Psychologist/AOD Mental Health Clinician - Parramatta

The Salvation Army is a Christian movement and one of Australia's largest and most-loved charities. We believe in doing good that transforms lives and futures for the better. It is this belief which drives us to find new ways and places where we can make a difference. From times of personal crisis to moments of national grief, we are always here — providing support, safety, community, and opportunity.

Make a Difference Where It Matters Most

The Salvation Army’s HeadFyrst program partners with six headspace sites across South‑Western and Western Sydney to deliver integrated, youth‑focused mental health and AOD support. Through strong collaboration with medical and allied health services, HeadFyrst provides personalised, coordinated care for young people aged 12–25 years.

This is your opportunity to join a mission‑driven organisation where your clinical expertise can meaningfully change young lives.

About the Role

As a HeadFyrst Clinician, you will deliver evidence‑based psychological interventions within a harm‑minimisation and client‑centred framework, supporting young people with co‑occurring mental health and substance use concerns. You’ll be part of a safe, inclusive and youth‑friendly service that values trust, empowerment and long‑term recovery.

This is a permanent part‑time role (9am–5pm) based in Parramatta, NSW, reporting to the Headfyrst Coordinator. Salary is aligned with the

Health Professionals and Support Services Award Level 3.

How You Will Make an Impact

• Deliver 1-2-1 evidence-based interventions to young people utilising a range of modalities in the treatment of AOD and mental health presentations (e.g. AOD-based harm minimisation interventions, CBT, Psychoeducation, Solution-Focused Therapy etc.)
• Provide assessments to young people accessing the Headfyrst service, including semi-structured psychosocial interviews and psychometric assessments (e.g. K10, DASS21, Severity of Dependence Scale etc.)
• Provide case formulation and treatment planning tailored to the individual goals of the young person
• Maintain accurate and professional record-keeping practices and documentation processes, including session records, reports, and data collection activities, utilising established mechanisms and procedures
• Build rapport and engage effectively with individuals, families, and caregivers of young people accessing the Headfyrst program
• Provide appropriate referral and support pathways for young people and their families who require supplementary or alternative support
• Work within a multidisciplinary environment and liaise with internal and external service providers
• Develop, monitor, and review individual treatment plans
• Attend and participate in clinical reviews, staff meetings, supervision, and other professional development activities
• Network and promote the Headfyrst program to other services within the mental health and AOD sector
• Assess risk and effectively utilise risk management interventions, reporting and procedures.
• Maintain continued professional development (CPD) activities.
• Attend regular clinical supervision.
• Adhere to the PsychBA Code of Conduct.
• Adhere to the Salvation Army Code of Conduct.
• Undertake ad hoc duties as requested by the Program Manager and Regional Manager.
• Acquire and maintain knowledge of clinical referral and support options for clients.
• Work collaboratively and professionally with other programs and services.
• Work effectively within a team that fosters and empowers continuous improvement.

What You Will Bring

• Fully registered/provisionally registered Psychologist or registered Allied Health Professional · Clinical experience in providing evidence-based treatment in therapeutic contexts.
• Minimum of Bachelors’ degree with honours and acceptance into a recognised psychologist registration pathway.
• WHS – knowledge of work health safety obligations
• Experience in the delivery of trauma-informed mental health services inclusive of specialist skills in assessing, managing, and treating clients in a cross-cultural setting
• AHPRA Registered Psychologist/provisional psychologist with experience
• Demonstrated experience working clinically with youth aged 16 – 25 years · Demonstrated counselling skills and experience
• Demonstrated knowledge, experience, and ability to work with young people affected by issues such as drug & alcohol use, gambling, trauma, domestic violence, homelessness, anger, stress, unsafe coping behaviour, mental health presentations, and suicide risk
• Comprehensive knowledge of Trauma Informed Care and Practice · Experience working with people from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background.
• Clinical experience working with youth and within AOD treatment contexts

What we offer

The Salvos offer eligible employee's a well-balanced package of meaningful benefits including:

• Salary packaging up to $15,900 tax free + $2,650 meal entertainment benefit.
• Generous Paid Parental leave for primary (12 weeks) & secondary carers, Purchased Leave Scheme (up to 8 weeks) and 5 days paid leave per year to experience working in other TSA programs or activities.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Access to EAP and health & wellness initiatives incl Fitness Passport
• Ongoing training and development opportunities that enhance on the job skills and proficiency.
• Rewarding and fulfilling purpose driven careers that have positive and sustainable / social impacts.

Why Join Salvos?

At The Salvation Army, you’ll be backed by a supportive, purpose‑driven team and an organisation deeply committed to professional excellence and continuous improvement. Most importantly, you’ll be part of something bigger — helping young people reclaim their futures with hope and confidence.

Apply today and be part of a team that transforms lives.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer who provides an inclusive work environment and embraces the diverse talent of its people. We value people of all cultures, languages, capacities, sexual orientations, gender identities and/or expressions. W e are committed to achieving a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Salvation Army is a child safe organisation and is committed to protecting children and young people from harm. All child facing roles will require the successful completion of a Working with Children Check. Applicants for all roles require a mandatory Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check.

We value Integrity, Compassion, Respect, Diversity, and Collaboration