Principal Psychologist Grade 1: Therapeutic and Counselling Services
Department of Correctional Services
- Location
- National Head Office, Gauteng
- Salary
- R1 295 388 per year
- Job type
- Permanent
- Work setting
- On-site
- Sector
- Government & public service
- Closing date
- 09 Nov 2026
Posted 7 days ago
What you need
- Qualification
- Master's
- Experience
- 3+ years
- Driver's licence
- Code 8 (EB)
Registrations / certificates: HPCSA registration as Psychologist
- Principal psychologist for therapy and counselling at DCS Head Office, Pretoria
- Qualification that allows HPCSA registration as a Psychologist
- Must be registered with the HPCSA
- At least 3 years' experience after registration
- Valid driver's licence
- R1 295 388 a year
How to apply
Apply on company website
How to apply: should be submitted online at https://careers.dcs.gov.za/. Emailed, post or hand delivered applications will not be considered. Official advert: DPSA Public Service Vacancy Circular 38 of 2026, post 38/14, ref HO 2026/11/23. Government applications usually need the new Z83 form and a detailed CV.
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Directorate: Psychological Services
Requirements:
An appropriate qualification that allows registration with the Health Professional Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as Psychologist in a relevant category (i.e. Clinical, Counselling, Educational, Industrial, Research Psychology). Registration with the HPCSA as Psychologist in any of the identified categories. A minimum of three (3) years appropriate experience as a Clinical Psychologist after registration with the HPCSA as Psychologist in any of the identified categories. Computer literacy. Valid driver’s licence. Competencies And Attributes: Extensive experience in the provision of therapeutic and counselling services. Experience in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of therapeutic intervention programmes. Knowledge and understanding of Public Service policies and mandates. Knowledge of all legislation, norms and standards that governs health care. Leadership interdisciplinary systems. PFMA – compilation of budgets, estimation, expenditure and reporting. Professional values and attitude. Applied strategic thinking, communication, project management, presentations and report writing skills. Service delivery standards. Coaching, mentoring and training. Project and programme management, decision making, problem solving, networking / liaison with stakeholders, negotiation, organising, conflict management, analytical thinking, policy development, analysis, monitoring, evaluation and implementation advice. Information collection.
Duties:
Management of therapeutic and counselling services. Provide professional and clinical guidance to Psychologists rendering therapeutic services in regions and correctional centres. Develop and review offender-focused therapeutic programmes aimed at addressing behavioural, emotional, cognitive, and social functioning challenges. Monitor the implementation and outcomes of therapeutic and counselling programmes nationally. Conduct and coordinate research relating to offender treatment, behavioural change, rehabilitation outcomes, and counselling interventions. Management of human resources, finance and assets. Management of performance information.
Notes:
Appointment under the Public Service Act.
Enquiries: National Head Office: Ms NS Khumalo Tel No: (012) 307 2174 or Ms TP Ngobeni Tel No: (012) 305 8589.
Reference number: HO 2026/11/23