JOB PURPOSE:
The Principal Psychologist Manager is responsible for the overall governance, leadership, and management of the psychology service within Adult Clinical Services. The post-holder will ensure high-quality, evidence-based, person-centered psychological support for adults with disabilities, while leading on clinical governance, staff management, supervision, training, service development, and research. This role includes carrying a defined caseload, overseeing complex interventions, and ensuring equitable access to psychology services across the organization.
Clinical Responsibilities
* Carry a defined caseload appropriate to the role, with size and complexity agreed with the Director of Adult Clinical Services, taking into account the other managerial responsibilities the principal is required to undertake.
* Provide specialist input in the development and oversight of Enhanced Multi-Element Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Plans for adults with complex needs.
* Ensure equitable access to psychological specialisms across Adult Services (e.g., ASD, MHID, Dementia).
* Promote evidence-based practice and ensure that all interventions are aligned with best-practice standards.
* Collaborate with other clinical departments to deliver integrated and person-centered care.
Governance & Service Leadership
* Lead the development, implementation, and monitoring of clinical governance structures to ensure safe, effective, and accountable psychological service delivery.
* Ensure compliance with statutory, organisational, and professional regulations and codes of ethics.
* Participate in strategic planning and contribute to the development of Adult Clinical Services' work and strategic plans.
* Develop and oversee referral and discharge systems to ensure equitable allocation of resources and transparent prioritisation of need.
* Chair (as determined by DoACS) and participate in steering groups including ASD, PBS, Dementia, and MHID, ensuring integration of psychological expertise into multidisciplinary service planning.
* Key member of the Admissions/Discharge and Adult Day Waitlist Committees
Staff & Team Management
* Line manage relevant psychology staff across multiple service locations (e.g., Coolock, Ballymun, Goatstown, MHID team).
* Implement effective performance management systems, including appraisal, supervision, and professional development planning.
* Lead on workforce planning, recruitment, induction, and retention strategies.
* Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive team culture that promotes staff wellbeing and resilience.
* Will ensure that all human resource issues are dealt with in a manner compatible with both current employment legislation and human resources procedures of the client.
The post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post, which may be assigned to him/her from time to time, and to contribute to the development of the post while in office. This job description will be subject to review in the light of changing circumstances. It is not intended to be exhaustive but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which individuals work