Psychological wellbeing practitioner apprenticeships - where to start
You can get into this job through
a university coursean apprenticeshipapplying directly
University
You could do a degree in psychology or health and social care subjects, and then apply for a place on a postgraduate training course.
After your degree, you'll be employed in the health service and complete Improving Access to Psychological Therapy training, approved by the British Psychological Society.
This 12-month course is made up of 1 day of academic study and 4 days of supervised practice each week.
You'll need 2 to 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, for a degree. You'll need a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study.
Apprenticeship
You could do a Psychological wellbeing practitioner degree apprenticeship.
You may need a degree in a relevant subject like psychology or nursing or experience of working in mental health to do this apprenticeship.
Employers will set their own entry requirements. You'll normally need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A-Levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.
Volunteering
To get into this role you'll usually need long-term, paid or voluntary experience of working with people who have mental health issues or disabilities.
Direct Application
You can apply directly if you've got relevant skills and knowledge. Employers will look for:
qualifications in nursing, social work, occupational therapy, arts therapy or other psychological therapy
experience and training in cognitive behavioural therapy
You'll complete an Improving Access to Psychological Therapy training course while you work. Experience of working with people with mental health problems will be helpful.
Psychological wellbeing practitioner apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of psychology
- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- to be flexible and open to change
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work well with others
- to enjoy working with other people
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- customer service skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to
pass enhanced background checks. You may need a driving licence for some jobs.
Psychological wellbeing practitioner apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As part of your day-to-day duties, you could:
- conduct one to one interview sessions to assess and support patients' needs
- design and run group therapy sessions
- promote good mental health in the community
- signpost people to relevant services
- keep accurate and up-to-date patient care records
- support and train other healthcare professionals
- develop and set up new mental health support services
Working environment
You could work at a health centre, at a client's home or at a GP practice.
Your working environment may be emotionally demanding.
Career path and progression - Psychological wellbeing practitioner apprenticeships
With experience, you could train as a high intensity therapist, working with people with complex mental health needs.
You could also lead a team or develop new mental health services.