The Newfoundland and Labrador government is introducing a $50,000 recruitment and retention incentive for clinical psychologists, aiming to address staffing shortages and reduce wait times for mental health services in the province.
The incentive is available to clinical psychologists who are currently employed by Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services (NL Health Services) or who accept a position with the health authority, provided they commit to a three-year return-in-service agreement.
Eligible candidates must be registered or eligible for registration with the Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board and cannot have previously received the province’s Come Home Incentive. NL Health Services will determine individual eligibility.
The move is part of a broader effort by the province, in collaboration with NL Health Services, Memorial University, and other stakeholders, to strengthen mental health services and stabilize the workforce.
“Clinical psychologists are vital to the health care system’s ability to provide essential mental health services,” said John Hogan, Minister of Health and Community Services. “We continue to work collaboratively with our health professionals and remain committed to ensuring we have the workforce needed to deliver these services.”
Gord Piercey, president of the Association of Allied Health Professionals, called the incentive “a great first step” toward improving access to psychological services. However, he noted that high vacancy rates and workplace challenges still need to be addressed.
NL Health Services CEO Dr. Pat Parfrey said the organization looks forward to the program’s impact on recruitment and retention efforts.
The province has been facing a shortage of clinical psychologists, leading to long wait times for mental health services. The new initiative is designed to attract and retain professionals in an effort to improve patient care.
