We are now taking applications for trainee placements.
Apply nowTrainee Therapist Placements in East & North London
Join our community of 100+ practitioners across Highbury Fields and Haggerston.
Start Your Professional Journey
Are you a psychotherapy or counselling student ready to gain valuable clinical experience? Our trainee placement program offers you the opportunity to work with real clients while receiving comprehensive support from experienced practitioners in our thriving therapeutic community.
Located across East London (Haggerston E8) and North London (Highbury Fields N5), we provide a supportive environment where you can develop your skills, build confidence, and make the transition from student to professional therapist.
What We Offer Our Trainees
Professional Development Support
- Support for both online and face-to-face therapeutic work
- Monthly peer supervision with fellow trainees
- Guidance transitioning from placement to private practice
- Access to our Low-Cost Mentoring Program
- Integration into our community of trainees and fully qualified therapists
Real-World Experience
We provide a low-cost counselling service for clients from diverse backgrounds presenting with a wide range of therapeutic needs. This gives you exposure to varied clinical presentations and helps develop your therapeutic flexibility.
Training Partnership
We work with leading training organisations including Metanoia, Minster Centre, University of East London, Institute for Art in Therapy and Education, Regents University, and the Roehampton School of Art Therapy.
Placement Requirements
Experience Level
3rd year students with ideally 50+ hours of clinical practice from previous placements.
Time Commitment
Minimum 3 low-cost clients per week. 18-month minimum commitment. Monthly supervision meetings plus 3 months assessment training.
Professional Requirements
BACP, UKCP or similar registration. Professional indemnity insurance. Enhanced DBS check. External supervision arrangements in place.
Availability Requirements
Assessment training: 3 x 1-hour calls Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm (initial 3 months). Weekend in-person availability required on Saturdays and Sundays.
Application Process
Four steps from application to placement
Initial Application
Complete our application form with your details and experience.
CV Submission & Interview
Successful candidates will be contacted by our Low-Cost Coordinator to discuss next steps, confirm availability and placement details, and answer any questions.
Administrative Requirements
One-off £30 administrative fee required before interview confirmation. This fee can be applied towards your key deposit if accepted, and the deposit is fully refunded at placement completion.
Documentation
If accepted, provide BACP/UKCP membership details, insurance certificate, DBS check certificate, and any other required documentation within 1 week.
Start Your Professional Journey
Getting Started
Ready to take the next step in your therapeutic career? Our placement program offers the perfect bridge between academic training and professional practice.
Important
Please only apply if you're ready to commit to the full placement requirements.
If you need more information or aren't sure about your readiness, contact us at trainee-therapist-enquiry@hqtherapy.com
Contact Information
Email: trainee-therapist-enquiry@hqtherapy.com
For questions about requirements, availability, or the application process, don't hesitate to reach out before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about getting started? Get answers to the most common questions about trainee placements at HQ.
Can HQ Therapy trainees continue after qualifying?
Yes, many trainees join our therapist community after qualifying. We offer support transitioning from trainee to qualified practitioner, including room rental and continued client referrals.
What paperwork do HQ Therapy trainees need?
Trainees need professional insurance, DBS check, course enrollment verification, and placement agreement. We help coordinate required documentation with your training institution.
Do HQ Therapy trainees work with low-cost clients?
Yes, many trainees provide therapy through our low-cost programme. This provides valuable experience while making therapy accessible to more people.
Where do HQ Therapy trainees work?
Trainees work across our locations in Highbury Fields, Haggerston, and online.
How many clients do HQ Therapy trainees see?
Trainee client loads vary based on course requirements and placement stage. Most trainees see 3-8 clients per week. We match client loads to your learning needs and capacity.
Do HQ Therapy trainees get supervision?
Yes, all trainees receive clinical supervision from qualified supervisors. Supervision frequency matches your course requirements. Group supervision and peer support also available through our trainee community.
What are the requirements for HQ Therapy trainee placements?
Trainees must be enrolled in accredited counselling or psychotherapy courses, have professional insurance, and require clinical supervision. Previous therapy experience helpful but not essential.
How do I apply for trainee placements at HQ Therapy?
Submit an application through our website including CV, training course details, and placement requirements. We review applications based on course stage, supervision needs, and available placement slots.