Are you intrigued by the complexities of human behaviour, passionate about making a positive impact, and constantly seeking to understand the workings of the mind?
If this sounds like you, it might be time to consider a career in clinical psychology.
To shed light on what it's really like to work in this field, we sat down with clinical psychologist and UQ Master of Clinical Psychology and PhD graduate Dr Jenni Silva.
Jenni’s journey into psychology began with a quest for self-discovery, sparked by her experiences as a parent and her fascination with child psychology-themed TV shows. But it didn't stop there. As she pursued education in psychology, Jenni found her true calling in the realm of neurodivergence – a field where she continues to excel and evolve alongside her clients.
What is a clinical psychologist?
A clinical psychologist is a mental health professional trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of psychological disorders and emotional difficulties. They use evidence-based therapies and interventions to help individuals overcome challenges, improve their mental wellbeing, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Clinical psychology remains an immensely fulfilling and meaningful career path for me, driven by my passion for helping others thrive.
My role as a clinical psychologist
As a clinical psychologist, I'm dedicated to supporting mental health and empowering neurodivergent individuals. My responsibilities include working with clients of all ages, offering supervision and training, and providing evidence-based treatments for diverse mental health conditions. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference.
In my profession, I:
- conduct psychological assessments
- formulate diagnoses
- develop treatment plans
- deliver psychoeducation
- provide evidence-based interventions.
I'm deeply influenced by attachment-based methodologies, notably Dr. Dan Hughes' work, prioritising a secure therapeutic environment. Neuroscience, neurobiology, and insights from experts like Dr. Dan Siegel inform my practice, emphasising the interconnectedness of the mind, brain, and relationships.
I focus on therapeutic work across all ages, applying a positive psychology framework that highlights strengths. Utilising evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioural therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), I tailor interventions to individual needs.
In my focus on child, youth and adult psychology and neurodiversity, I approach each client with warmth and understanding, recognising their unique differences and neurodivergent strengths. Collaboration with families, schools, and colleagues ensures comprehensive care for every client.
As the director of the Brilliant Minds Psychology practice, I lead a compassionate team of psychologists and occupational therapists. Together, we create a supportive environment where clients feel valued and understood at every stage of their journey.
I'm energised by the dynamic nature of my work and find immense fulfilment in guiding children and families through the complexities of mental health and developmental differences.
Discovering passion and purpose in my career journey
The most fulfilling part of my job is witnessing the incredible transformations my clients undergo as they embark on journeys of self-discovery, growth, and healing. Every interaction is a chance for both of us to learn and develop, inspiring me to continually enhance my practice.
Building genuine connections with my clients is another deeply rewarding aspect of my role. Creating a supportive and nurturing environment allows for profound therapeutic experiences.
Psychology is a dynamic field, offering endless opportunities for learning and growth. I'm currently diving into Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is incredibly intriguing. This therapy helps reduce distress from traumatic memories and is also beneficial for anxiety and depression. I'm excited to explore its potential further.
Beyond individual client sessions, I'm dedicated to driving progress and innovation within our clinic. Constantly seeking new avenues for growth ensures that we provide top-quality care to our clients and sharing information with the community via social media platforms.
Additionally, I take joy in mentoring and training aspiring psychologists, passing on the knowledge and experience that have shaped my own journey in this field. It's incredibly rewarding to contribute to the next generation of mental health professionals.
Exploring the pros and cons of clinical psychology
As a clinical psychologist, I've encountered both the positives and challenges of working in this field:
Positives
For me, one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a clinical psychologist is the deep sense of fulfilment derived from helping individuals overcome their challenges and lead more fulfilling lives. Witnessing the progress and growth of my clients is incredibly gratifying and serves as a constant source of motivation.
I also cherish the opportunity to exercise creativity in problem-solving. Each client brings unique needs and circumstances, allowing me to explore innovative solutions tailored to their specific situations. This diversity in client needs fosters innovation and keeps my work engaging and dynamic.
Moreover, the flexibility to establish my own private practice offers me autonomy and control over my professional endeavours. This freedom allows me to create a practice environment that aligns with my values and goals, enhancing both my personal and professional satisfaction.
Furthermore, the field of psychology is a realm of perpetual learning. Whether it's discovering innovative therapies or gaining insights from my clients' experiences, there's always something new to explore and learn from, enriching both my knowledge and practice.
Challenges
Certainly, the demanding nature of therapy, coupled with the emotional intensity of working with clients facing significant challenges, can increase the risk of burnout among professionals like myself. Prioritising self-care and maintaining boundaries is crucial to prevent exhaustion and ensure my wellbeing.
Additionally, the long hours often required in clinical psychology can be challenging. Balancing the needs of my clients, which may include evenings and weekends, running the business, alongside personal responsibilities can be demanding.
Moreover, navigating difficult interactions with clients presenting complex issues or challenging behaviours requires patience and professionalism.
Nevertheless, the rewards of positively impacting individuals' lives far outweigh the challenges. Despite the occasional hurdles, clinical psychology remains an immensely fulfilling and meaningful career path for me, driven by my passion for helping others thrive.
How to become a clinical psychologist
In Australia, achieving the title of psychologist involves completing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in psychology to obtain registration.
Undergraduate psychology
- Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychology major)
- Bachelor of Science (Psychology major)
Postgraduate psychology
- Master of Clinical Psychology
- Master of Clinical Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology
- Master of Psychology, with a focus on:
- Master of Organisational Psychology
If you're not seeking professional registration as a psychologist, you may also be interested in:
