We are looking to recruit a Trainee Psychological Therapist (High Intensity CBT Therapists) to work in one of our Dorset CAMHS teams.
To apply, you must meet the criteria for CBT training and also have a BABCP-recognised professional background in mental health or related areas. This means having a recognised Core Profession. to check if you have a recognised Core Profession here
If you do not have a Core Profession, you must complete a portfolio of evidence to show that you have equivalent training and experience. This is known as the Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes portfolio (KSA). If applying via the KSA route, you must have completed a self-statement for KSA criterion 4 before interview and, if successful at interview, will need to prepare the other required sections ahead of the start of the course (including obtaining references). Please see the BABCP website for guidance and exemplars.
If you have undertaken low-intensity CBT training (e.g., PWP, CWP or EMHP) you must have at least 2 years’ experience between the exam board of your previous training (not just coursework completion or a letter from the department) and the start date of any high-intensity training. This is nationally mandated and is there are no exceptions; you will be asked to evidence your exam board date (or date of graduation certificate if no evidence of exam board) prior to invite to interview.
The course is due to start in January 2026 and successful candidates will need to start at this time.
The successful candidates will undertake a 12 month training course at Exeter University. During this time, you will be trained to provide High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural therapy within a stepped care model for children and young people with common mental health problems, including depression and a range of anxiety disorders. You are required to attend training at the University for a minimum of two days a week and working with a caseload of patients within service three days a week. There may also be an element of online learning.
Trainees can work flexibly, and we offer a combination of face to face and remote work. The successful candidate will provide high intensity CBT within a stepped care model. We provide regular clinical supervision in a variety of formats to support you.
The course you will be completing at the University of Exeter as part of this role is a Level 2 accredited course with BABCP. This means that upon completion trainees will meet criteria to apply for provisional accreditation as a CBT therapist with the BABCP.
On completion of the course, there may be opportunities for trainees progress to a period of supported preceptorship. This offers enhanced supervision, peer support meetings, and a reduced and triaged caseload. The Preceptorship will normally last 8-12 months and when complete leads to a permanent Band 7 post.
At Dorset HealthCare we’re on a mission to empower people to make the most of their lives through our outstanding, joined-up healthcare services. We’re a dynamic, forward-looking Trust, running 12 community hospitals, specialist inpatient facilities and a wide range of integrated community and mental health services for a population of almost 800,000 people.
We do things differently here – it’s one of the reasons the CQC rated us ‘outstanding’ in 2019. It’s also why 95% of patients across our services say they have a good or very good experience of our services and 89% of staff feel they can really make a difference. Whether you’re looking to work with us in one of our bustling market towns, vibrant urban locations, thriving seaside spots, or among the rolling hills of Dorset, there are lots of ways you can make a difference in our communities.
Our 7,000-strong workforce is at the heart of what we do and our success is a testament to our brilliant people. We’re all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be authentic, and we are all encouraged to be the best version of ourselves.
Working with us you’ll be part of a strong team, challenge yourself, build a career, and teach us what we don’t know. And you’ll be working towards our vision to be better every day through excellence, compassion and expertise in all we do.
For the main duties and responsibilities for this role please read the attached job description and person specification. When completing your application please ensure your supporting statement reflects the criteria set out in these documents by showing how your experience and skills apply to this post.
As part of our vision to have a skilled, diverse and caring workforce, Dorset HealthCare offers support for people getting into work. We offer an employability service to support individuals with application writing, interview skills and other employment support. If you would like or know of anyone who would value this support, please do contact dhc.wideningparticipation@nhs.net
This is a fixed term role and for those with current NHS service, the role will be offered on a secondment basis only. Please obtain permission to be released on a secondment before submitting an application.
Applications from candidates that require current Healthcare worker sponsorship to work in the UK are unfortunately ineligible to apply for this position

Please refer the Job description for details