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The role of Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner and career progression

With Improving Access to Psychological Therapy (IAPT) services expanding and developing their workforce in line with objectives set out in the Mental Health Five Year Forward View it is an exciting time to be a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP).

The role is an integral part of IAPT services and has evolved since the programme began in 2008. Career opportunities are developing, the PWP role is becoming established and recognised, and is now a popular career path for many. Heather Stonebank explains more.

My IAPT journey began in 2008 when I started training as a PWP; ever since I have been extremely passionate and committed to the PWP role and motivated by its impact and ability to improve the lives of people experiencing anxiety and depression.

The PWP role sits within step two of the mental health stepped care model – providing low intensity cognitive behavioural-based interventions for people experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression. The aim of stepped care is to provide the least intrusive and most appropriate level of care to meet the needs of the person.

The PWP workforce provides short-term, evidence-based treatments in line with NICE guidance to help people manage their symptoms. As PWPs, we work with people to equip them with the tools and techniques they need to manage anxiety and depression effectively and work towards their goals. Our aim is to help people make positive changes to improve their wellbeing and quality of life.

The PWP role is fast-paced, varied and constantly evolving with the evidence base and guidance. IAPT services around the country strive to meet the needs of people who need to access services. Therefore, PWPs offer a wide range of treatments, including telephone and online treatment, computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programmes, psycho-educational groups, courses, workshops and one-to-one work. Adapting what we offer to make our treatments accessible is a critical characteristic of IAPT services.

The PWP role is integral to IAPT services. As a PWP, treating a large majority of people who access the service is incredibly rewarding. I have seen first-hand the positive impact the treatments can have on someone’s life. From supporting a patient to overcome panic attacks and being able to visit their local supermarket to helping a patient understand and manage depression to achieve their goal of socialising with friends again – it really can make such a difference. It is a privilege to work alongside a person, be part of their journey to help them manage anxiety and depression. For me, this is why I am an advocate for the role.

There is a wide range of career opportunities open to PWPs, which start from developing special interests within areas such as older adults, perinatal mental health, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities, and supporting people who are managing long-term health conditions. Other career development opportunities range from senior PWPs, lead PWPs, clinical educators and IAPT managers. Some PWPs may also go on to become CBT therapists or embark on a career in clinical psychology. With the role becoming more established and recognised, there are many more exciting doors to open and future career development opportunities.

I feel extremely privileged to be a Lead PWP in Sheffield IAPT and Clinical Advisor in Yorkshire and the Humber Clinical Network. I have an insight into national, regional and local topics for IAPT services and the opportunity to contribute at a strategic level and influence change. My contribution from a clinical perspective has been welcomed and valued by colleagues, and I believe this is a fantastic development for the role and its future influence at a strategic level.

I am passionate about bringing the workforce together to share best practice, learn from each other and generate innovative ideas, also working in partnership with other services to provide the best quality of care. Yorkshire and the Humber Regional Senior PWP Network is a great example of this; we are currently working together on how we can support the wellbeing of the workforce and improve access for different patient populations.

My vision is to continue to develop the role, support the workforce, share best practice and provide clinical leadership to contribute to developing IAPT services and patient care. I am very much looking forward to continuing on this career path and working alongside other healthcare professionals to provide high quality patient care.

Heather Stonebank

Heather Stonebank is Lead Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner for Sheffield Improving Access to Psychological Therapies Service (IAPT), a role in which she provides clinical leadership for the PWP workforce.

Heather has 11 years’ experience of working in mental health services within Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation Trust, working as part of Sheffield’s drug and alcohol team and on an acute mental health ward.

In October 2016 she was recruited into the Yorkshire and the Humber Clinical Network, NHS England, on secondment as a Lead PWP Clinical Advisor.

She is also co-chair of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies Low Intensity Special Interest Group.

Heather has a keen interest in research to inform guidelines and clinical practice, is a member of the Northern Practice Research Network and has been involved in several research studies which have reached publication.

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195 comments

  1. Mary-Jay Baker says:

    Need to know what qualifications I will require to move forward with an application in this field

  2. Sarah says:

    Hi
    I’m hoping I can get some advise on the best direction to go for becoming a PWP. I am currently taking a certHE in psychology, my original goal was to continue with the undergraduate degree of 4years which is BPS registered and then apply however after some research, rather than take the full degree should I finish after the first 16months obtaining my certHE and then apply for the PWP apprenticeship level 6. Would this be a possible, quicker and less expensive route for me? I currently have 10 years experience working within social care supporting individuals with a range of mental health and complex needs and within the 10 years I have worked in low secure unit hospital environments and residential settings while achieving a health and social care NVQ. With my experience and the certHE which are my best options? Many thanks Sarah

  3. Jordan Ball says:

    Hi Heather,

    It was great to read about your journey as a PWP. I am currently going into my third and final year of University studying Psychology. I currently work for the NHS as a Bank Healthcare Support Worker in a mental health service. Do you have any advice for someone who is looking to start PWP training as soon as I leave university next year?

    Many thanks,

    Jordan

  4. Rachel Hussein says:

    I am looking into PWP training. Is a mental health practitioner the same as a psychological wellbeing practitioner?

    Thank you

    • Amy L says:

      Hiya Heather,

      I was just wondering when the best time to apply for trainee jobs would be ? When did you apply? I know the courses are usually in line with the academic year.

      I also have a Psychology degree and I currently work in the NHS as a receptionist and do some care coordination too. I wondered what you thought in terms of if this would be enough experience?

      Thanks 🙂

  5. Nasreen says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am starting my counselling diploma and would like the opportunity to volunteer and shadow at the IAPT service Sheffield.

  6. Su says:

    Dear Heather
    Thank you for sharing your inspirational journey!
    I am a clinical nurse practitioner considering applying for a high intensity training post. I wondered if you perhaps knew whether if successful I. Would have to give up my nursing pin?
    Many thanks in advance if you can help with the answer.
    Kind regards,
    Su

  7. Mpokeleng lehlohla says:

    Looking for a training as a pwp please help me

  8. Nev says:

    Hi Heather.

    I’ve got a psychology degree already. In terms of training as a pwp what would i
    I need further. Ideally i would probably enrol next year..due to the covid pandemic.
    Thanks. Nev.

  9. James Bennion says:

    Hi I’m James. It’s good you did so well .
    So if I became aipt, what’s on my training ?
    How long are sessions . With each patient ?
    How many years will it’d take me to train to for a role as an aipt?

  10. steph says:

    I have been looking at retraining as a PWP for a while now, and have signed up for some mental health volunteering. I am wondering if I stand much chance of getting a traineeship without a psychology degree, or whether I should look at a conversion? Any advice you have about how to improve chances would be gratefully appreciated.

    I currently work in Communications, so not a related field.

  11. Charlene Arnold says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am currently looking to have a career change to become an adult mental health counsellor. I’ve been told training to become a PWP is the best route, I wondered if you could help me with any advice on courses etc that I can take to help my chances with getting a job in this role? It’s all a bit confusing. I have a degree in criminology and sociology, will this help towards any training or am I looking at going back to a 3 year course? Kind regards,

    Charlene Arnold

  12. Ciara says:

    Hi Heather,

    The blog is great and gives a fantastic insight to the ‘day in the life of’. It really inspired me and gave me confidence to explore my options for the future. I’d love to hear more great advice either over the phone or email if that would be okay?

