7 May 2021

Clinical Associate in Psychology (CAP) is a new applied psychological profession developed to increase access to psychological interventions, particularly for groups and communities that have often not received psychological intervention. 

The first cohort of Apprentice Clinical Associates in Psychology began with the Trust in January 2021. Each participant trained as an apprentice for 18 months whilst studying for a master’s degree.

The Apprentice CAPs have already begun working with service users, applying their knowledge to deliver transdiagnostic, short-term, goal-oriented interventions to help improve quality of life. Upon completion of their apprenticeships, they will work to support adults with complex health needs using principles from Structured Clinical Management (SCM). 

Within Jameson Division, all Apprentice CAPs are working with adult mental health community teams:

  • Zainab Ogunbadejo and Katie Williams are working in Kensington & Chelsea
  • Samiya Daud and Kiran Malhan are working in Harrow.

Katie Williams says “I have really enjoyed the wide range of topics covered by the course so far and am looking forward to putting this learning into practice within my service.”

In their first four months in the role, they have each been involved with direct client work and diverse service development projects. This includes setting up new pathways for referral into their services and facilitating discharge from inpatient wards to community-based mental health care.

Reflecting on balancing clinical and academic work, Samiya Daud says “working in my service alongside my studies has given me the opportunity to shadow different members of staff within our team. This has highlighted to me the importance of an integrated team with each member providing holistic, therapeutic care for clients and supporting them with their difficulties.”

Our current CAPs have been in post for 4 months and are excited to see what the rest of their training looks like as the role progresses. We wish them luck on their journey!