A PATHWAY designed to increase the number of locally trained clinical psychologists within children’s mental health services has confirmed its second doctorate placement.
Natasha Belim, who works with Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services, will begin her studies at the University of Southampton in September 2026.
Unlike traditional routes into the profession, her clinical placements will all take place in Jersey.
The opportunity is part of a partnership between CAMHS and Southampton University which is intended to help develop more locally trained clinical psychologists.
It follows the decision in 2024 to offer the same arrangement to Ross Lawless, the first trainee to take part in the programme while remaining in Jersey. He is now starting his second year of study.
For Jersey students who study psychology, progressing into the profession can be difficult. Although many return to the Island after completing psychology degrees, they can lack the experience needed to gain a place on a Clinical Psychology doctorate.
Those who do secure a place have traditionally had to move to the UK to complete their training, and some have remained there after qualifying.
The local route means trainees can develop their specialist skills while continuing to live and work in the community they will ultimately serve.
Darren Bowring, associate director for Mental Health and Wellbeing, said: “This is exactly what our partnership was designed to achieve, creating opportunities for local people to access specialist training while remaining in Jersey.
“Clinical psychologists are a highly skilled profession that can be difficult to recruit to. By investing in local talent, we are developing a sustainable workforce of professionals who understand the Island, its communities and the needs of local children, young people, and families.
“This approach strengthens our succession planning and helps ensure CAMHS can continue to meet demand for psychological support in the years ahead.”