    Thanks,
    Ciara

    • Heather says:

      Hi Ciara

      Thanks so much for your lovely message, I am pleased the blog has been helpful. Yes of course more than happy to have a chat, send me an email and we can arrange a call.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  13. Roberta says:

    Hi Heather. I’m currently in my third year of undergraduate study (psychology and criminology). I am indecisive on an option for a masters as of yet. My two options are between ‘investigative and forensic psychology’ and ‘occupational and organisational psychology’. I really want to be able to do a masters in something that I have the ability to access different avenues if required. I’m fascinated and passionate about mental health and the mind overall. However, unsure what would be best for myself (especially given the Covid restrictions). Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Roberto

      Thanks so much for your message, these options sound very interesting. It would be probably best speaking to a careers advisor at your University for the best advice. I wish you all the best.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  14. Toni says:

    Hi Heather

    I am looking into a career as a PWP and wondered if I was to start working as a trainee and complete my qualification working with adults would the qualification apply to work as a children’s and young persons PWP?

    Thanks
    Toni

    • N says:

      Hi Toni,

      As someone who completed my training with adults and then moved to a CWP post a few months after qualifying, it seems to be entirely up to the discretion of the hiring organisation. The main differences between adult PWPs and CWP posts involve learning to deliver parent-led CBT and using more of a values-based approach to Behavioural Activation. I’ve got an interview lined up for a CAMHS service and have heard that two of the clinical leads there are adults trained so I wouldn’t rule it out.

      Take care,

      N

    • Heather says:

      Hi Toni

      Thank you for your message, the courses for adult and children PWP roles are different, therefore if you trained in a PWP trainee role working with adults this would only qualify you to work with adults and not children and young persons from my understanding. I hope that is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  15. Jilly Kosar says:

    Dear Heather, I hope you’re well. Your blog is very inspiring.

    I am interested in taking the PWP route as my career path.

    I would appreciate it if I could have a telephone conversation to discuss my options. Thank you

    • Heather says:

      Hi Jilly

      Thanks for your kind words and message, yes of course happy to have a conversation. Please contact me via my email and we can arrange.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  16. Lisa Spink says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am Currently studying a part time OU BSc (Honours) Psychology with Counselling course to change career. The career path I would really like to take is the role you have as a PWP and so was very pleased to have found your Blog (that is very clear and inspiring) linked to the careers page of the OU.
    Please could you lend some advice on how I could gain some work experience/training for this role during my studies.

    Many Thanks,
    Lisa.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Lisa

      Many thanks for your kind words, I am so pleased to hear you are interested in the role. Yes of course more than happy to offer advice. Glad you found the blog and pages helpful. Regarding experience for the role, it would be helpful to have either voluntary or employed experience in working in mental health also. Happy to have a chat over the phone to advise further.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Nm says:

      Hi Heather lovely to read your blog, inspiring and encouraging for anyone wanting to pursue a career in mental health, I am interested in applying for a pwp role but keep failing at application stage, would it be possible to have a chat with you to get some more advice thanks

      • Heather says:

        Hi

        Thanks for your message, more than happy to have a chat if you would like to email me and we can arrange.

        Best Wishes

        Heather

  17. Paul Callan says:

    Can somebody advise me how I can train for this role.. I do have a degree & would like to train as a practitioner. Do I have to complete a post graduate or can I train on the job?

    • Heather says:

      Hi Paul

      Thanks for enquiry, the best way to complete the training is to apply for a Trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner in an IAPT service. Where you will train on the job. If you would like any more information or have anymore questions. Just let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Heather says:

      Hi Paul

      Thanks so much for your comment, yes the usual route is training on the job and you would need to apply for a PWP trainee post with your local IAPT service, you can look out for these jobs in your local and surrounding areas and set up an alert on NHS jobs. It is important to also have some experience whether that be voluntary or paid employment of working in mental health. I do hope this is helpful and there are lots of useful links in the comments below which will help you with learning more about the role.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  18. Sam says:

    Dear Heather, great to read about your background. Very inspiring. I have tried for several years now to get a trainee PWP role but never get any response from my applications. I am a qualified nutritionist, health and lifestyle fitness consultant and massage therapist but have been working in an admin capacity for the NHS for sometime to make ends meet. I worked for SLaM for 6yrs in forensic mental health and fell in love with this subject. I had the opportunity to volunteer as a mentor/facilitator for six months with forensic mental health patients helping them with anger management. I learnt so much and desperately wanted to move my career in that direction. Unfortunately I keep coming up against a brick wall as I cannot afford to return to Uni to study psychology to do CBT and am not getting anywhere with trainee PWP applications even though I was told they accept people with life skills and not just psychology graduates. Is that right? Are you able to advise please. Thank you

    • Heather says:

      Hi Sam

      Thanks for your message and kind words. I am pleased you have found my blog useful. Sounds like you have a lot of relevant experience. I know competition for these posts is quite high. It’s important to make sure you demonstrate all of the essential criteria in the person specification and demonstrate a good understanding of the role too. Happy to have a conversation if that would be helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Sophie says:

      can you do an open uni course online – thye do psychology and counselling and mental health nursing.

  19. Magdalena sadler says:

    Dear Heather
    I like to start studying to become a pwp. It is Alot of different courses on line would any of them educate me enough to become a pwp or have more of an chance to get a job as a pwp or trainee pwp.
    Regards
    Magdalena

    • Heather says:

      Hi Magdalena

      Thanks for your message, in order to become a PWP you would need to apply for a trainee PWP post as this is the only way to qualify to be a PWP. I hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  20. Paul McCabe says:

    Hi Heather. I hope you are safe and well.I have read your post and you have really inspired me to train to become a pwp. I am a student studying a couselling diploma and I am very interested in training to become a pwp in my local area which is Lytham St Anne’s in Lancashire.I wanted to ask you where do I start regarding training to work in this field.Any advice would be much appreciated.Thankyou
    Paul McCabe

    • Heather says:

      Hi Paul

      Thanks so much for your kind words. I am so pleased you would like to purse a career in this profession. My advice would be to find out your local IAPT services and can ask when the PWP trainee posts will be advertised and can also set up an alert on NHS jobs. If you would like any further advice just let me know and I wish you all the best.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  21. mariam says:

    Hi Heather,

    I have being a qualified PWP for nearly a year now and i was wondering if you had any advice on how i could make progress in this career.

    Thanks

    • Heather says:

      Hi Mariam

      Thanks for getting in contact there are lots of potential routes of career progression in the role. From supervisor, SPWP, Lecturer. Happy to have a chat if you would like to explore options.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  22. Sophia says:

    Hi Heather,

    Hi Heather, I’m really interested in training to become a PWP, and would like further info. After qualifying as a PWP, would I be contractually obliged to work for the service who trained me for one or two years? And if for some reason I was unable to, would I be liable for repaying training costs?

    I’ve worked as a teacher for 8 years, mainly in FE with different groups of vulnerable young people & adults. I’m also about to qualify as a counsellor, and now have over a hundred clinical hours in counselling. Would it improve my chances if I studied an online CBT course? (I’ve found one for about £600 which equates to around 300 hours of study time)

    Alongside the PWP CBT training posts, I recently saw a PWP training post for Person Centred Experiential counselling post, which looks amazing. However, I live in the Southwest, & I’ve not seen this role advertised locally. Do you know if it’s a new scheme, and if it might be rolled out across the UK?

    Kind regards,

    Sophia

    • Heather says:

      Hi Sophia

      Thank you for getting in contact, so pleased to hear you wish to pursue a career in this profession. You wouldn’t be obliged to work for the service, not to my knowledge. There are often job opportunities within the service you train within other services. The CBT course is not necessarily going to give you advantage as this is a training course you will learn the skills you need, its going to be more helpful to reference your experience and demonstrate your understanding of the role. I am not sure regarding the scheme you mention. I wish you all the best in applying for the role.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  23. Svenja says:

    Hi Heather, thanks for your article. I am a teacher and manage the a part of the special educational needs area at my school. I worked as an outreach worker with a homeless charity last year so supported people with mental health issues and substance abuse. I would like to go into a therapy career and wonder if I have relevant experience to apply to be a PWP. I think all my skills are transferable but i don’t know how competitive the application process is. Any advice would be great !

    • Heather says:

      Hi Svenja

      Thanks for you kind words, sounds like you have a lot of relevant experience and transferrable skills. My advice would be to ensure you meet all the essential criteria in the Person Specification. Competition is high so make it easy for the person who is short listing. Make it clear you meet the criteria. Understand the PWP role and get to know the service you are applying to, check out their website. If you have any questions, just let me know. Set an alert up on NHS jobs to alert you to PWP trainee jobs in the area. Good luck with applying.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  24. Bob says:

    Hi Heather,

    I have been qualified as a PWP for 1 year now. A unique opportunity has arisen in my service of the role of a Senior PWP. You typically need 2 years + experience as a PWP to be eligible for this role however, a recent Senior PWP had to step in the place of Team Manager as the previous Team Manager left the role due to unknown circumstances therefore our service has opened this opportunity to PWPs who have been qualified for 1 year only. I applied and have an interview and I wondered if I could ask you some questions about the role in preparation for the interview? That would be a fantastic help. Thanks

    Kind regards,

    Bobby

    • Heather says:

      Hi Bobby

      Congratulations on the opportunity.

      Yes of course, more than happy to arrange a chat to talk about the interview.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Lew says:

      Hi Heather,
      I am a final year student studying BSc in Psychology/criminal behaviour and Iam due to graduate in September.I have applied for a job as a trainee PWP in Birmingham &solihull mental health service .I have been successful in my application, could you please advice me about the interview.Questions and stuff they expect from the applicants please.I just hope I get the job .

      Thanks in advance.

  25. Mark says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am a recent masters graduate in Health Psychology. I graduated in September.

    I would really like to apply for one of these positions in my area, but have limited clinical experience. Do you have any advice on how I go about getting some so I could get on the training program?

    You see I’m a wheelchair user, and don’t feel I am able to be a support worker, like many people do to get experience.

    Any advice would be great.

    Many thanks

    Mark.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Mark

      Thanks so much for your message and interest in the role. Regarding clinical experience there are various ways of obtaining this experience either through paid or voluntary employment. For example some people gain this experience from a voluntary role in Samaritans. I would think about the PWP role and all the transferrable skills you have too, happy to have a conversation over the phone if this would be helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  26. Maxine Roscoe says:

    Hello, I will be graduating in july for my BSc Psychology with a 2:1 (hopefully), I’ve worked as a bank HCA for the NHS for approx 5 years now. I’m looking at going on to do my Masters in applied clinical psychology but recently come across PWP posts and highly interested. What would be my options to progression with a PWP post? Is it similar to the band 4 Assistant paractioner position. Are there any formal qualification that I would achieve whilst training? Sorry for the million and one questions just want to be sure before I begin applying. Also would it be possible to get your email for advice in the near future. Many Thanks. Maxine

    • Heather says:

      Hi Maxine

      Thanks for your message and interest in the role, the main requirements to apply for PWP trainee post are the ability to study at post graduate level and experience in working in mental health. Yes if you were to pursue the PWP trainee route you would gain a qualification in a Post graduate certificate in Low Intensity Psychological Interventions, which would enable you to work as a qualified PWP. See links below for an insight in the role, yes of course more than happy to be contacted. My email address is on the article above. Look forward to hearing from you.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  27. Sarah says:

    Hi Heather, I am passionate about pursuing a trainee PWP position but I am specifically interested in perinatal mental health. I have a First class degree in an unrelated subject but have worked in mental health and forensic services as a support worker and peer mentor for several years, which has led me to want to become a trainee PWP. Aside from academic research I wondered how I might be able to learn more about the support and interventions available to the perinatal client group within IAPT services. Are there any specific resources online you could possibly recommend for further research?

    • Heather says:

      Hi Sarah

      Thanks for your message and interest in the role, sounds like you have some good experience and transferrable skills. Yes of course, happy to have a chat about this over the phone to discuss, if you would like to drop me an email.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

      • Sameen Pervez says:

        Hi Heather. I had previously sent you an email mid January but didn’t receive as reply. However, I’ve emailed you again so could you please get in touch with me as i would be really beneficial to speak to you regarding what I can do to improve my chances of securing a trainee pwp post. I have introduced myself in the email and what i have studied and my current job role too so you have a bit of background information about me too.

  28. Jo says:

    Hi Heather, I would like to apply for PWP training, but I am not totally sure how the application process works! Is there a certain time of year when PWP opportunities are more available? I have tried searching around for some but have not had much luck so far! I’m also a bit unsure whether I have enough experience. I did a placement year working in a neuro psychology setting and continued to work their as Staff Bank, but besides this I do not have much other mental health work experience! Would really appreciate your advice.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Jo

      Thanks for getting in contact, its great to hear you would like to apply for the role. The training at University usually starts in March and October, therefore places are usually advertised a few months before. It would be worth contacting your local IAPT services to see when these opportunities are coming up. My advice would be to gain as much mental health experience as you can, it maybe in a voluntary role. Think about the skills involved in the PWP role and what transferable skills you have. There are some useful links in the replies below to info about the role. The application process works by IAPT services advertising trainee PWP roles. If your local IAPT service is an NHS service it would be worth setting an alert on NHS jobs to alert you to the posts coming out. I would also research the IAPT service you are applying to, look at their website. Hope this is helpful, if you would like to discuss further, do let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  29. C says:

    Hi Heather,

    I’m prepping for a trainee PWP interview and was wondering if you had any tips for me?

    There wasn’t much on the person specification (it was almost entirely blank!) and I’m very nervous because I really want the role!

    I have a degree in psychology and have completed two mental health work placements abroad working as an activity support worker. I’ve worked as admin in IAPT before and did some weeks working with the assessment team. My current job is working as a HCSW in a rehab mental health unit.

    • Heather says:

      Hi there

      First of all, good luck prepping for the role.

      I would definitely visit the website of the IAPT service you are applying for and maybe contact them to, do your research and know what they offer at step 2.

      It sounds like you have some good experience and skill set to bring to the role so think about the skills involved in being a PWP, there are some links in the previous replies and think about the transferrable skills and experience you have gained from previous roles.

      Good luck applying for the role and do let me know if you have any other questions.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  30. Georgie says:

    Hello!

    I am currently a qualified Children’s wellbeing practitioner but have been offered a trainee PWP post. I am wondering if you could tell me the potential routes of progression for an adult PWP? I am aware that progression within the Children’s IAPT programme is limited. This would very much help me make my decision as to whether it’s worth training again! Best wishes

    • Heather says:

      Hello Georgie

      Thanks for your message, congrats on being offered a PWP trainee post, that’s great news.

      Is the PWP trainee post within Young persons or adult IAPT?

      As the PWP role is established within Adult there are lots of opportunities for career progression and development.

      Happy to have a chat over the phone to explain more details and to help inform your decision if that would be helpful?

      If you would like to, drop me an email and we can arrange a time to speak.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  31. John says:

    Personally, my experience of psychological wellbeing practitioners was awful. The lady spent the first five minutes having a go at me. As I was already struggling with anxiety this did not help.

    • Heather says:

      Hi John

      I am sorry to hear you did not have a good experience of seeing a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. You can contact your local Improving Access to Psychological Therapies Service to speak to them about your experience and to look at alternative options.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  32. Rony says:

    Dear Ms Stonebank,

    I am medical doctor from Bangladesh with 3 years experience as duty doctor in Neuro and Medical ICU, back in my country. I have recently qualified as a PWP and have received an interview offer for Senior PWP post,despite having recently qualified. I am uncertain at this point as to, what questions to expect at the interview. I am also unsure what kind of experience and skills they are looking in a potential candidate. I am a bit worried if I can sell myself well enough for the position. I am very enthusiastic about the role and I’m confident that I am capable to learn and manage the new responsibilties quickly, should I be successful in the interview.

    Any advise will be greatly appreciated!

