Associate Counsellor (Self-Employed)
Up to 5 Sessions Per Week – Saturdays Only
Specialist Neurodivergence Practice | Plymouth City Centre
Please read the whole application before applying. Applications without the requested information via letter will not be considered.
I am seeking a self-employed Associate Counsellor or Psychotherapist to join my small team of associates for predominantly face-to-face work on Saturdays. With scope to increase this to evening work over time if mutually agreeable.
This opportunity would suit someone who enjoys independent lone working and has an interest in counselling neurodivergent clients within a specialist practice.
The majority of enquiries received by the practice relate to Autism and ADHD, particularly supporting individuals who are exploring the possibility of being neurodivergent, awaiting assessment, or making sense of a recent diagnosis.
Referrals may include counselling, coaching, and psychoeducational elements depending on the individual’s needs.
Successful applicants will have a good understanding of the neurodivergent journey and the specific challenges that can arise from late identification, including issues relating to identity, self-esteem, masking, burnout, relationships, education, employment, and mental health.
Experience and evidence of supporting neurodivergent clients through self identification or diagnostic processes is essential.
The Role
● Self-employed associate position
● Predominantly face-to-face client work on Saturdays
● Use of a fully furnished city-centre therapy room
● Client referrals provided
● £30 per client session (open to negotiation based on experience and expertise)
● Opportunity to build an initial caseload up to approximately 5 clients per week, with scope for additional sessions by mutual agreement
This role may be particularly suited to practitioners building a private practice alongside other professional commitments.
Who This Role May Suit
● Qualified counsellors/psychotherapists/therapists (at least Level 4, degree, or equivalent)
● Registered with BACP or an equivalent professional body, with a completed Certificate of Proficiency
● Hold appropriate professional indemnity insurance and ICO registration
● Comfortable working independently with both short- and long-term therapeutic work
● An interest in, or experience of, working with neurodivergent clients
● Experience or qualifications in working with young people would be desirable but are not essential
● I particularly welcome applications from counsellors who bring unique perspectives, experiences, and ways of working to the profession and to the clients they support
I would also consider applications from placement counsellors nearing qualification with evidence of working with neurodivergence. A different fee structure would apply and can be discussed during the application process.
Additional Opportunities & Diversity
While my immediate requirement is for a counsellor to be able to offer face-to-face sessions on Saturdays, I am expanding the practice organically and would also be interested in hearing from counsellors or other skilled therapists, couples counsellors, play therapists, psychologists, and other professionals who could contribute to the diversity and representation of the practice through delivering different services, online work, or availability on other days or in different parts of the UK.
I recognise the importance of neurodivergent clients being able to access therapists and trained professionals who offer a range of skills, identities, backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences. Diverse perspectives strengthen the support available to clients, and I am committed to creating an inclusive practice that reflects the needs of diverse client groups.
I value authenticity, individuality, and the different perspectives that practitioners bring to their work, whether through lived experience, cultural background, creative thinking, or a distinctive therapeutic style.
Applications are welcomed from qualified individuals from all backgrounds, and I particularly encourage applications from individuals who are currently underrepresented within the neurodivergent counselling and support professions.
To Apply
Please send:
● A current CV
● A brief written statement outlining:
● Your experience and current stage of training and/or career goals
● Your availability
● Evidence of your ability to independently maintain a caseload
● Your understanding of how therapeutic work may need to be adapted when working with neurodivergent individuals, including how you tailor your approach to meet individual needs and move beyond a one-size-fits-all model of therapy
● Your favourite neurodivergent-informed book, podcast, or social media account
- Applications will be reviewed as they are received and the advert may close once a suitable applicant has been identified.
Pay: From £30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
