Job Overview
The Assistant Psychologist will support the Adult Autism Service in providing psychologically informed and evidence-based assessment and post-diagnostic support to autistic adults. Working under the supervision of qualified psychologists, the post holder will contribute to clinical work, cognitive and psychological assessments, group interventions, research, audit, training, and service development activities. The role plays an important part in helping autistic adults access appropriate support, promoting person-centred care, and contributing to the wider aims of NELFT in delivering high-quality, compassionate, and collaborative mental health services.
Main duties of the job
- Provide psychologically informed and evidence-based post-diagnostic support to autistic adults and, where appropriate, their families and carers.
- Undertake psychological and cognitive assessments under the supervision of a qualified psychologist.
- Support the delivery of individual and group-based psychoeducational and psychological interventions.
- Maintain accurate and timely clinical records in accordance with Trust and professional guidelines.
- Contribute to service development, audit, research, and evaluation projects within the Adult Autism Service.
- Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary colleagues, voluntary agencies, and other relevant services to promote person-centred care.
- Assist in the development and delivery of training and psychoeducation related to autism.
- Participate in regular clinical supervision, team meetings, and professional development activities.
Detailed Job Description And Main Responsibilities
The post holder will work as part of the Adult Autism Service, supporting the delivery of high-quality psychological assessment and post-diagnostic support for autistic adults. Working under the supervision of a qualified psychologist, they will undertake a range of clinically related activities including psychological assessments, cognitive assessments, individual and group interventions, and support for family members and carers.
The role involves maintaining accurate clinical records, managing administrative tasks associated with clinical work, and ensuring compliance with Trust policies, professional standards, and information governance requirements. The post holder will be expected to communicate effectively with service users, carers, colleagues, and partner agencies, contributing to coordinated and person-centred care.
In addition to clinical responsibilities, the post holder will support audit, research, service evaluation, and quality improvement initiatives within the service. They will contribute to training activities and the development of resources that enhance understanding of autism among service users, carers, and professionals.
The successful candidate will be expected to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, demonstrate flexibility in responding to service needs, and actively engage in supervision and ongoing professional development. They will contribute to a positive team culture and uphold the Trust values of kindness, respect, and working together with communities.
Starting with NELFT
NELFT place a great deal of importance on new starters being properly welcomed and inducted into the Trust. All new starters will join the Trust on the first Monday of each month and will undertake a comprehensive induction of up to two weeks which will include mandatory training, systems training and the allocation of equipment. As part of the process new starters will have the opportunity to also meet the executive team, senior managers and attend a number of drop-in sessions focusing on engagement, health and wellbeing and key processes. The induction will be held at our head office in Rainham, Essex.
Probationary Period
This post will be subject to a probationary period. Internal applicants are exempt from the probationary period (unless you are an internal applicant currently part way through a probationary period or currently a bank member of staff).
High Cost Area Supplement Outer London (B&D, Redbridge, Havering and Waltham Forest, CEME)
This post also attracts payment for High Cost Area Supplement of 15% of the basic salary (with a minimum of £4,714 to a maximum of £5,941 p.a. pro rata for part time).
Working for Us
Joining #TeamNELFT means you’ll become part of a welcoming and supportive working environment. We’re CQC rated Good, and we want you to join us on the journey towards an Outstanding rating. NELFT has sites across North East London and Essex. We provide community and mental healthcare services to adults and children within these areas.
The Trust has award-winning equality and diversity initiatives, along with staff health and wellbeing activities. We invest significantly in your development because when you feel valued and supported, we can deliver the highest quality care to our patients. We are a Level 3 Disability Confident Leader, have been recognised in the Working Families Top 10 Employers benchmark for five consecutive years, and hold a Carers UK Level 1 Accreditation. Through our staff networks and training opportunities, we strive to foster a just and compassionate culture at NELFT.