    • Heather says:

      Hello

      Thank you for your message. Generally the role of a Senior PWP requires you to have the IAPT supervision qualification and experience of supervising PWPs. Also clinically confidence with a period of consolidation after qualifying and evidence of development in the role since qualifying. My advice would be to read the job description and personal specification and ensure you meet the essential criteria and evidence this with examples. Hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  33. Suzie says:

    Hi,
    I’m really interested in your journey of progression.
    I am a qualified children’s PWP working within CAMHS. It appears that progression within CAMHS/NHS is limited as a PWP because anything above a band 6 senior PWP position currently requires professional registration and/or high intensity training.
    In order to progress further what would you recommend?
    Or, as this position is relatively new within children’s services, do you think this will change over time as the role becomes more established?
    Would appreciate your opinion.
    Thanks

    • Heather says:

      Hi Suzie

      Thanks so much for your message and enquiry. I do agree that it’s early days and perhaps a career pathway will develop for PWPs in CAMHS, as it has in adult IAPT services, it may be that you could take this forward. If you were interested in working in adult IAPT services you could apply for a trainee PWP position in an IAPT service. If you would like to chat about the development of the PWP role in adult services, let me know and we can arrange a call. Hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  34. Jenny says:

    Hi Heather,

    After gaining a job as a pwp how can you progess into training to become a cbt therapist? Is it possible to train as a cbt therapist with a psychology (bsc) degree and then experience as a pwp for few years, ive also got experience working in mental health hospital as a health care assistant too(3years experience).
    Hope to hear from you soon.

    Jenny

  35. Holly Betton says:

    Hi Heather,
    I am hoping to apply for a trainee PWP post and wondered if you could offer some advice on how I could improve my chances of being selected for this course. I have a degree in Textiles so am not from psychology background, although I do have an A-Level in it. I currently work as a communications officer at a women’s therapy charity along with running my own creative business. I’ve also worked in a secondary school for 8 years as a teaching assistant/technician.  I know that spaces on these courses are highly competitive so I want to build on my experience in working with people with mental health issues. I have applied to volunteer at Mind but I wondered whether it would be useful for me to do a short psychology course? In short, what I am asking is, what do I need to do in order to give myself the best chance of getting selected for the PWP training programme considering my previous experience and qualifications? Any help or advice you could provide would be great!

    • Heather says:

      Hi Holly

      Thank you for your message and interest in the role of a PWP. Sounds like you have lots of great and relevant experience for the role and are already preparing well with your voluntary role in Mind too. If you already have a degree, this is enough to demonstrate you can work at post graduate level. Please see the links below for more info on the role. My advice would be to do your research about the IAPT service you are applying too and the role itself, match all of the essential criteria and some of the desirable too as much as you can on the Person Specification and demonstrate this in your personal statement. Making reference to all the transferable skills you have and also gain experience in mental health which you are doing with your role in Mind. If you require more info, feel free to email me. Hope this is helpful.
      Good luck in applying. 🙂

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  36. Festa Nwadike says:

    Dear Ms. Stonebank
    I hold MSc mental health and wellbeing of children and Adolescents. I was not sent for a placement by the University so I have no clinical experience to enable me work as a mental health nurse. I was told by my lecturer that my degree was academic. I am finding it difficult to get registered by a professional body and progress in my job hunting because the job requirements keeps asking which professional body that I am registered. Earlier before this MSC degree I had trained to hold a Diploma in Education and training level 5 in further Education but they wouldn’t let me teach except I gain QTS which will cost me £3600.00
    I really need your best advise on which pathway to follow. I have already applied to get trained as EMHP a post graduate certificate which is for another 1yr duration. I am feeling depressed having to undergo through education over and over again.
    Is there any shorter training for my level of education. Please help me.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Festa

      I am sorry to hear about your difficulties in progressing your career. I am probably not the best person placed to advise you in this area as this is not my area of expertise. Is there a careers advisor in your local area where you could contact to arrange a discussion to help problem solve next steps. I hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  37. Shubhnam Bhamber says:

    Dear Ms. Stonebank,

    Hope you are having a nice day.

    I am an IT consultant with over 15 yrs of experience and 42 yrs of age, is it possible for me to pursue a career as a PWP?

    Though I don’t have any background in psychology, I am very passionate about human well-being and feel that I can contribute in a positive manner in this field.

    Hope to see a response from you soon.


    Regards
    Shubhnam Bhamber

    • Heather says:

      Hi Shubhnam

      Thank you for your message, I hope you are having a lovely day too.

      Thank you for your interest in this role. My advice would be to try and gain some experience in volunteering or paid employment in mental health. I would also speak to your local IAPT service to talk to them about what you would need to do to prepare yourself for the role of a PWP. Also thinking about your current skills and how these could be applied to the role of the PWP. Please see links in comments below for further info about the role, if you have any more questions, please let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  38. Joanna Hart says:

    Hello Heather,

    My situation is a bit complicated. I wonder if you can give me some advice.
    I finished a PG Diploma in CBT four years ago, but I didn’t go for BABCP accreditation. I have been doing quite a lot of work in CBT and worked for 3 years for the Anxiety Uk providing CBT from low to severe case presentations and also worked for 2 large Uni’s in London doing CBT. Just to clarify my first year was the PG Certificate in CBT (more low inte) as such but I haven’t got IAPT experience but lots of experience in CBT and child adolescent counselling as I am a qualified teacher as well (worked for 17 years) .
    I am applying now as a home working PWP as for the past year I have been working remotely (providing digital therapy) .
    Do you think I have chances of getting somewhere as a PWP on a remote basis ? I have tailored my CV though and empasize low intensity than CBT complex presentations.
    Would be great to share your thoughts
    So many thanks(Accredited NCP-forgot to tell)
    Joanne

    • Heather says:

      Hi Joanne

      Thanks for your email, sounds like you have lots of relevant experience and transferable skills for a PWP role in IAPT. Do you have the specific IAPT Post Graduate Certificate in Low Intensity Interventions? As this is required to work in IAPT services. Happy for you to email me and we can discuss further.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  39. Komal says:

    Hi, i am interesting become psychological well-being practitioner. I am doing BSc in psychology and want to more further information.

  40. Shirley Connellan says:

    Hi thanks for a really informative article. I have a question. I have worked as a HCSW on an acute psychiatric ward for 6 years and have done a PGdip in Mental Health Recovery. Would this experience and degree help in applying for the PWO training.

  41. Julie Shipton says:

    Hi
    I am interested in becoming a Psychological well being practitioner and wondered if you could advise me on the correct career path? I am in my final year of Bsc Hon Psychology degree with the Open University and will graduate next year. I live in Swansea and would like to know how to train for this career.Thank you

  42. Alice Wilks says:

    Hi Heather

    I came across your blog post when researching the role of a PWP, as I’m considering this as a career.

    I currently work as an ABA tutor for a client base with a diagnosis of ASD. As well as this, I have previously experience as a mentor for people with learning disabilities, and a helpline advisor offering emotional support to students.

    As much of my experience is LD and ASD, I’m concerned my application to work with mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression, will be overlooked. Do you know of many PWP’s who have a background in ABA?

    Thanks
    Alice

    • Chloe says:

      Hi Alice,

      Just came across your comment and wanted to assure you that it is possible. I was also an ABA tutor and have just qualified as a PWP, however I did have to get clinical experience before I was accepted for an interview. I volunteered for my local MIND service for this.

      Good luck!

    • Heather says:

      Hi Alice

      Thanks for your enquiry into the role, sounds like you have some great experience. I would think about transferable skills when applying and thinking about how you have supported people in your role with depression and anxiety. Any experience in mental health and working with people is really valuable when applying for the role, so any voluntary or paid employment in this field, I would make reference to. As Chloe said below she has come into the PWP profession from this role and we have PWPs from a variety of backgrounds with a range of experience. Hope this is helpful. If you would like anymore advice just let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  43. Anne says:

    Hi
    I would like information on doing the course. What requirements do I need to take the course and do I need to go to university or open university to study to become PWP?

