Clinical Psychologist - Adult Community - Rural


  • Permanent position 20 hours per week (0.5FTE)
  • NZ Registration as a Psychologist with a clinical scope of practice is essential.

About the role

The Rural Team is the outreach team for Specialist Mental Health Services providing assessment and treatment for those with a moderate to severe mental health issue living in our rural communities between Kaikoura to the north and the Rakaia River in the south.  The position involves psychology specific assessment and treatment.

  • Permanent – 0.5 FTE position available for 20 hours per week.
  • Ability to work both autonomously and as part of a cohesive Multi-Disciplinary Team
  • Some contact with clients may be via telehealth, and there will also be travel to our rural clinics.

This position involves general Clinical Psychology work – principally for outpatients but may include a component of inpatient consultation.

In addition to general service training, specific professional development through ongoing education is supported. The Rural Team works from the same building as the urban sector bases, and there is a lot of opportunity to interact with  other clinical psychologists on the same floor, both informally and in a range of special interest groups.

There may be other part time positions available to apply for within SMHS depending on vacancies, that could tie in outside of the Rural hours.

About You

You will hold a minimum of a Masters in Clinical Psychology (or overseas equivalent), and Registration in the Clinical Scope of Practice. Previous experience in the Adult Mental Health field is preferred but your other skill backgrounds or experience will be given full consideration.

The position is a busy role where excellent interpersonal skills and organisational skills are vital. You will draw on your mental health experience to deliver comprehensive assessment and support to clients and their families/whanau and will be an active participant in our multidisciplinary team, working closely with referrers and colleagues from other agencies.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities. 

How to Apply

To apply please click “apply now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by Monday, 13th April. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Recruitment Partner Natalie Gaunt on Lisa.Gray2@tewhatuora.govt.nz

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.

Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected employees will be given preference and priority for this position.

Apply now

Permanent/Part Time

Job no: PC4145205

Location: Christchurch

Closing Date: Monday, 13th April 2026