Roles & Responsibilities
Head of Psychosocial Department
What if dementia care could be more than managing decline — what if it could be about creating joy, connection, and purpose every single day?
At Apex Harmony Lodge, Singapore’s only dedicated dementia-care nursing home, we’re looking for a Head of Psychosocial Department (HOP) who believes the answer is yes!
The Lodge is a 210-bed healthcare facility which provides a safe, nurturing and engaging environment for persons with dementia (PWDs) so that they may thrive and live well. The HOP will be the strategic and operational leader driving AHL’s psychosocial vision. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role leads a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, social workers, and engagement specialists to deliver evidence-based PWD care that improves residents’ quality of life, strengthens family partnerships, and advances sector-wide best practice.
The ideal candidate is a clinical psychologist with leadership and research experience, a strong foundation in elderly and dementia care, and the ability to inspire teams to embrace innovation while staying grounded in compassion and dignity.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Team Development
- Shape and execute a psychosocial care strategy that integrates clinical, emotional, and social wellbeing for PWDs
- Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team to deliver excellence in dementia care, behaviour support, and resident engagement
2. Person-Centred Psychosocial Care for Residents with Dementia
Lead the development and implementation of individualized living well care plans that address cognitive, emotional, and behavioural needsOversee regular assessment of residents’ mood, behaviour, and cognitive function, adjusting interventions accordinglyPromote non-pharmacological approaches to managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementiaProvide guidance in regular rounds, assessments, behavioral interventions, and crisis management3. Evidence-Based Practice and Research
Drive adoption of non-pharmacological interventions, cognitive stimulation programmes, and behavioural support frameworks (e.g. Validation Therapy , Reminiscence Therapy , Montessori approaches ) to enhance residents’ quality of life)Lead research initiatives, including conceptualization, data analysis, and reportingOversee dementia care innovation and research with our partners, evaluate programme outcomes, and share learnings through sector collaborationsWork with internal and external partners to enhance our environment as a therapeutic and inspiring space4. Staff Training, Coaching, and Support
Supervise, mentor, and develop and train staff in the multiple clinical departmentsBuild the psychosocial skills and confidence of nursing, allied health, and care staff through structured training in communication, de-escalation, and empathetic engagement with residentsProvide case discussions and supervision for complex behavioural casesFoster a shared culture of dignity, respect, and emotional sensitivity to residents’ needs across the organisationSupport staff resilience and reduce burnout through reflective practice sessions and mental wellness initiativesPartner with nursing, medical, and corporate teams to ensure psychosocial principles are embedded in daily care routinesKey Competencies
Visionary leadership grounded in person-centred and ability-centred careStrong background in dementia psychology, behavioural interventions, and emotional wellbeingProven capacity to lead and inspire multidisciplinary teamsSkilled in translating evidence-based research into practical, sustainable care modelsExcellent communication and relationship-building skills with staff, residents, families, and partnersResilience, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to advancing dementia careRequirements
Master’s or Doctorate in Clinical Psychology or related discipline with substantial dementia-care experience.Preferably already registered with Singapore Psychological SocietyMinimum 5 years’ leadership in healthcare, eldercare, or dementia-focused settingsExperience in developing and implementing psychosocial care programmes for PWDsFamiliarity with Singapore’s eldercare frameworks, subsidies, and regulatory requirementsis an advantageTell employers what skills you have
Coaching
Report Writing
Psychology
Leadership
Ability To Work Independently
Interpersonal Skills
Psychological Assessment
Treatment
Healthcare
Team Development
Applied Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Adaptability
Stimulation
Interventions
Mental Health
Wellbeing
Crisis Management
Case Management
Screening