Principal Psychologist

Department: Allied Health Professionals and Psychology

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Kneesworth House

Compensation: £61,492 / year

Kneesworth House

Full-time and part-time hours available

Up to £61,492 FTE depending on experience

HCPC registration is required

Located in Royston, Hertfordshire, within a purpose-built facility and spacious grounds, Priory Hospital Kneesworth House is a level 2 rehabilitation service, which provides a range of specialist recovery pathways, all at one site.

This role offers flexibility and can be part-time or full-time. Preferred working arrangements can be discussed at interview, although they will need to align with the needs of the service.

What you'll be doing

As a Principal Psychologist, you will play a pivotal role in patient recovery, leading psychological care and ensuring high standards of treatment. Your work will directly contribute to the well-being of individuals seeking support in a purpose-built facility.

• Lead psychological care for designated wards/patients, including assessment, intervention, and evaluation.
• Work autonomously within professional and service guidelines.
• Supervise and support psychology staff, trainees, and students.
• Provide consultation, reflective practice, and staff training.
• Contribute to multidisciplinary reviews, risk assessments, and patient care planning.
• Maintain accurate clinical records and manage administrative responsibilities.
• Support service development, audits, research, and evidence-based practice.
• Oversee referrals, waiting lists, KPIs, and governance of psychological practice.
• Build effective relationships with patients, carers, staff, and external agencies.
• Maintain CPD, supervision, and compliance with Health & Safety and Mental Health Act requirements.

You can find additional information in the attached job description.

What you'll bring to the role

Essential

Applicants must hold a completed and recognised postgraduate qualification leading to HCPC registration and must be currently registered with the HCPC as a Psychologist. Applicants must also have formal training in at least two therapeutic modalities and have demonstrated relevant post-qualification experience and competencies appropriate to a Principal Psychologist role. Newly qualified psychologists or those not yet HCPC registered would not be eligible for this position.

Desirable

Experience of working in a forensic setting and/or with a forensic adult population who present with offending risk would be desirable.

What we will give you in return

We want you to succeed at Priory and thrive in your role. You will be well supported with regular career conversations. We also offer full training and numerous pathways into leadership and qualified clinical positions to help you shape your career with us.

• Free on-site parking
• Birthday Holiday - Your Birthday as an extra days annual leave
• Enhanced maternity pay
• Contributory pension scheme
• Flexible benefits including reduced rates and access to new schemes including gym membership, IT technology (laptops / tablets / smartphones) and Healthcare Cash Plan (Simply Health Scheme)
• Access to development opportunities
• Sponsorship of professional qualifications through our Individual Professional Development (IPD) panel
• Leadership & management development
• Long service award
• Refer a friend bonuses

Shortlisting may begin upon receipt of applications, and the Recruiting Manager may close the vacancy early if enough suitable candidates are identified.