Clinical Psychologist

The Government of Montserrat is seeking applications from suitably qualified persons for the post of Clinical Psychologist – Child and Adolescent, within the Ministry of Health and Social Services.

The selected applicant as Clinical Psychologist will support the Ministry of Health’s efforts to provide psychological assessments, interventions and other mental health related services on the island. The Clinical Psychologist - Child and Adolescent will also be required to engage with the Ministry staff as well as the agencies and departments which offer linked services with a view of transferring and sharing of knowledge thus ensuring that there is strengthening of the human capacity and service delivery within the Government of Montserrat. 


DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

The Clinical Psychologist – Child and Adolescent will be responsible for the following: 

• Provision of high-quality clinical psychology services to the Montserrat population aimed at maintaining and in some cases restoring emotional and psychological well-being.
• Provision of support and advice to various government departments which include Medical, Social Services and Education teams in provision of programs and services to the clients which they serve.
• Sharing of knowledge and skills with various professional groups across sectors.
• Mental health promotion and prevention through public education initiatives.
• Conduct research and contribute to ongoing service improvements.
• Conduct general screenings to identify untreated mental health issues, make appropriate referrals for care, identify and address risk factors and educate the public on mental health issues.
• Provide psychological assessment and consultation services to various agencies including the Criminal/Justice system, Education and Social Services to inform case management.
• Diagnose psychological, behavioral and emotional disorders in accordance with diagnostic criteria and develop treatment plans accordingly.
• Provide therapy to groups and individuals using various evidence-based modalities.
• Respond to emergencies including suicide attempts, and provide Critical Incident Debriefing for persons experiencing traumatic life events.
• Monitor client progress through regular meetings and checkups.
• Maintain an open line of communication with other care providers, clients and significant others in order to ensure coordination of complementary services and to efficiently address emergencies.
• Collaborate with the mental health staff, social services and other trained mental health employees in other capacity to develop training programs aimed at mental health literacy and the development of social skills for targeted groups.
• Develop and disseminate culturally appropriate messages in print and electronic formats.
• Collaborate with other mental health professionals in conducting mental health awareness sessions in the community through collaboration with various community groups and organizations.
• Participate in the planning and implementation of World Mental Health Day campaign and other international mental health observances in collaboration with other professionals.
• Collaborate with the Health Promotion Unit in promoting mental health and reducing stigma through various public education and out-reach programs.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of population-based research which will inform the development of programs and services which are responsive to the needs of the population.
• Collect data, record trends and advise the Ministry of Health on required program changes. Submit monthly reports to the Chief Medical Officer which details patient data such as demographics, visits and diagnosis
• Prepare and regularly update work plans
• This plan should outline key roles/tasks and expected outputs for each calendar year.
• The Work Plan will include a time frame for key training sessions planned and development of protocols/procedures as per identified needs.
• Undertake the preparation of an end of contract report submitted with recommendations and agreed action plan prior to departure.

SELECTION CRITERIA:

Academic education level required

• Must hold a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Clinical Child & Adolescent Psychology

Experience

• Minimum 5 years working experience (post PhD qualification) in institutions that offer Child and Adolescent Psychological services.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in psychological psychometric testing
• Accreditation

Essential

• Officer must be a current member of a recognized professional accreditation or licensing body and membership should be maintained for the duration of the period of engagement.

Knowledge

• Knowledge of human behaviour and performance
• Assessment and treatment of behavioural and affective disorders.
• Knowledge of evidence-based assessment and treatment modalities.

Skills

• Excellent technical, analytical, presentation, verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Knowledge and Skills in the principles and practices in Counselling
• Report writing skills
• Computer literacy
• Conflict resolution and mediation skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Abilities

Should have the ability to:

• Use initiative and work independently
• Manage caseload and assist in the management of various initiatives while meeting deadlines
• Demonstrate knowledge and experience in industry trends
• Exercise good judgment, integrity and discretion when handling confidential information
• Negotiate and communicate effectively
• Prepare written documents to support proposals
• Review existing protocols and revise accordingly
• Contribute to the formulation of policies governing mental health services in Montserrat.
• Participate in clinical management conferences
• Assess clients and develop treatment and interventional care plans
• Plan, facilitate and deliver training workshops
• Relate to a wide range of people

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Appointment will be made on a contractual basis for a period of three (3) years.  



REMUNERATION PACKAGE

The Remuneration package for the post of clinical Psychologist – Child and Adolescent will be commensurate with Qualifications and Experience of the successful applicant.