Therapist / Equine and Animal Assisted Interventions

AWD online; Guildford; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 40,000

Job description

Therapist who is passionate about supporting children and young people with complex emotional and behavioural needs is required for an alternative therapeutic provider.

This pioneering organisation provides therapeutic education, alternative provision, and animal-assisted interventions (AAI) for children, young people, and adults with a wide range of emotional, social, and mental health needs. The organisation’s work is rooted in the transformative power of animals - especially equines - in fostering well-being, emotional regulation, and personal development. This is a very ‘hands on’ role, working outside in the elements and great fun for the right person, and not so fun for someone who likes to be based in an office every day. So, if you prefer the warmth of being indoors then this role wouldn’t be a great fit.

However, if you are passionate about working with young people and the way in which animals can help us make sense of the world, and help us learn, then this could be the perfect opportunity for you!

While direct experience with animals or horses is not essential, it would be highly advantageous. Training can be provided for therapists looking to integrate animal-assisted approaches into their practice.

SALARY: £28,146 - £39,216 per annum (depending on experience)

LOCATION: There are positions at two sites, West Horsley (Surrey) and Shamley Green (Guildford Surrey)

JOB TYPE: Full-Time and Part-Time Positions Available (minimum of 3 days per week 9am to 5pm)

FLEXIBLE WORKING SCHEDULES

We are looking for therapists to join the team across 7 days a week, working 3-5 set days, weekdays and/or weekends.

JOB OVERVIEW

We have a fantastic new job opportunity for a Therapist who is passionate about supporting children and young people with complex emotional and behavioural needs.

Working as a Therapist you will deliver both individual and group therapy, with the opportunity to integrate equine and animal-assisted interventions where clinically indicated (training on animal-assisted approaches provided). You will conduct comprehensive clinical assessments and develop goal-oriented therapeutic plans tailored to the specific needs of each client, providing impactful interventions to support emotional regulation, self-confidence, and overall well-being.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and compassionate Therapist who understands the complexities of working with children and young people with additional needs. While direct experience with animals or horses is not essential, it would be highly advantageous. Training can be provided for therapists looking to integrate animal-assisted approaches into their practice.

Why Join?

1. Innovative therapeutic approach: Work within a team that integrates animals, nature, and experiential learning into therapy.
2. Supportive and collaborative environment: Be part of a passionate, multi-disciplinary team.
3. Professional development opportunities: Training provided in animal-assisted interventions and therapeutic approaches.
4. Flexible working options: Choose a schedule that fits around your availability.
5. Impactful work: Make a real difference in the lives of children, young people, and families.

DUTIES

1. Provide individual and group therapy sessions, incorporating equine and animal-assisted interventions where appropriate.
2. Conduct clinical assessments and develop goal-focused therapeutic plans tailored to each client’s needs.
3. Work with children, young people, and, at weekends, adults, families, and younger children, delivering impactful interventions that support emotional regulation, self-confidence, and well-being.
4. Facilitate therapeutic group sessions and psycho-education workshops, integrating animals into interventions where appropriate.
5. Maintain clinical oversight, ensuring best practices, safeguarding, and compliance with ethical guidelines.
6. Liaise with parents, carers, schools, social workers, and other professionals to provide holistic support for clients.
7. Contribute to service evaluation and outcome reporting, ensuring measurable impact and continuous improvement.

CANDIDATE REQUIREMENTS

We welcome applications from therapists with experience in counselling, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, play therapy, art therapy, or a related field.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

1. Professional registration with a recognised UK governing body (BACP, UKCP, HCPC, etc.).
2. A degree in a relevant field (e.g. Art or Play Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, Psychology).
3. Previous post-qualification experience, working directly with clients in a therapeutic setting.
4. Experience working with mental health challenges in children and young people.
5. Qualified and experienced in using a range of clinical assessment tools.
6. Supervision training and experience (essential for those in a senior role).

Desirable Qualifications & Experience

1. Training in Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) or Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) (EAGALA, PATH International, IAHAIO, or equivalent).
2. Experience delivering psychoeducation workshops or group therapy incorporating animals.
3. Experience in trauma-informed practice and neurodivergent-friendly approaches (e.g., working with ASD, ADHD, attachment difficulties).
4. Skills in multi-disciplinary collaboration, particularly in an alternative education or therapeutic setting.

The organisation is committed to Safeguarding Children and Young People. All roles are subject to Safeguarding scrutiny, including references and DBS Checks, prior to commencing employment.

APPLY TODAY…

By submitting your job application to us you are hereby giving us your express consent to submit your details to our Client for this purpose.

JOB REF: AWDO-P13213