Job Title

Job DescriptionClinical / Counselling / Forensic PsychologistDepartment - Specialist RolesLocation(s) - LondonSalary - 64,302nFlexible working: we support full-time, part-time, compressed hours and flexi-time,subject to business need. Due to the nature of this role, remote or hybrid working will notbe possible and working from home will only be available for professional developmentdays.About us MI5 keeps the country safe from serious threats like terrorism and attempts by states toharm the UK, its people and way of life. We carry out investigations by obtaining,analysing, and assessing intelligence, and then work with a range of partners includingMI6 and GCHQ to disrupt these threats. Through our protective security arm, we provideadvice and guidance to government, businesses and other organisations about how tokeep themselves safe. A role in MI5 means you''ll do unique and challenging work in asupportive and encouraging environment, making a real difference to UK nationalsecurity.The role As a Psychologist at MI5, youll play a critical role in supporting individuals and teams whowork at the heart of national security. This is a unique opportunity to apply your expertisein a context unlike any other, where your insights will influence investigations, operationsand strategic planning. Youll bring psychological thinking to some of our most complexchallenges, translating specialist knowledge into clear, actionable advice that helps teamsmake informed decisions.Upon joining a dynamic and supportive team, youll work across diverse mission areas,providing guidance on risk, resilience and interventions, supporting individuals and teamsdelivering impact across our organisation. From consulting on high-priority investigationsto designing and delivering training, your work will be varied and intellectually stimulating.Whilst much of your role will be desk-based, youll collaborate closely with colleaguesacross disciplines, attend meetings, and contribute to projects that require creativity andadaptability.Whether youre conducting formulation-driven assessments, writing detailed reports, orshaping long-term strategies, youll be using your skills in innovative ways, influencingnoutcomes that matter. Youll also have opportunities to engage with the widerbehavioural science community, contribute to research projects, and help embedpsychologically-informed thinking across the organisation.About youYoull need a Masters or Doctorate in Clinical, Counselling or Forensic Psychology (orequivalent with BPS chartership) and to be registered with the Health Care andProfessions Council (HCPC). At least two years post-qualification experience in mentalhealth and/or secure settings is essential.With a blend of professional expertise, adaptability and curiosity, youll be confidentapplying your knowledge in complex, high-impact environments. Your experience inmental health or secure settings will give you the insight to navigate sensitive issues andprovide clear, evidence-based advice.Youll thrive in ambiguity and enjoy the challenge of working in a fast-paced, evolvingcontext. Whether youre shaping risk assessments, advising on interventions, orcontributing to long-term strategies, youll bring clarity, credibility, and a collaborativemindset to everything you do. Strong consultancy skills and the ability to manageuncertainty are essential, as is the confidence to work independently while engagingeffectively with colleagues across disciplines.Youll be able to translate complex psychological concepts into clear, actionable insightsfor non-specialist audiences. Ethical practice and inclusion will underpin everything youdo, and youll be passionate about the impact practitioner psychology can have in shapingoutcomes that matter.Training and developmentFrom day one, youll be supported with a structured induction that introduces you to yourteam, your role, and the wider organisation. Youll take part in a familiarisation periodwith investigations and operations, helping you understand how psychological expertiseshapes our mission and builds impact.Youll have access to a wide range of learning opportunities, from specialist training inpsychological risk assessment and consultancy to CPD activities that keep your skillscurrent and broaden your expertise. Whether youre refining your approach toformulation-driven assessments or exploring new ways to embed psychologically-informed thinking, youll be encouraged to shape your own development journey.Well also support you in attending UK and international conferences and provide regularpeer supervision and ethical practice reflection to maintain professional standards. Youllnbe part of a culture that values continuous learning, with opportunities to shadowcolleagues, collaborate on cases, and engage with the wider behavioural sciencecommunity.In short, youll never be on your own: youll have the guidance, resources, andencouragement you need to thrive in a role thats as rewarding as it is impactful.Rewards and benefitsYoull receive a starting salary of 64,302, plus other benefits including: 25 Days Annual Leave automatically rising to 30 days after 5 years'' service, and anadditional 10.5 days public and privilege holidays opportunities to be recognised through our employee performance scheme a dedicated development budget an interest-free season ticket loan an excellent pension scheme a cycle to work scheme facilities such as a gym, restaurant and on-site coffee bars (at some locations) paid parental and adoption leave.