  44. Sommer says:

    Hi Heather, thank you for this post it has been more than helpful.

    I am wanting to apply for a PWP training post next year once graduated, I am currently studying Education with Psychology and Counselling and I work part time as a mental health nursing assistant and volunteer once a month with the psychologists at the hospital. I am not sure if this is enough or my degree is relevant enough to apply for the role.

    Do you have any advice on what I could do in this next year to make me a good candidate for the PWP trainee role?

    Any advice would be much appreciated

    Thank you

    • Heather says:

      Hi Sommer

      Thanks so much for your lovely message, it’s great to hear you are interested in becoming a PWP and it sounds like you have very relevant academic and working experience to apply for the role. My advice would be to think about how your experience relates to the PWP role and the transferable skills you have to bring to the role. Happy to have a chat if you would like.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  45. Teresa says:

    Hello Heather,

    I’m wondering if you can help me… I am a certified clinical psychologist from Portugal, and I was interested in working as a PWP in the UK, for I believe it would be na incredibly rich experience.

    What do you believe should be my first step in doing so? Would it be something actually feasible?

    Thank you!!

    • Heather says:

      Hi Teresa

      Thank you for your lovely message and interest in the role, I am so pleased to hear you are interested in becoming a PWP. The first steps would be to have a look at local IAPT services in your area and set up an alert on NHS jobs for PWP trainee jobs. You could speak to an IAPT service and I would be very happy to speak to you to advise.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  46. Mandy kaur says:

    Hi Heather,

    I have an interview coming up for a trainee PWP role and wanted to ask you for some advice… where would be the best place to find the specific role of a PWP outlined?
    Thank you for your inspirational story of how you became a wellbeing practitioner.

    Mandy.

  47. Aimee says:

    Hi Heather, I stumbled across your article whilst seeking some advice on applying for the PWP trainee course and really enjoyed reading it. I am a recent psychology graduate from the university of Sheffield (first class) and have three years experience volunteering as a mental health recovery coach for Mind. I have also been involved in research discussion groups for Sheffield Health and Social Care NHS Foundation trust as well as volunteering to help conduct a recent discussion group for research to improve access to physical activity for those with mental health problems. Do you think I have enough experience to apply for the PWP trainee program? I was also wondering if you have any advice how best to create my supporting statement?

    Thanks in advice,

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Aimee

      Thank you for your kind comments, I am really pleased you enjoyed the article. Sounds like you have some good and relevant experience. My advice would be to read the person specification and evidence how you meet all of the essential criteria and if you can evidence any of the desirable too. Based on your comments above you have both academic and experience working in mental health. My advice would be to structure your application in a clear way, making reference to the criteria and how you meet it.

      I hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  48. Festa Chinasa says:

    Hi Heather,
    I am interested in working as a PWP. I have already submitted my dissertation in Child and Adolescent mental wellbeing MSC level 7. What chances do I have in getting a job with this qualification because my pathway is not nursing, although I have a degree in health Education, level3 health and social care and have other qualifications. But I am interested in getting a job that is related to my present qualification. Do I still have to get some training to get more skills to get this job (PWP). I am currently working with people with dementia and brain problems and children with disabilities. I need your best advice.
    Kind regards
    Festa.

  49. Nick says:

    Aloha Heather!

    I am thinking about the next steps in my professional career and I stumbled across your article. It was very insightful.

    I wanted to ask you how much time the PWP training takes, and if university postgraduate degrees are the only available option? Also, if I wanted to progress to a Clinical Psyschology PhD later – how many years of PWP experience do I need to apply?

    Thanks for sharing your experience 🙂

    Nick

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Nick

      Thanks for your lovely message. I am pleased you found the article helpful.
      The PWP training would involve being employed by an IAPT service for a year whilst studying at University for one day a week. The usual route is via a University course and being employed within an IAPT service at the same time. There isn’t an exact number of years in which you need to have been qualified as a PWP to apply for the Clinical Psychology PhD, I guess being successful in you application for the PhD depends on the individual, experience and requirements of the course. There are also lots of career development opportunities within the PWP career and opportunities to develop within IAPT services.
      Hope this is helpful. Do let me know if you have anymore questions.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Nick

      Thanks for your kind comments, I am pleased the article was helpful. In regards to your questions, the usual route is via a post graduate degree. Regarding how many years experience you need for clinical psychology, that very much depends on the individuals previous experience and skills. It is helpful for your development to work as a qualified to consolidate skills after the PWP training.

      I hope this is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  50. Samantha says:

    Hello Heather,

    I am a Dramatherapist (MA, HCPC registered) based in York and would love to work in the NHS where I have previously supported Mindfulness groups for people with anxiety/depression. Am I qualified for a PWP role? I am really interested in this pathway.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Samantha

      Lovely to hear from you, it sounds like you have relevant experience having worked with people experiencing symptoms of depression/anxiety and you also have transferable skills. I would recommend applying for a trainee PWP role. If you have any further questions, please let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  51. Agnes says:

    Hi Heather,

    Thank you so much for writing this useful article! I am wondering whether you could give me some feedback on my experience. I graduate with First Class Hons in Forensic Psychology last year. For the past three years I have worked as a healthcare assistant in various psychological settings. Currently, I support the ward psychologist to run the DBT group on the ward which I work on. Additionally, I spend plenty of time with my patients and teaching them CBT skills etc. Will this be ok to apply for the trainee PWP role? Your feedback will be greatly appreciated.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Agnes

      Thanks for your comments and positive feedback, most definitely you sound like you have lots of relevant experience working in mental health, good luck in your application.
      If you need any other advise, just let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  52. Vick says:

    Hi Heather, thanks for the really informative article. It’s clear you’re really passionate about your job and the role of PWPs.

    I have a question for you. I’m about to graduate with a first/ 2:1 (depending on dissertation grade!) in Psychology and have been accepted on a psychology masters programme. My end goal is to do a phd in clinical psychology, but CBT/DBT/CFT type therapies are where I see myself.

    I’ve seen some adverts for post grad pap training roles available in sept and I’m wondering if that is a better route?

    I have 5 years volunteer experience with Samaritans and am now branch director.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Vick

      Thanks for your lovely feedback about the article, I am really pleased you found it informative. It really depends on your preference, sounds like you have some good experience working in mental health and the PWP trainee role would also equip you with more experience and Low Intensity CBT training. If the masters is something that would help to achieve your end goal then I guess it would be worth thinking about the best next step for you, sorry I can’t be of more help with this one, is there a careers advisor at your University that could advise on the different routes, who is more informed to advise? Let me know if you have any other questions about the role, happy to help and best of luck in whatever you decide to do.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  53. Nia says:

    Hi Heather! Really great article, I’m currently working as an Learning Support Assistant with the hope of becoming an PWP as I have a Psychology degree. Could you provide some advice on relevant work experience for the role? Either Paid or Voluntary?

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Nia

      Thanks for your lovely feedback and yes of course happy to provide advice. You have the relevant academic experience. It is good to try and seek experience working with people who have depression and or anxiety and you may well be getting this experience in your current role. There are lots of voluntary roles for example MIND, No Panic, Samaritans where you could gain experience. Also it is important to do a bit of research around the role to understand fully what it involves, especially around the service which you are applying too, for e.g. have a look at there website. You can set a job alert for PWP trainee on NHS jobs or speak to your local service about when they are planning to advertise PWP jobs. I hope this is helpful and do let me know if you would like a chat to discuss anything further. I wish you all the best in applying.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  54. Leena says:

    Hi there,

    Thanks for this article, it’s really helpful.

