Therapist - Substance Use and Gambling

Salary negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

We are the leading third sector addiction organisation based in Guernsey, dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals affected by substance use and gambling. Our services are designed to promote long-term recovery and enhance the overall well-being of those we serve. Our team of qualified and dedicated therapists help us continue our mission of delivering evidence-based treatment and support.

To provide specialised therapeutic services to individuals struggling with problem use, supporting them through their recovery journey. This role involves conducting one-on-one therapy sessions, assessments, and developing personalised treatment plans. The therapist will work collaboratively with other team members to ensure clients receive the treatment specific to their presenting issues.

• Therapeutic Support: Provide individual therapy sessions to clients dealing with substance use and gambling problems, using evidence-based therapeutic approaches (e.g., CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing).
• Assessments: Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, and to update formulations to enable personalised treatment plans that address clients' needs, goals, and challenges.
• Treatment Planning: Regularly review and update treatment interventions in collaboration with the clinical team to ensure they are aligned with clients’ progress and evolving needs.
• Crisis Management: To consider crisis as part of structured sessions to offer insights and support during crisis situations (Independence is not a crisis service), and making the appropriate referrals to other services as necessary.
• Confidentiality and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of therapy sessions, assessments, and reviews, ensuring strict adherence to confidentiality and data protection laws.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other members of a multidisciplinary team, including staff outside of the Independence team, where required, and in line with organisational policy and legal frameworks to ensure comprehensive care.
• Client Empowerment: Promote self-awareness, personal responsibility, and long-term recovery strategies in clients by empowering them to take an active role in their change.
• Continual Professional Development: Participate in ongoing professional development and training to stay current with best practices in addiction treatment and mental health care.

• Qualification: A recognised qualification in psychotherapy, counselling, psychology, or a related field (e.g., MSc, MA, or equivalent qualification).
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years' experience working in addiction therapy or mental health settings, with a strong understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with substance use and behavioural disorders.
• Therapeutic Approaches: Experience in delivering evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
• Knowledge: A strong understanding of common mental health issues, including dual diagnosis, and the ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Licensing/Registration: Full membership or accreditation with a relevant professional body (e.g., BACP, UKCP, HCPC, or equivalent).
• Hold a valid Employment Permit.

• Skills:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills. 
• Ability to build rapport with clients and demonstrate empathy and compassion. 
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team. 
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to manage challenging situations with professionalism and composure. 
• Ability to self-reflect as an ongoing approach to supervised practice. 
• Demonstrable ability to formulate client issues as part of treatment planning. 
• Competent in the use of IT.

• Personal Attributes:
• A non-judgmental approach and a commitment to promoting inclusivity. 
• Reliable, resilient, and the ability to maintain boundaries and self-care in a demanding environment 
• Professional humility and curiosity in the context of problem solving.

Desirable Skills

• Experience working in the field of addiction recovery or rehabilitation, especially in a community-based setting.
• Knowledge of local resources and networks in Guernsey related to addiction support services.