Psychologist, Principal Specialist

Location of Post

Integrated Healthcare Area TBC

There is currently one permanent vacancy available in Sligo South Donegal Leitrim West Cavan Integrated Area

A panel may be formed as a result of this campaign for the role of Specialist Principal Psychologist from which current and future, permanent and specified purpose vacancies of full or part-time duration may be filled.

Informal Enquiries

Informal Enquiries : Dr Mark Hogan

Principal Psychology Manager

Email: markf.hogan@hse.ie

Tel: 086-0105366

Details of Service

The implementation of the Autism Assessment and Intervention Pathways protocol in the Regional Healthcare Areas will be supported by In-Reach Teams. It was estimated from the prototype carried out in Co Meath that an In- Reach team was required for every two CHN areas. It is understood in the first instance that 11 in-reach teams have been approved nationally for 2026 with a further 9 in 2027. Five of the six REO areas will receive two in- reach teams in 2026, and one REO area will receive one in- reach team initially to support service integration and the flow of client care.

The In-Reach Team will work in collaboration with Primary Care, Disability and CAMHS teams (core services) to support and/or undertake autism diagnostic assessments for children and adolescents, as appropriate to the local area service needs and configuration.

It is envisioned that the focus will be for children requiring an autism diagnostic assessment who have non-complex needs; and who cannot access a full diagnostic autism assessment in either CAMHS or Primary Care. Non-complex needs are defined by the National Policy on Access to Services for Children & Young People with Disability & Developmental Delay.

Existing referral pathways to core services will be maintained, acknowledging the move towards a single point of access (SPoA) in the regions. The In-Reach team will be engaged by the core service to complete/support a diagnostic autism assessment for open active cases, with the core service providing additional background information. There should be ongoing communication and collaboration between the core service and the In-Reach Team as the assessment is being conducted. The outcome of the assessment findings should be collectively and collaboratively agreed and shared.

The In-Reach Team may also support existing teams with a focus on enhancing their capacity in undertaking assessments. The goal is to make sure that children get the right care, at the right time, no matter where they live. These teams support the provision of services that are consistent, equitable and based on relevant healthcare evidence.

Reporting Relationship

The Specialist Principal Psychologist will report to an agreed Principal Psychologist Manager in the IHA area.

Key Working Relationships

Integrated Healthcare Teams (Previous primary care, mental health and disability teams/groups)

Integrated Healthcare Managers

Regional Healthcare Managers

Heads of Discipline

Heads of Service

Purpose of the Post

The Specialist Principal Psychologist will be a key member of the multi-disciplinary In-Reach team. The team, comprising of Specialist Principal Psychologist, Clinical Specialist Speech and Language Therapist, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist and admin support (Grade IV).

The team will work across the core care groups Primary Care, CAMHS and Disabilities . The in-reach team will work collaboratively with clinicians from the core service and the heads of discipline / service managers to ensure a co-ordinated and comprehensive service delivery to, and effective communication with, all stakeholders with the aim of providing integrated care. The post-holder will contribute significantly to service planning, development, evaluation and quality initiatives to the autistic community.

The Specialist Principal Psychologist will lead and be responsible for the effective delivery of a quality Psychology service within the In-Reach Team. They will advocate for neuro-affirmative practice. This service will be person-centred and strengths-based and will encompass Psychology service provision will include assessment, formulation, consultation, education and support. The Specialist Principal Psychologist will participate in audit and research ensuring client outcomes and satisfaction with service is at forefront of service development.

The post-holder will provide expert Psychology input and leadership to one or more service teams and sectors as required, as part of the In-Reach Team, and across services involved in autism assessment. All practice will be delivered in accordance with service plans and objectives, and within established professional standards, policies, and guidelines.