The Maribyrnong Sports Academy seeks a Psychologist with experience and/or an understanding of the issues and pressures on teenagers and specifically youth student-athletes. The primary role is to provide one-on-one support to student-athletes in Years 7 - 10. It is envisaged that the work will have a greater focus on wellbeing related issues, however the link between sport performance and mental health is recognised.
Attendance for this position is 2.5 days per week, days and times are negotiable
RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide direct counselling support and other early intervention services for individual student-athletes with a range of mental health issues, applying sound theoretical knowledge and practical expertise (it is to be noted that the entry to such support may be via sport performance related issues).
Plan and implement evidence-based intervention strategies for students with complex needs including collaborating with families, other professionals and agencies when appropriate, and manage the associated risks.
Where possible this role will also support the MSA Performance and Environment Psychologist with initiatives for sporting groups, and to improve the MSA performance environment.
To be the Performance Services representative on two Inter-disciplinary Teams (Teams are being established for each sport in the MSA Program).
Keep appropriate records, and maintain ethical standards as required of a psychologist
Maintain professional competence and continued professional learning, including attending professional development activities throughout the year.
Work collaboratively with the school to contribute to policies and operational practices that will guide the work of others, including other school wellbeing staff and teachers.
Meet relevant policies and legislative requirements in relation to student health information privacy.
That twice per term the Performance Services staff provide a report summarising the work completed and any consistent themes or challenges emerging (this will allow common themes to be identified and addressed as required).
Contribute as part of the MSA Wellbeing Team (depending on the qualifications and experience of the MSA appointment Psychologists, one of them may be required to lead the Wellbeing Team, to be negotiated with the successful applicants).
SELECTION CRITERIA
Ability to develop and deliver a Psychology consultation service within an emerging athlete pathway or education setting.
Sound interpersonal and professional skills related to dealing with student-athletes from widely diverse age groups and sports.
The ability to meet competing demands through effective prioritization in a results-oriented environment is also desired.
An ability to work as part of the broader MSA team to ensure a holistic and complementary experience for all student-athletes.
Exemplary values pertaining to personal qualities of objectivity, sensitivity, and integrity.
Applicants must have:
An appropriate postgraduate degree in Psychology.
Demonstrated direct counselling experience.
Experience working with teenagers.
Experience and/or an understanding of athletes and sports performance environments.
A current Working With Children Check.
Current Registration as a Psychologist with AHPRA.
Desirable
Endorsement/Accreditation as a Sport Psychologist.
Experience working with emerging and/or elite athletes across a number of individual and team sports.
Conditions of Employment
All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements.
Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check.
A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.
