How to Practice as a Psychologist in the United Kingdom?

23 Dec How to Practice as a Psychologist in the United Kingdom?

Are you planning to pursue a career in psychology in the UK? Read on to learn more!
If you graduated in psychology in Italy and have taken the significant step of moving to the UK, you may be unsure about the procedures to continue or even start your career abroad.

---

What to Keep in Mind?

First, it’s important to distinguish between the roles of psychologist and counsellor in the UK:

• To become a psychologist, you need a university degree.
• To become a counsellor, a degree in psychology is not required. Instead, you’ll need to complete a training program lasting 2 to 4 years, depending on the specialization.

Once you’ve earned your degree, specializations, or PhD, you can apply for membership with the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Documents Required for BPS Membership:

• Documentation in English proving your qualifications.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Evidence of UK residency (e.g., tenancy agreement, bank account statement, etc.).
• A reference letter from a professor or former employer, attesting to your personal and professional skills.

Once registered with the BPS, you can practice independently or work in private facilities.

---

Recognizing Italian Qualifications in the UK

If you earned your qualifications in Italy, it’s advisable to first register with the Italian professional register (Albo) and then proceed with the recognition of your credentials for employment within the NHS (National Health System).

---

How to Proceed?

The process may be lengthy, but it is achievable with patience and perseverance.

For beginners or those struggling with bureaucracy, the easiest option is to apply for a temporary provision, which allows you to practice various healthcare professions in the UK. This permit is issued by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Key Points about the Temporary Provision:

• It is not designed for the recognition of qualifications but offers an opportunity to gain experience in a different system.
• The main restriction is that you cannot be employed under a full-time contract.

At the end of the permit, you can either renew it or proceed with full HCPC registration (HCPC Registration Details).

---

Permanent Registration with the HCPC

With full registration, you’ll receive a permanent provision, certifying your ability to practice in the UK without restrictions regarding the type of employment contract (e.g., occasional or full-time work).

---

What Documents Are Needed?

The required documents are numerous and include:

• Application form.
• Diploma Supplement detailing your academic studies.
• Certified translation of your degree certificate and transcript of exams.
• Certified translation of your Italian professional register (Albo) registration.
• Proof of European citizenship.
• A reference from someone who has known you for at least three years (not a relative).
• A sponsor, such as a colleague registered with the professional body, to vouch for you.
• Proof of previous work experience within the NHS.

---

Need More Information?

For further questions or assistance, feel free to contact us:

• Phone: +44 (0)78 2434 7667 (also available on WhatsApp)
• Email: cristina@wordsathand.com
• Messenger

Office Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM