Meet Josh Coelho, ABP Kickstarter

At the ABP we are passionate about nurturing the psychology talent of the future, so we’d like to introduce Josh Coelho, who is working with us as part of the government Kickstart Scheme. The scheme offers six-month job opportunities for young people aged 16 to 24 years old, where they can learn transferable skills that will increase their chances of obtaining sustained employment.

What made you apply to the Kickstarter scheme?

This was the only entry level psychology related job, I believed it was a good opportunity to further a career in psychology and gain an understanding of how psychology could be applied away from a clinical setting

Tell us about your background (study etc)

After completing my A levels, I went on to do a BSc in Psychology, and graduated during the pandemic. I am currently studying for my MSc in Psychiatric Research at Kings College London, alongside my job at the ABP.

My previous work experience is varied, for example during university I was a playworker and worked in housekeeping. A really important clinical work experience that I value, was my time as an intern at an IAPT service. In this role, I delivered workshops and conducted patient assessments to individuals with common mental health disorders. It was this experience that consolidated my passion for working in the psychology field.

What are you working on at the ABP?

I am currently working on some research for NexGen, where we want to discover what resources students and early career practitioners would like from the ABP. I am also helping the transition team, trying to get more members to transition to the new membership categories. Other than that, I assist in administrative duties such as helping organise the member area and joining in some events such as the new member sessions.

Who inspires you?

My inspiration is Dr Barbara Wilson. She is a neuroscientist who gave a guest lecture during my undergraduate. She has done great work in neurorehabilitation, has an OBE and multiple awards including four lifetime achievement awards.

What are you hoping to go on to do?

I aspire to get onto the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and hopefully work in research or neurorehabilitation.

What’s an interesting fact about you that may surprise us?

I went to the same school as Tom Holland, who plays Spider Man, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe

What have you learnt so far from working with the ABP and how do you feel it will benefit your career?

I have learnt about the versatility of business psychologists and how important they can be in a variety of organisations. I have also learnt about the importance of networking with a community which would be beneficial for career growth, building relationships and gaining new insights