Clinical associate in psychology (CAP) (integrated degree)
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Health and science 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Clinical Associate in Psychology (CAP) integrated degree apprenticeship trains you to deliver psychological assessments and evidence-based interventions under the supervision of a qualified psychologist in NHS or other mental health settings. The CAP role works alongside and below HCPC-registered psychologists, supporting individuals across the lifespan with a range of mental health difficulties. It leads to CAP roles within clinical and community psychology services.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Psychological theories and models underpinning mental health practice
Psychological assessment methods and formulation skills
Evidence-based therapeutic interventions such as CBT and DBT
Risk assessment and management in mental health settings
Professional practice, ethics and reflective supervision
Research methods and applying evidence to clinical practice
Lifespan development and diversity in psychological presentations
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out structured psychological assessments with service users
Develop formulations of presenting difficulties with a supervisor
Deliver individualised therapeutic interventions
Monitor and evaluate the progress of clients in treatment
Complete detailed clinical records and risk assessments
Attend multi-disciplinary team meetings and case discussions
Contribute to service audit and quality improvement activities
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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