Psychologist - Tai Aroha Special Treatment Unit at Ara Poutama Aotearoa (Department of Corrections), Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

This is a unique and rare opportunity for a Psychologist to work in a world class community-based Special Treatment Unit (STU) that focuses on violence prevention.  The unit provides intensive treatment for convicted males on Home Detention sentences who are motivated to a life free of violence and reintegrate in a positive way with their community and families.

The position is based at the Tai Aroha STU in central Hamilton and has a strong Tikanga Maori focus.  The unit offers therapy and reintegration support for the residents.  For psychologists, this is a fantastic opportunity to develop your cognitive-behavioural group treatment skills, use your clinical expertise, provide professional leadership, and make a positive impact.

This professional role calls for someone who:

• Has a desire to empower people to make positive changes in their lives.
• Has experience in clinical assessment, treatment and psychometric testing.
• Has a high level of cultural responsiveness.
• Has experience in group facilitation (preferred but not essential).

New Zealand trained applicants must have completed a post-graduate clinical diploma or have completed the Department Of Corrections' Supervision to Registration programme.  All applicants must have current registration as a psychologist with the NZ Psychologists Board (clinical scope or general scope for forensically trained overseas applicants).

In return we can offer you:

• A connection within a vibrant supportive culture.
• A competitive salary.
• Flexible working hours once core activities are met.
• World class criminal justice psychology training and mentoring.

If you would like to know more about the Tai Aroha programme specifically then have a look at this link:

https://youtu.be/WiOjxc2dqZg

Utu ā-tau | Salary

The salary range for the role is $76,860 - $104,571 (Mid) - $125,485. We may also offer flexible and/or part-time options for working hours. Appointment and remuneration will reflect skills and experience relevant to the role. 

All overseas applicants are required to practice under the supervision of a Board-approved supervisor for 12 months or until otherwise approved by the Board. Please note that all applicants must hold registration with the New Zealand Psychologists Board and will be required to complete a full disclosure criminal history check and pre-employment drug tests.

https://psychologistsboard.org.nz/looking-to-register/registration-information/

Ara Poutama has relocation packages available for candidates relocating from overseas. For international applicants, please confirm your eligibility to register as a psychologist in New Zealand. You must be registered or registerable before we can consider you for appointment in terms of New Zealand law. The New Zealand Psychologists Board will advise you of your eligibility to register, please review the links below in the first instance.

https://psychologistsboard.org.nz/
https://www.nzccp.co.nz/
https://www.psychology.org.nz/

For Psychologists, applying for a visa to live and work in New Zealand has become much easier, please click on the link below for more information.

https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/qualifications-for-work/green-list-occupations

To find out more about working as a Psychologist at Corrections, click on the link to hear from our people: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0EleGUvXR4

Ko wai mātou | About us

Ara Poutama Aotearoa is a name that has been gifted to us and is our commitment to improving the oranga (wellness and wellbeing) and safety of the people, whānau, and that of the communities we serve across the motu (country). 

As a values-led organisation, we use our values of whānau (relationships), wairua (spirituality), kaitiaki (guardianship), rangatira (leadership), and manaaki (respect) to shape how we work and deliver the outcomes in our strategy - Hōkai Rangi (https://careers.corrections.govt.nz/strategy).

Tono ināianei | Apply Now

To apply, please submit a tailored CV and a cover letter describing your motivation for joining the department highlighting relevant skills and experience. Alignment to our kaupapa is critical to our success - we ask that you provide examples which reflect and demonstrate our organisation values. 

It is an exciting time to join us and we continue to seek out talented individuals who are committed to an inclusive, vibrant workplace. We recognise and celebrate the uniqueness of individuals, and that of the collective talent in our whānau.  All applications must be submitted through our careers site to ensure transparency. Applications received via email will not be considered. 

If you have any additional questions about Tai Aroha or this role please contact the Manager Psychological Services, Glen Kilgour, on 8581615 or 021769483.