Clinical or Counselling Psychologist - Irish Prison ServiceA Locum Clinical or Counselling Psychologist is required for the National Violence Reduction Unit (NVRU), Midlands Prison, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. The NVRU is in operation since 2018 and is based in the Midlands Prison, operating separately as a National Unit.The NVRU is co-led by an Assistant Governor (Operational Lead) and Senior Psychologist (Clinical Lead). It was established to provide an enhanced, psychologically informed service to those in custody experiencing high levels of psychological/mental distress and displaying high levels of violence. The men accommodated on the NVRU present complex and challenging forensic and clinical needs, requiring intensive psychological assessment, support, and intervention.A key feature of the NVRU is the enhanced role of the Psychology Service in the day-to-day management of the Unit. The NVRU is psychologically informed on multiple levels: the physical environment, staff selection and training, provision of reflective space for the team (supervision), the centrality of relational security, and the provision of psychological assessment and intervention to clients.The appointed Grade II Psychologist will support the ongoing development and running of the NVRU. All suitable referrals undergo a comprehensive four-month assessment by the Senior Psychologist and the multi-disciplinary team (MDT). Those selected will have a Care and Management Plan (CMP) developed based on this assessment. The Grade II Psychologist will be responsible for delivering bespoke, multi-modal evidence-based psychological interventions as per the CMPs, ensuring recommendations are linked to the individual’s psychological formulation. They will also supervise and support operational staff, fostering a culture that promotes a joint operational/psychological approach.The Grade II Psychologist will receive supervision, support, and line management from the Senior Psychologist for the NVRU. Facilities include an administrative office, consulting rooms, fully networked computers, and access to specialist computer programs.Psychologists in the NVRU have significant opportunities for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT) approaches are key features for both intervention and systemic work. The Psychologist will also engage in assessment and intervention in other areas of the prison estate to ensure a balanced experience.Essential qualifications and competenciesCandidates must:1. Be eligible for graduate membership of the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) or the British Psychological Society (BPS).2. (i) Hold a postgraduate professional qualification in Clinical Psychology recognized by PSI or (ii) Hold a postgraduate professional qualification in Counselling Psychology recognized by PSI.(Potential applicants considering relocating to Rep. of Ireland and who have queries about the current validation process can contact the IPS Psychology Service through CPL Healthcare for support.)Desirable but not essential requirements include:- Experience in addressing emotional, mental health, and/or offence-related difficulties with a forensic or inpatient population.- Experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma and personality difficulties.- Experience providing consultation, education, guidance, and support to multidisciplinary colleagues.- Further therapeutic or research qualifications.For further information, please contact CPL Recruitment; Brian Murray on +353 1 482 5421 / +353 872226752 or email ..... full job details .....