KAMRAN
As a psychologist, have you ever been affected personally by your patient's story or stories?
As a person who often listens to their peers about their problems, I have often found myself thinking about those peers and their story. #psychology #counseling-psychology
3 answers
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Best Way to Reach Out to a Professional and Ask to Shadow
Reaching out to professionals in the field of psychology or related areas for shadowing opportunities can be a valuable experience for a college student looking to explore career options. Here are some steps you can take to effectively reach out and ask to shadow a professional:
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5. Follow Up:
If you do not receive a response initially, don’t hesitate to send a polite follow-up email or make a brief phone call to inquire about the status of your request.
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By following these steps and approaching professionals in a respectful and professional manner, you increase your chances of securing a valuable shadowing experience that can provide insights into potential career paths within the field of psychology.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides guidelines and resources for students interested in pursuing careers in psychology, including tips on networking and gaining practical experience through shadowing.
Psychology Today: Psychology Today offers insights and advice on various aspects of psychology careers, including articles on how students can connect with professionals in the field for mentorship opportunities like shadowing.
Verywell Mind: Verywell Mind is a trusted source for mental health information and career guidance in psychology. Their articles often provide practical tips for students seeking hands-on experience through shadowing professionals in the field.
GOD BLESS!
James.
Lo C.
Lo’s Answer
I recently had the experience of working with several individuals who were dealing with some pretty bad trauma. I think that if you weren't effected by it in some way then you would not have been drawn to the helping professions in the first place. However, as I've gone through my counseling program I have been taught many ways to engage in self care and it has been very important to intentionally engage in self care (taking a walk, taking a bath, meditating, watching a funny movie, etc.). You might still wonder how your past clients are doing but you learn about your role in their life and you simply have to have faith that you planted a seed, that you helped in some way and learn to let go.
We are also encouraged to get counseling ourselves! Anyone can benefit from counseling and there is something called vicarious trauma that helping professionals can experience which is being traumatized by hearing about and helping clients process their own trauma. Having a supervisor that you meet with regularly can be extremely helpful with this as well!
Jeanne Miller
Jeanne’s Answer
Hi Kamran,
I think every therapist feels affected by patient stories at times. That is part of being human. But I have an advantage over the patient - because I've seen people get better, I know that chances are we will be able to work out whatever we need to, so I am not generally affected as intensely as the patient is by their story. Also, over the years of education, training, and practice, I've learned to take care of myself and have good boundaries between me and my work. Personal therapy helps a lot with this, as well. The better we know ourselves, the better we can focus on what is happening for the patient and help them.