelopmental assessment and therapy, working with children and young people who have experienced developmental trauma, attachment disruptions, and/or neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD, etc.).
You will provide comprehensive psychological assessments, therapeutic interventions, and consultation as part of a multidisciplinary team, helping to create safe and stable systems around each child.
This is an excellent opportunity for a clinician seeking meaningful, flexible, and values-led work, with opportunities to expand into a full-time role following the probationary period.
Reporting to: Clinical Director
Key Responsibilities:
Psychological Assessment
* Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments for children and young people presenting with complex emotional, behavioural, and developmental needs.
* Undertake neurodevelopmental assessments (including ADOS-2) for those with suspected autism and/or co-occurring trauma or attachment-related difficulties.
* Integrate psychometric, observational, and narrative-based approaches to develop a holistic understanding of each child’s strengths and needs.
* Formulate complex presentations through a trauma-informed, attachment, and neuro-affirming lens
Formulation and Treatment Planning
* Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to provide thorough formulations and develop individualised care plans.
* Have a good working knowledge of or be trained in trauma- and attachment-based models (e.g. DDP, NVR, Theraplay, TF-CBT) to guide assessment and intervention.
* Develop clear, accessible recommendations for families, carers, and professionals, supporting shared understanding and consistent care.
* Deliver evidence-based interventions, tailored to each child’s developmental profile and family system.
Therapeutic Intervention
* Provide individual, dyadic, and family-based therapy using trauma- and attachment-informed models (e.g. DDP, Theraplay, NVR, EMDR, CBT).
* Support emotional regulation, relationship repair, and resilience through creative and relational approaches.
* Offer psychoeducation to parents, carers, and professionals on trauma, attachment, and neurodiversity.
Collaborative and Multi-Agency Working
* Work closely with education, health, and social care professionals to ensure integrated, holistic care.
* Contribute to multidisciplinary case discussions and joint care planning.
* Provide consultation and reflective spaces for carers, professionals, and partner agencies.
Documentation, Reporting, and Governance
* Maintain clear, accurate, and timely clinical records in line with HCPC and organisational standards.
* Produce high-quality psychological reports and formulations for families, professionals, and commissioners.
* Uphold ethical and governance standards, ensuring all work aligns with safeguarding and data protection requirements.
Supervision, Leadership, and Development
* Contribute to service development and innovation within a growing trauma-informed service.
* Provide supervision and support to assistant psychologists, trainees, or junior clinicians.
* Engage in continuing professional development (CPD) and reflective practice to ensure clinical excellence.
Skills and Qualifications:
* Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (or equivalent) and HCPC registration.
* Minimum 2 years’ post-qualification experience working with children and young people.
* Experience in trauma-informed, attachment-based, or systemic interventions (e.g. DDP, NVR, Theraplay, EMDR, TF-CBT).
* Skilled in psychological formulation, assessment, and intervention for children with complex emotional and developmental needs.
* Strong understanding of the impact of developmental trauma, care experiences, and neurodiversity on emotional and relational development.
* Excellent interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills.
* Commitment to reflective, compassionate, and person-centred practice.
Desirable Experience
* ADOS-2 or ADI-R trained (or willingness to train).
* Experience working in adoption, fostering, or residential care contexts.
* Experience offering consultation and reflective practice to teams.
* Knowledge of relevant legislation (Children Act, SEND Code of Practice, Adoption and Children Act, etc.).
Benefits and Professional Development
* Competitive salary £55,000 – £72,000 per annum (DOE, pro rata).
* Flexible working – 2-3 days per week employed, with opportunity to increase to full time post-probation - 22.5 hours a week
* 34 days’ holiday including bank holidays (pro rata).
* Company pension scheme.
* Regular clinical supervision within a supportive, reflective, and person-centred framework.
* Ongoing CPD opportunities and access to specialist training in trauma-informed and neurodiversity approaches.
* Collaborative MDT environment with psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, and education specialists.
* Maternity, paternity, and adoption leave.
* Cycle to Work scheme and regular team wellbeing events.