How to become a psychological wellbeing practitioner
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying 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.
Entry requirements
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
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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.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
- a degree in a relevant subject for a degree apprenticeship
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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. You can contact your local NHS trust about work experience opportunities. You could search for paid and volunteer roles like community support worker on NHS jobs or with charities like Mind.
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.
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Career tips
Experience of working with people with mental health problems will be helpful.
Further information
You can find out more about working in as a psychological wellbeing practitioner in primary mental health care from Health Careers.