Day In The Life : Psychologist

 

Errors in thinking such as overgeneralizing, magnifying negatives, minimizing positives and catastrophizing are traits that many of us have at times. But when these errors in thinking start to control your life, it is time to consider seeking some advice. Today we spoke with a psychologist, who told us a little more about her role.


Can you sum up your main responsibilities?


My responsibilities include completing assessments following receipt of a specific referral. Such referrals might be for individuals, families, groups or staff teams. I will then assess the client’s needs, develop a formulation and make recommendations regarding how their needs might best met by the specialist psychology service I work within. I also deliver therapy myself to individuals and families and draw upon psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural and systemic models of therapy. I also train staff teams and consult to groups and organisations. Therefore it is very important that I keep myself up to date regarding current legislation, research and therapeutic models.


I supervise both Assistant Clinical Psychologists and Trainee Clinical Psychologists. I also oversee research and audit projects within the department to ensure that we are monitoring the interventions and the outcome they have. A large part of my work is sharing my understanding of systems, individuals, groups and families with others and this may be through teaching, presentations or reports. It also is my responsibility to identify and share risks with others as necessary.


Did you require further education to get to your current position?


I completed a four year undergraduate degree in psychology which included a placement year. I have also completed a three year doctorate course in Clinical Psychology. More recently I have completed the graduate and post graduate certificate in systemic and family therapy.


What are the working hours like?

I work 37.5 hours per week, 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. These are hours that fit very well with my life at present.


What are the pluses and minuses of working as a psychologist?

The work is varied and dynamic and I have the opportunity to be creative in how I approach my work. No day is ever the same and I enjoy working with clients and delivering training and consultancy. It is a very rewarding and meaningful job but at times it can be stressful due to the responsibilities I hold and the risks that we have to assess and hold.