Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists (CAPTs) work with children, adolescents and their families, using psychoanalytic psychotherapy to treat a wide range of psychological problems. They adapt methods (talking, play, drawing or creative activities) to each young person’s developmental level. CAPTs may work with trauma, attachment issues, developmental trauma, emotional disorders and long-standing difficulties, helping young people to understand underlying conflicts and build emotional resilience.
What the Role Involves
CAPTs typically work within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) teams, in collaboration with psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses and social workers. Typically, you would:
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Assessment and Therapy: Conduct in-depth assessments and provide open-ended, long-term psychotherapy. This can involve individual sessions with the child or adolescent, family sessions, or play-based therapy for younger children. Techniques may include symbolic play, drawing, storytelling or direct conversation, depending on the child’s needs.
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Family and System Work: In addition to one-to-one work, CAPTs often meet with parents/carers and family members to explore dynamics affecting the child. They may provide guidance to schools or social services about a child’s emotional needs.
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Consultation: CAPTs contribute psychoanalytic perspectives to multidisciplinary team discussions, helping colleagues understand complex cases. They may also offer supervision or reflective practice groups for staff.
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Settings: Clinical placements and jobs are usually in community CAMHS clinics, but CAPTs can also work in inpatient units, specialist schools, perinatal/parent-infant services, or forensic settings for young people.
Career Progression Opportunities
As their careers develop, CAPTs can specialise in particular settings or populations. Many also take on supervisory or leadership roles. Senior CAPTs may become service leads, training co-ordinators, or consultants in their specialty. Some pursue further accreditation in related therapies or psychotherapy models. Training as a CAPT already prepares one for teaching and research, and experienced practitioners often contribute to professional training programs.
Why Work at GMMH
GMMH provides a nurturing environment for psychotherapists. You’ll join child mental health teams across Greater Manchester, with access to ongoing clinical supervision and peer support. The Trust values specialist roles and supports staff in developing their expertise. GMMH also offers research opportunities, so CAPTs can engage in academic projects alongside clinical work. With vibrant communities and nature on our doorstep, working at GMMH means a fulfilling career and a balanced lifestyle.
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