    I’m wondering if you could help me with advise. I’m a graduate member of BPS with background in Psychology, currently studying counselling abroad on a part time basis (this qualification will not be accredited in the UK).
    I’m full time employed as administrator in Mental Health charity. Also working as bereavement volunteer once a week.
    I’m very interested in building a future clinical career and becoming a psychotherapist.

    Would be the best route for me to apply for PWP now? If yes, do you think I have enough experience/qualification?

    Thank you in advance!

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Leena

      Thank you for contacting, it sounds like you have lots of relevant experience to apply for the trainee PWP role. My advice would be to set a job alert for NHS jobs for PWP trainee and also contact IAPT services in your local area to clarify when the roles will be advertised. I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best in your application, if you would like to chat further just let me know and we can arrange a call.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  55. Amber says:

    Hi Heather,
    thank you for having taken the time to right this post it’s been very helpful. I am currently working as an activity coordinator in a mental health setting and I wondered if that would count as relevant experience. I also have an undergraduate degree is psychology, is there anything I need to do before applying for a trainee role? Or anything that might help?

    Many thanks,
    Amber

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Amber

      My pleasure Amber, I am so glad the post has been helpful, sounds like you are gaining some good relevant experience and are able to study at post-graduate level too, this is all good when apply for a PWP trainee post. Any experience you can get is great. My advice would be to look at the website of your local IAPT service too. Happy to chat about the role if this would be helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  56. Jade says:

    Hello,
    I love helping people and have always wanted a career where I can do just that. I am soon to be a newly qualified nurse and while I absolutely love my role, throughout the course of my training I have found my passion is helping people with their mental well-being rather than just their physical conditions.
    When I read about PWP and I have never been so sure that this is the right career for me. Would my best route be to apply for a trainee PWP postion? Any advice you can give me would be gratefully received.

    • Qualified PWP says:

      As a PWP myself, I would not recommend applying for a Trainee PWP post if you are soon to be a qualified nurse. Depending on the type of Nursing degree you have (RMN ideally), some services might accept you as a PWP already (but you’d have to contact them and it depends on their contracting needs etc).

      If you are soon to be, or already are, a qualified Nurse then you are eligible to apply for Trainee High Intensity CBT Therapist posts, which are also within IAPT services. It is more helpful if you are an RMN, but you can contact your local IAPT service for more information.

      • Jade says:

        Thank you, this is really helpful.
        I’ll be qualified in July as a registered nurse (RN). The experience I have had of mental health has been within my placements and within my home and family life.
        I’m not sure how confident I’d be to jump straight into a PWP role without some training. I’ll definitely look into what’s around locally to me in IAPT.

        Thanks again

        • Heather Stonebank says:

          Hi Jade

          That is great that you already have experience within placements. You would need to complete a PWP trainee course before working as a PWP, usually you can access the course through an PWP trainee position in your local IAPT service.

          Best Wishes

          Heather

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Jade

      Lovely to hear from you, congratulations on your nursing qualification. That’s lovely to hear about you wanting to apply for the PWP trainee role. My advice would be to find out your local IAPT services, research their websites and you could contact to ask when trainee positions will next becoming available. You could also set a an alert on NHS jobs to ensure to are notified when positions become available. Have you experience working in mental health? If you want to drop me an email, I am more than happy to have a chat over the phone.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  57. Lindsay Suttill says:

    Hi i am based in harrogate, i have a background in health psychology but would love to train as a pwp.what are my first steps to take? What course do i need to do? Do i need a placement? Etc. Thank you

    • NHS England says:

      Hi Lindsay. Thank you for your interest in the role of Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. You can find a wide range of information about the profession, including training opportunities and entry requirements, at the Health Careers website.

      Kind regards
      NHS England

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Lindsay

      Thanks so much for contacting – good advice from NHS England. I would also set your job alert on NHS jobs for a PWP trainee role. Sounds like you have some good experience. It is worth checking out your local IAPT service and their website.

      Hope this is helpful. Any other questions just let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

    • Fiona Wallace says:

      Hi Heather

      I too love helping others. I’m a qualified secondary teacher never worked within health service before. I am searching for a new career path and noticed advert for trainee PWP. I was wondering if you think I maybe a suitable candidate? Or any advice would be gratefully received. Many thanks. Fiona

  58. melissa kerr says:

    Hi,

    I have an interview for trainee PWP and it involves role play, presentation and interview.
    Do you have any tip so how to prepare for PWP interview and types questions they may ask or any help regards to the role play?

    Kind Regards
    Melissa
    mhkerr1988@aol.com

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Melissa

      Congratulations on your interview, the best advice I can give is read up about the role and IAPT and do your research about the service you are applying for – look at their website, understand what treatments they offer. Make sure you sell yourself and skills and talk about how your experience has equip you for the role of trainee PWP. The role play is to see how you engage with people and your interpersonal skills. Hope this helps. For info on the role see the links in the comments. Good luck. 🙂

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  59. Subanki says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am an university student currently doing a gap year. I have no experience in mental health yet I want to pursue a career as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. For someone like me what kind of advice can you give me in order to become a pwp.

  60. mandy palmer says:

    Hi I am currently in my last year at university studying drug and alcohol treatment and counselling I am very interested in becoming a wellbeing practitioner and would be very grateful for any information you can give me I have left my email below look forward to your reply.

  61. Fiza says:

    I am a medical doctor graduated from Pakistan (MBBS),n a resident in uk .Guide me regarding practicing PWP in uk .if not possible then any medical practice which I can do in uk ,apart giving lengthy exams .i want to work in a medical profession field so kindly guide .thankyou

  62. Rachel Leggett says:

    Hi do you have a email address that i can contact you on for some advice please.

  63. Heidi says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am a psychiatric nurse, currently working in mental health research. I have five years experience in mental health (as a HCA and qualified nurse) mainly on an acute ward and an inpatient dementia unit.

    In the future, (12-24 months) I would like to move into CBT therapy. Ideally, I would like to do High intensity CBT. Do you have to complete a masters for this? Or is there a route to it through the PWP role? As I’m concerned about the finances involved in doing a masters full time!

    Many thanks,

    Heidi

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Hedi

      Thanks for your message. Sounds like you have lots of experience in mental health. If you would like to do High Intensity CBT within an IAPT service my advice would be to apply for high intensity trainee position in your local IAPT service as you would be working and training at the same time and therefore being paid too. Hope this is helpful, if you would like anymore advice, send me an email and happy to arrange a call.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  64. Rachel Gregory says:

    Hi Heather

    I am a qualified PWP looking to register with a professional body, who is the lead body for PWPs. Many thanks

    Kindest regards

    Rachel

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Rachel

      Thank you for getting in contact. The BPS offer accreditation for IAPT courses and they offer accreditation for PWPs with a Psychology degree. The BABCP did offer accreditation for PWPs but this has currently been withdrawn and under review. There is a BABCP Low Intensity Special Interest Group which I am involved in to support people delivering Low Intensity CBT. Hope this is helpful, happy to have a conversation if this would be helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  65. Victoria Harvey says:

    Hi Heather,
    Thanks for that article, very helpful. I’m really interested in changing my career and getting onto the IAPT PWP course, however unlike others who have left comments here I do not have a degree or any other qualifications in psychology (I do have a BA and MA in other areas). I know to be considered for the course I need to do some volunteering or work in mental health (which Im starting to do) but I cannot see any pre-qualifications I can take to help with my application. I cannot afford to take a degree at this time. I have heaps of life experience and mentor in other areas, and am also a nutritionist, which might help. Is there any advice you can give? It seems an impossible dream to get onto one of these courses/jobs unless I have a degree or years of working in mental health. Thanks in advance for any advice you can give. I’m willing to work anywhere in the country and have already looked at all the websites and job openings in NHS portals and charities.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Victoria

      Lovely to hear from you and it’s so great to hear your enthusiasm for the role. It doesn’t have to be a degree in psychology, it can be in other areas, it really is just to demonstrate you can work at post-graduate level. That’s great regarding volunteering in mental health as experience is really helpful, so I would recommend continuing with this. Is this helpful? Happy to have a conversation to advise further if you drop me an email.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

      • Hayley says:

        Dear Heather
        I am in a similar position to Victoria. I currently work as a Head of year in a Secondary School. I have a BA and Teacher status but do not have an MA. Would it make sense to do this? I really am passionate about this area and would like to move into a new career in this area as my pastoral experience has shown this to be an area of deep interest but how do I go about making this change? Would it be wise to stop teaching now and do further study whilst continuing work experience? I am at a bit of a cross roads really.
        Thanks
        Hayley

        • Heather Stonebank says:

          Hi Hayley

          Thanks so much for your message. That’s great and you sound like you have lots of transferable skills. Shall we arrange a chat over the phone to have discussion? If you contact me by email and we can arrange a call.

