Clinical Psychologist/Psychiatric Social Worker

Introduction

The National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) is a premier institute in India, dedicated to the study, treatment, and rehabilitation of mental and neurological disorders. As a prestigious government-funded institution, NIMHANS plays a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of mental healthcare across the nation. It serves as a hub for research, education, and clinical excellence, providing advanced care to thousands of patients every year. Because of its stature, working at NIMHANS is considered a highly coveted opportunity for professionals in the field of psychology and social work.

NIMHANS has announced a specialized recruitment drive for the positions of Clinical Psychologist and Psychiatric Social Worker. This specific vacancy is aimed at filling roles on a contract basis to support an ongoing research project. These roles are critical because they involve direct patient interaction, psychological assessment, and providing psychosocial support to individuals dealing with complex mental health issues. The recruitment is unique as it follows a "Walk-in" format, which requires candidates to be prepared with all necessary documentation and personal expertise on the day of the selection process. This opportunity is ideal for highly qualified professionals who possess both the clinical expertise and the linguistic skills required to serve diverse populations in Bengaluru or Thrissur.

The recruitment targets individuals who can bridge the gap between medical treatment and psychological well-being. Whether you are a Clinical Psychologist specializing in therapeutic interventions or a Psychiatric Social Worker focusing on community support and social integration, this role at NIMHANS offers an unparalleled platform to contribute to high-impact research while working under the guidance of some of the best minds in mental health. Prospective candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, particularly the requirement for MPhil qualifications and proficiency in Malayalam, before attending the walk-in test.

Highlights / Quick Overview

Application Fee

| Free (No fee applicable) | | Last Date / Exam Date | 08/07/2026 | | Job Location | Bengaluru / Thrissur, Kerala | | Employment Type | Contractual (Research Project) |

Post-wise Vacancy Details

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification

To be eligible for the post of Clinical Psychologist or Psychiatric Social Worker at NIMHANS, candidates must possess a specialized postgraduate qualification. Specifically:

• Clinical Psychology Path: Candidates must hold an MPhil in Clinical Psychology from a recognized university or institution.
• Psychiatric Social Work Path: Candidates may also apply if they hold an MPhil in Psychiatric Social Work from a recognized university.
• Language Proficiency: A mandatory requirement for this specific role is proficiency in spoken and written Malayalam. This is crucial due to the nature of the research project and the diverse patient demographic served in the region.

Age Limit

Candidates must fall within the following age bracket to be considered for the position:

• Maximum Age: 35 Years (as on the date of application/walk-in).
• Applicants over the age of 35 will not be eligible for consideration.

Nationality

The post is open to candidates who are citizens of India. Candidates must possess valid identity documents and proof of residency as required by government norms.

Important Dates

Application Fee

The recruitment process for this specific project-based role does not require any registration or application fee.

Selection Process

The selection process for the NIMHANS Clinical Psychologist/Psychiatric Social Worker role is designed to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Since this is a walk-in recruitment, the evaluation happens on the day of attendance.

1. Walk-in-cum-Written Test

Candidates who arrive at the designated venue on 08/07/2026 will first undergo a written test. This exam is designed to test the candidate's understanding of clinical psychology, mental health disorders, psychiatric social work principles, and general awareness related to mental healthcare in India.

2. Skill Test

Following the written test (or as part of the integrated selection process), candidates will be evaluated on their practical skills. For a Clinical Psychologist, this might include case study analysis or demonstrating counseling techniques. For a Psychiatric Social Worker, this may involve assessing social support systems and community intervention strategies.

3. Interview

The final stage is a personal interview with a panel of experts from NIMHANS. The interview will focus on the candidate's experience, their ability to handle complex patient cases, their proficiency in Malayalam (if applicable for communication), and their suitability for the specific research project requirements.

Salary / Pay Scale

The selected candidate will be appointed on a contract basis specifically for the research project. The remuneration details are as follows:

• Designation: Clinical Psychologist / Psychiatric Social Worker
• Monthly Salary: Rs. 68,000/- (Fixed)
• Nature of Appointment: Contractual for the duration of the research project.

How to Apply Step by Step

Since this is a Walk-in Selection process, there is no online application form to fill out beforehand. However, candidates must follow these steps to ensure they are prepared for the selection day:

1. Verify Eligibility: Ensure you have an MPhil in either Clinical Psychology or Psychiatric Social Work and can speak/write Malayalam fluently.
2. Check Age Limit: Confirm that your age is below 35 years as of the walk-in date.
3. Prepare Documents: Gather all original educational certificates (10th, 12th, Graduation, Post-Graduation, and MPhil).
4. Photocopies: Prepare a set of self-attested photocopies of all your academic and professional certificates.
5. Resume Preparation: Prepare a detailed CV/Resume highlighting your experience in mental health, internships, and any research work conducted.
6. Identify Venue: Confirm the exact location (Bengaluru or Thrissur) as specified in the official notification for the walk-in.
7. Timing: Plan to reach the venue by 09:30 A.M. on 08/07/2026, as the selection process begins strictly at 10:00 A.M.
8. Identity Proof: Carry a valid government-issued ID proof (Aadhar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID).
9. Walk-in Attendance: Present yourself at the designated venue with all original documents and your resume for the written test and interview.
10. Final Selection: If you clear both the written/skill test and the interview, the selection will be communicated by the NIMHANS authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is there an online registration for this post?
A: No, this is a "Walk-in" selection process. You do not need to register online; you must attend the venue with your documents on 08/07/2026.

Q2: What is the total number of vacancies for Clinical Psychologist?
A: There is only 1 vacancy available for the combined post of Clinical Psychologist / Psychiatric Social Worker.

Q3: Is Malayalam language proficiency mandatory?
A: Yes, candidates must have a good command over spoken and written Malayalam to be eligible for this specific role.

Q4: What is the monthly salary offered by NIMHANS for this post?
A: The selected candidate will receive a monthly salary of Rs. 68,000/- on a contract basis.

Q5: Can a candidate with an MA in Psychology apply without an MPhil?
A: No, the eligibility criteria specifically require an MPhil in Clinical Psychology or Psychiatric Social Work.

Q6: What is the age limit for this recruitment?
A: The maximum age limit to apply for this position is 35 years.

Q7: Where will the selected candidate be posted?
A: The role involves working in either Bengaluru or Thrissur, depending on the requirements of the research project.

Q8: Is there any application fee for this post?
A: No, the application process and selection are free of cost for all candidates.

Q9: What are the stages of the selection process?
A: The selection involves a Walk-in-cum-Written Test followed by a Skill Test/Interview.

Q10: Can I apply for this post if I am currently working in another hospital?
A: Yes, you can apply; however, since it is a contract-based role for a research project, you must be available to work as per the terms of the contract.

Conclusion

The recruitment by NIMHANS for Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatric Social Workers offers a prestigious opportunity for mental health professionals to contribute to high-impact research in one of India's premier institutes. Given the specialized nature of the role, the requirement for an MPhil and proficiency in Malayalam highlights the specific needs of the project. While there is only one vacancy, it provides an excellent career milestone for those looking to work in a government-backed clinical environment.

Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for both the written test and the interview components. Since this is a walk-in process, preparation is key—ensure your documents are organized, your resume highlights your specific skills in psychiatric social work or clinical psychology, and you are prepared to demonstrate your expertise on the day of the selection. Don't miss this chance to join NIMHANS and contribute to the advancement of mental healthcare in India. Stay updated with official notifications and ensure you reach the venue well before the scheduled time on 08/07/2026.