Specialist Mental Health Practitioner

Overview

In this role you contribute to a Thames Valley-wide program for children and young people with complex needs, implementing a trauma-informed, integrated care framework. You will work in interprofessional teams, provide direct clinical input, and support development and research to improve outcomes for vulnerable young people. The position involves multi-agency collaboration, professional development, and data collection for service evaluation. This is an opportunity to shape specialist CAMHS practice within a broader, cross-organisational context.

Pay / Benefits

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• NHS Pension scheme
• Lease car scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Mental Health First Aiders

Responsibilities

• Provide expert care to patients on caseload within CAMHS, including assessments, treatment, supervision, and consultation
• Offer specialist advice and supervision to other professionals delivering complex interventions
• Exercise professional autonomy in decision-making where precedents are absent
• Utilise highly specialised skills acquired through extensive training and practice
• Manage referrals and conduct advanced history taking as required
• Set and improve standards of practice across disciplines and organisational boundaries
• Develop professional practice for self and others within the expert field
• Provide guidance and strategic input for planning and education of staff and partner agencies
• Identify learning needs at individual, team, and organisational levels
• Contribute to service development, research, and data collection for outcome evaluation
• Lead in multi-agency consultation and specialist assessments
• Support the clinical lead in ongoing service development and research
• Ensure accessibility and quality of service delivery to children, families, and professionals

Key requirements

• Registration with UK professional body (RMN, OT, Social Worker, or Psychological Therapist)
• Experience of working with young people in mental health settings
• Knowledge of Safeguarding Children legislation and guidance
• Mentoring and clinical supervision experience
• Formal leadership skills and experience
• Ability to solve complex problems
• Current UK professional registration
• Driving licence and access to a vehicle for work (required)
• DBS check on onboarding

• Excellent communication and interpersonal liaison
• Collaboration across disciplines and agencies
• Adaptability and flexibility in service delivery
• Experience with trauma-informed practice
• Knowledge of neurodevelopmental needs in youth
• Experience in multi-agency collaboration and consultation

…