          Best Wishes

          Heather

  66. mandy palmer says:

    Hi,
    I am currently working for Nottingham Recovery Network, supporting people with drug ad alcohol issues. I am in my last year at Leicester University doing drug and alcohol counselling and treatment. I am interested in the training for a PWP position can you please advise me where to apply or if there is any opportunities in Nottingham my contact number is 07788197064.

  67. Joe Maddalena says:

    Following sessions PWP and seeing the benefits her work has had on me, in managing my mental health, now without medication. Would my conditions be a bar to me working as a PWP

    Many thanks,
    Joe

  68. Amanda Clements says:

    I am interested in training to become a PWP .I am an RGN with 35 years experience and currently work on a dementia unit .I have volunteered with both Samaritans and CAB .I also have lived experience of a mental health condition.Is it possible to undertake this training and what does it involve ? What qualifications do you need to do this course

  69. Milan says:

    Hi Heather,

    Thank you for sharing information about your role as a PWP.

    My brother suffered from depression and took his own life in 2010. Since then I’ve wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. I stumbled upon the PWP career path today and it has sparked my interest in the role.

    But I don’t have a degree. I have A-Levels in the sciences and I’m 38. Would I need to complete a degree before applying for a role as a PWP or is there another way to train for the role? Also, is there an age limit?

    I’d appreciate any advice you can give.

    Kind regards,
    Milan

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Milan

      Thank you for your message and reading the blog.

      I am sorry to hear about your brother.

      Sounds like you have you have a passion for helping others.

      There is no age limit to becoming a PWP.

      There are different ways to access the PWP training course, a lot of courses do require a degree but there are alternative routes too, I have attached a link with more information about training. I would also contact your local IAPT service and ask who their training provider is and you can contact them directly to ask questions about requirements to access the course.

      https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/psychological-therapies/roles/psychological-wellbeing-practitioner

      I hope this information is helpful and if you require any further information, please let me know. More than happy to advise.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  70. Sara says:

    Hi.

    I am studying a Foundation Degree in Mental health Practise. I am keen to train as a PWP.

    I have personal experience of Depression and Anxiety, so can empathise with people who experience it.

    Would I need a full honours degree to get onto a training program? Or is there a way of getting onto one with a Foundation degree?

    Many thanks,

    Sarah

  71. Alison says:

    Hello. I have a 2:1 degree in Psychology and went into teaching prior to hopefully becoming Ed Psych but life got in the way and 25 years later am interested PWP specialising in CAMHS. Having recently experienced children suffering terribly I want to support them.
    I have worked with children aged 5-15.i am finding that much more of my work is counselling and supporting various mental health issues and would like to continue this support as a profession. What is the best way forward please?

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Alison

      Thanks for getting in contact, sounds like you have lots of useful and relevant experience and a passion for supporting children with their mental health.
      There are PWP positions available in CAMHS. My advice would be to keep looking out for these and maybe enquire in your local CAMHS service when they are next advertising for these posts and apply for a trainee PWP position within CAMHS.If you would like anymore help or advice just let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  72. Nicola Merritt says:

    Hi. I have worked within the NHS for the past 20 years and within Cancer Services as an MDT Coordinator for the past 10 years.
    I have an English Literature/Sociology degree.
    I am keen to train to become a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner, please can you give me some guidance on how best to achieve this/who to apply to/when to apply/whether it will be funded etc.
    with thanks
    Nicola Merritt
    07920052054

    • Anna says:

      Most PWP training courses are advertised on the NHS jobs website. My advice is to think seriously about this area of mental health work. A lot of burnout amongst PWPs and more frequently you will be asked to work with patients you are not trained for due to lack of other services.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Nicola

      Lovely to hear from you, its great you are considering the PWP role. More than happy to provide some guidance. First of all I would add an alert to NHS jobs to make you aware of PWP trainee positions available in your local area. They should be coming out shortly. Happy to have a conversation if you would like to drop me an email and we can arrange a time to speak.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  73. Danny G says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am 26 and currently work with dementia patients in a care home and I am studying my level 3 RQF in Health and Social Care currently. I was at university but only have a Foundation Degree in Crime Psychology as I had to drop out of the Bsc course. I wondered what would be my best route to becoming a PEP without a full degree as I wouldn’t be able to get financed for a full bachelor’s degree.

    Any help would be greatly appreciated.

    Many thanks

  74. Fatima says:

    Hi Heather,

    I will be graduating this summer with a Psychology degree at Goldsmiths (UOL), and am really intrigued by the PWP role. I was wondering what the best way to apply for a trainee post would be, online or through a uni. Any tips/advice would be greatly appreciated.

    Many thanks
    Fatima

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Fatima

      Congratulations on graduating, that’s great to hear you are interested in becoming a PWP. One way to apply is through NHS jobs, you can set an alert to let you know when PWP trainee jobs come up in your local area. Happy to have a chat if you want to drop me an email.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  75. Rach says:

    Hi Heather,

    I am a graduate in psychology and have 2 years experience working within mental health inpatient services.

    I would definitely like to pursue a career within the PWP role.

    Do you have any tips/advice for a successful interview?

    • Heather says:

      Hi Rach

      Thanks for your message, that’s great to hear. Sounds like you have relevant experience for the role, with both academic and experience of working in mental health too.

      Happy to have a discussion regarding any helpful advice, just drop me an email.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  76. Kathryn Crumpholt says:

    Hi,

    I am looking into becoming a PWP, but im stuch as to the best route. Should i get an undergrad degree first, or try and get into one of the PWP trainee positions? Any help would be greatly received.

    • Heather says:

      Hi Kathryn

      Thanks for your message. Great to hear you are looking into becoming a PWP. It’s helpful to have a undergraduate degree or equivalent as the main PWP training courses are at post graduate level. There are some that offer alternative route but the main route is to apply for a PWP trainee position in an IAPT service and complete the postgraduate course in the training year. Hope this is helpful info, please do get in touch if you have any other questions. Wishing you all the best for the future.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  77. Emily says:

    Dear Heather

    I came across your blog when doing some research on the clinical advisor role, and it is really nice to see how dedicated and passionate you are about being a PWP!

    I am currently a senior PWP role in a small but well established service and am really keen to start up some clinical audit/research and find some innovative ways of monitoring and improving our clinical work. I would be really grateful if you could point me in the direction on any information on the clinical advisor role/clinical leadership as a pwp, research/clinical audit, cpd/training opportunities and anything else that you think may be helpful.

    Thanks so much in advance.

    Best wishes
    Emily

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Emily

      Thank you for your message, lovely to hear from you and about the fantastic work you are planning.

