Psychiatrist | Intellectual Disability/Learning Disability Service

Consultant Psychiatrist – Intellectual Disability Mental Health Service

Christchurch Hospital | Permanent Full-Time (Part-Time Considered)

• Rare opportunity to work in a highly specialised and rewarding area of psychiatry
• Join a supportive multidisciplinary team delivering genuinely person-centred care
• Enjoy a lifestyle second to none in Christchurch and Canterbury

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

This is an opportunity to build a fulfilling and meaningful career in one of New Zealand's most established Intellectual Disability Mental Health Services.

As a Consultant Psychiatrist, you will provide specialist assessment, diagnosis and treatment for adults with intellectual disabilities and co-existing mental health needs. Working across inpatient and community settings, you will support people with complex presentations including dual diagnosis, neurodevelopmental disorders, challenging behaviours and forensic interfaces.

What makes this role unique is the opportunity to practise psychiatry with depth and purpose. You will have the time to develop therapeutic relationships, work collaboratively with whānau and support networks, and contribute to care plans that create lasting improvements in people's lives.

You will be part of a highly experienced multidisciplinary team committed to delivering compassionate, strengths-based care while promoting dignity, inclusion and equitable health outcomes.

This is a permanent full-time position, however we are open to discussing flexible or part-time arrangements for the right candidate.

About the Service

The Intellectual Disability Mental Health Service provides specialist assessment and treatment for adults with intellectual disabilities and complex mental health needs throughout Canterbury.

The service includes:

• PSAID – a six-bed specialist inpatient unit
• Whaikaha – a four-bed high-care unit
• A dedicated community outpatient team providing ongoing wraparound support

Our clinicians work across inpatient, community and forensic settings, fostering strong partnerships with other services and agencies to ensure seamless, person-centred care.

This is a collegial, values-driven service where multidisciplinary collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.

About You

We are seeking a psychiatrist who combines clinical excellence with compassion, curiosity and a commitment to improving outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities.

You will have:

• Vocational registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (or eligibility for registration)
• Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (FRANZCP) or equivalent specialist qualification
• Experience or a strong interest in intellectual disability psychiatry, neurodevelopmental psychiatry or related fields
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• A collaborative approach and commitment to multidisciplinary practice
• A passion for equitable, person-centred care

Why Choose Canterbury?

Canterbury offers an exceptional quality of life, combining a thriving city with some of New Zealand's most spectacular natural landscapes.

Whether your interests include skiing, mountain biking, surfing, tramping, food, wine or simply spending more time with family, Christchurch provides the perfect balance between professional satisfaction and personal wellbeing.

With affordable living, excellent schools, a modern healthcare system and an international airport on your doorstep, Canterbury is an increasingly popular destination for specialists seeking both career development and lifestyle.

Working at Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of Aotearoa New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and serve our communities.

We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled and rainbow communities and are committed to being a good employer that honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi and promotes equity in health outcomes.

How to Apply

To apply, please click "Apply Now" through our online careers portal.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and we may progress suitable candidates prior to the closing date.

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact:

Amy Walker
Recruitment Specialist
Amy.Walker@tewhatuora.govt.nz

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

Apply now

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