Counsellor

BIMM University is seeking a compassionate and experienced Counsellor to join our Student Wellbeing Team on a freelance basis. This is a vital role in supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of our students, ensuring they receive high-quality therapeutic support in line with the BACP Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

You will offer in-person and online counselling sessions, working closely with students to address a range of issues, including the unique challenges faced by young adults and creative individuals. You will also collaborate with the Student Wellbeing Team to manage complex cases, facilitate onward referrals, and contribute to the overall success of the counselling service.

What You’ll do:

• Deliver professional counselling services both on-site at BIMM University campuses and online, ensuring ethical standards are met in line with BACP guidelines.
• Maintain a caseload of individual clients, providing intake assessments and ongoing sessions.
• Liaise with the Student Wellbeing Team, particularly in cases involving significant mental health needs.
• Manage clinical risk, making safeguarding referrals as necessary, and ensure compliance with relevant legislation and codes of practice.
• Complete and maintain accurate records of counselling sessions, adhering to BIMM’s processes and GDPR guidelines.
• Participate in regular clinical supervision and provide supervision to members of the Student Wellbeing Team as needed.
• Facilitate referrals to external services where appropriate, supporting students in accessing additional resources.
• Engage with professional networks to stay updated on best practices in counselling and higher education.

What You’ll Bring:

• Substantial post-qualification experience as a therapeutic practitioner, with a strong ability to manage complex and challenging cases.
• Extensive experience in individual counselling within a higher education or similar institutional setting, with an understanding of the pressures facing students and creative minds.
• Proven ability to motivate and support change in individuals through brief focal therapy.
• A deep understanding of relevant legislation, including Equality, Diversity, and Safeguarding, and experience applying these in a counselling setting.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in maintaining confidential records, with strong attention to detail and an understanding of GDPR requirements.
• Computer literacy, including the use of Microsoft Office.

Desirable Qualifications

• Accredited by BACP (or equivalent professional body).
• Supervision qualification and experience providing clinical supervision.
• Experience working with young adults and familiarity with Microsoft Teams.
• Awareness of current research on mental health issues and treatment options available through the NHS.