      Yes more than happy to point you in the right direction, advise and discuss ideas – lets arrange a chat over the phone and we can have a discussion. If you drop me an email we can arrange a call.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  78. Ameera Kapadia says:

    hi my name is Ameera and i am currently in my final year at univeristy. i wish to do a trainee course as a pwp but some where locally as i live in nuneaton and London is too far out as i cannot afford to move out. is there any where that do this programme locally and if not is there a way i can some how do this course. thank you

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Ameera

      Thank you for your message. I hope you are enjoying your final year at University. My advice would be ask IAPT services in your local area where their training provider is located. Usually the training is accessed by being successful in gaining a PWP trainee post within an IAPT service. I do hope this information is helpful.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  79. Deborah says:

    Hi I am thinking of applying for a pg course for psychological wellbeing practitioner in London, I hold a masters in social work, is there an upper age limit as I’m 58

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Deborah

      Lovely to hear from you – that’s great you are thinking of applying for the role. Sounds like you have a lot of relevant experience. There is no upper age limit. We encourage people of all ages to apply for the role. I would definitely encourage you to apply, your application would be very welcome.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  80. AS says:

    Hi Heather,
    Its nice to read about your clear account of PWP role. I am a PWP myself and would like to find out how can I move into developing special interest areas as you mentioned. Is there specific training available that I can access ?

    many thanks

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello

      Thank you for reading the blog and the lovely feedback. Yes, there are opportunities to receive training within specialist areas depending where you are and what specialist areas you are interested in. I would be more than happy to discuss over the phone and advise. If you drop me an email and we can arrange a time to have a discussion. Look forward to hearing from you.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  81. Vicky Carroll says:

    Hi Heather, what a fantastic blog explaining your role/career path and great for a parent of a soon to be trainee PWP.
    After completing a Bsc & MSc in Clinical Psychology, as parents we thought she would automatically apply for assistant psych roles, however can now see where her skills and passions lie. Many thanks

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Vicky

      Thank you so much for your lovely feedback, it is very much appreciated. I am really pleased the blog has been helpful in explaining the PWP role/career path. That’s great news, I do hope your daughter enjoys her new role as PWP trainee. If I can be of anymore help at all, please do drop me an email.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  82. Vediz Yilkan says:

    Hi,

    I am hoping to become a CBT therapist and a CBT therapist I work with said that I could possibly go through IAPT. If this is the case please could I have a little more information.

    Kind Regards

    Vediz Yilkan

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Vediz

      Thank you for your message, yes that is correct. There are trainee CBT opportunities within IAPT. These posts will be advertised through your local IAPT service when they become available. Keep a look out and you can also set an alert on NHS jobs to notify you when these positions are advertised.

      Hope this is helpful. Any questions please let me know.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  83. Hannah Conroy says:

    Hi there

    I am very interested in this job role, I am currently doing a psychology degree and I am volunteering with people with mental health problems. I was wondering what the career progression was like in this area (not just progressing to become a clinical psychologist) and what training is needed after a degree?

    Thanks

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Hannah

      Thank you for your message – that’s great to hear you are interested in the PWP role.

      There is a lot of career progression within the PWP role – from specialist PWP roles, Senior PWPs to Lead PWPs, researchers to clinical educators. There is definitely a career path developing, which is a great development for the role. Also there are roles within IAPT such as team managers or high intensity CBT positions which PWPs go on to. Lots of great opportunities! PWPs can train as supervisors once qualified and have gained some experience, so it is a great role to gain lots of additional skills, transferable skills and CPD.
      It sounds like you on the right lines with your degree and experience, my advice would be to complete your degree and continue to gain experience in mental health and then you can look into applying for the role. Happy to discuss if you would like any further advice.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  84. Jordon Murdoch says:

    Hi,

    How can I start training to become PWP?

    I look forward to hearing from you.

    Kind regards,

    Jordon

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hi Jordan

      Thank you for your message.

      To start training to become a PWP, you can apply for a trainee PWP post in an IAPT service. Keep checking for ‘PWP trainee’ jobs in your area. You could have a look at a job description and personal specification in the meantime to look at the criteria. Hope this is helpful.

      Many thanks

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  85. Jennie Harper says:

    Wow what an inspiration you are and from my neck of the woods too. I recently qualified with an upper 2:1 in psychology, studying while working full time and am now working on a male psychiatric intensive care unit. I have applied 3 times for a trainee PWP position before I started on the unit but didn’t even get an interview. Is there anything more you can advise or is it just a case of persevering. Thanks Jennie.

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Jennie, thanks so much for your lovely feedback about the PWP blog. Sounds like you have relevant qualifications and some experience too, I would definitely keep trying. Making sure you are clearly matching all the essential criteria when completing your application. More than happy to have a chat over the phone and we can speak in more detail, if you would like to speak drop me an email and we can arrange a time to speak. Look forward to hearing from you. Many thanks, Best Wishes, Heather

  86. Abbey says:

    Hi Heather, you sound like you really enjoy your job which must mean you’re very good at it! How do you encourage people to actively participate in-spite of their mental health symptoms and help them recover?

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Thank you Abbey – I do really enjoy my job and find it very rewarding.
      I think it’s important first all to acknowledge the difficulties people experience, help them to understand, normalise, empathise as well as instilling hope that engaging in treatment can be beneficial. We help people make changes gradually to build their confidence and discuss any barriers to help people overcome any challenges they may encounter along the way. We also help the person to identify and set individual goals, which really helps and motivates a person to make changes and participate in treatment when they have something specific in mind they are working towards. Hope this information helps, if you have any other questions please let me know, more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the role. Many thanks, Best Wishes Heather

  87. Tee says:

    Hi, thanks for writing that inspiring blog post. I hold a first class degree in economics and have recently gone back to work after having 3 children, for a mental health charity as a community development officer. It was only for 8 months or so but I never felt so enthused going to work. I have an A level I psychology. Please advise if it’s possible for me to train as a PWP and the route I could take?

    • Heather Stonebank says:

      Hello Tee

      Thank you for your message and kind feedback. Sounds like you have relevant skills and experience and it’s lovely to hear you enjoy your role in the mental health charity. To become a PWP, the usual route would be to apply for a PWP trainee post in an IAPT service, where you will work whilst studying one day a week for a Post-Graduate Certificate in Low Intervention Psychological Interventions, which takes one year to complete. If you would like anymore information, happy to discuss further.

      Best Wishes

      Heather

  88. Claire macfarlane says:

    Hello. I have been a school health nurse for the last 10 years and have in this time developed my 1:1 emotional support therapeutic work using a strength based approach incorporating solution focus therapy and motivational interviewing. My background is Paediatric nursing , mainly Adolescent based . I also recently completed a Public Health post grad diploma, which encorporated a Systemic module, i am keen to focus on wellbeing. Would you be able to advise me of a route I could take to become a PWP?
    Best wishes

    • Anonymous says:

      Hi Claire, thank you for your message. It sounds like you have some excellent experience. Great to hear you are exploring the PWP career path. To become a PWP the usual route would be to apply for a PWP trainee post within an IAPT service. You would then complete a Post graduate Certificate in Low Intensity Psychological Interventions alongside working in an IAPT service. Hope this is helpful, if you need anymore information please do let me know happy to have a discussion.
      Best Wishes
      Heather

  89. Charles Green says:

    I came across your blog by accident and enjoyed reading it. I am working on temporary contracts at the moment in Wakefield and enjoying the fast pace.How are you? I hope you and all the IAPT teams in Sheffield are well.
    Best wishes
    Charlie

    • Anonymous says:

      Thanks Charlie, great to hear from you. I am very good thanks. Glad all is good and you are enjoying the role.
      Best Wishes
      Heather

  90. Lesley says:

    Hi Heather

    I was good to read you passionate account of your role as a PWP and it evolution. I wonder if it would be possible for me to talk to you about the career structure for PWP in your service and if you are aware of any good practice examples of career structure nationally for the PWP workforce.

    Thank you

    • Anonymous says:

      Hi Lesley

      Thank you for your lovely feedback. I would be more than happy to discuss PWP career structures and good practice examples. It would be great to speak. If you could me directly on my email: heather.stonebank@shsc.nhs.uk
      we can arrange a time to speak.

      Many thanks

      Heather