Yes, I am a Psychologist
Please remember that my blog is a ‘lucky dip’ which describes various aspects of my life, including my profession, and some of my opinions. It is not a psychology blog per se.
What is a Psychologist?
A PSYCHOLOGIST IS AN ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL WHO IS AN EXPERT IN HUMAN BEHAVIOUR
A PSYCHOLOGIST IS NOT A MEDICAL DOCTOR
Psychology, in Australia, is a regulated profession. In order to practice as a psychologist it is essential to register with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA) which is under the umbrella of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
There are a number of different pathways to registering as a psychologist in Australia. Successful completion of an accredited undergraduate degree is the first step; followed by postgraduate studies which offer a range of pathways to becoming a psychologist. In order to register as a psychologist there is a minimum requirement of 6 years of study and work experience.
I am registered as a Clinical Psychologist; consequently I am required to complete 60 hours of Professional Development each year in order to maintain my specialist registration.
As my knowledge and experience encompasses most developmental stages I am fortunate to be able to counsel clients who range in age from 3 years to 80 years.
A few of my Beliefs
Since I began practising as a psychologist, over 40 years ago, I have shared some of my beliefs with many of my clients.
- Everybody has some issues, no one is immune. Yes, the nature and severity of issues definitely varies considerably. Regardless of the particular issues, I decided many years ago that everyone can benefit from 2 essentials in their home – A COUNSELLOR, preferably a Psychologist, and A PUNCHING BAG. My belief remains pertinent today.
A few people have expressed concern about my suggestion re the use of a punching bag – worried that it could increase aggression. To this day I am not aware of any of my past or present clients ‘coward punching’ or killing anyone!!
2. Nobody is an Island and there are always others willing to support and assist. There is a beautiful proverb which encompasses this belief – ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. Trying to ‘go it alone’ and solve everything yourself is an unnecessary burden. I have become aware of the use of this concept permeating the younger generations – often believing that Google and social media will provide all necessary advice/assistance. Unfortunately this often tends to result in isolation from knowledgeable and experienced people in their community.
Multicultural Practice
Working as a psychologist I have had the fortune of meeting and counselling people from a variety of countries, cultures and religions – my practice is indeed multicultural and I see it as a blessing. My knowledge and understanding of distinct beliefs and customs has enhanced my practice, and life, as I have learned important ‘lessons’ from each of my clients.
A few notes re Psychological Practice in General
The role of a psychologist is not to provide advice., Our goal is to explore, provide information and empower clients to become aware that they have the capacity to grow, become confident and have the ability to make choices and decisions which resonate with them.
I have never believed in Psychological ‘cookbooks’ – every person is unique so it is essential that I choose appropriate tools for each client. There are certainly some ‘evidence based’ processes and techniques, which have been devised for specific population groups, which could be included in the session/s. Over the years I have acquired a reasonable toolbox and am currently in the process of learning some ‘new’ techniques…….I have not retired yet!!!
Psychologists differ considerably with regard to their backgrounds, personality, beliefs, knowledge and life experiences. The FIT between a client and psychologist is central to the therapeutic process. There are some clients who have decided that I am not the most appropriate psychologist to assist them. In turn, I have chosen to refer a number of clients to other counsellors for a variety of reasons.
The practice of counselling/therapy has changed considerably in the past 40 years. Initially we were instructed to reveal a minimal amount of information about ourselves during sessions. While this tenet has now changed it is essential that a psychologist does not ‘hijack’ their client’s session or appear disinterested and pay minimal attention as the therapeutic relationship will suffer.
If you are a client and any of the following occurs at the beginning of the counselling process hightail it out of there – it is your session!! Examples – Client – ” I have an extremely ill family member and I am anxious about them.” Psych -“Yes, I have a really ill family member too.” Client – “I am having great difficulty falling asleep at night!”. Psych – “I understand, I have that problem too”.
I understand the periodic need, for the clinician, to answer an important phone call during a session. When, however, this occurs repeatedly it interrupts the flow and is disrespectful to clients.
It is the evolving therapeutic relationship that is at the core of counselling/therapy. This can be achieved using a range of different approaches and techniques – no one size fits all.
Phrases I have ben noted to use most frequently
- Don’t forget to breathe
- One step at a time
- Be kind to yourself
- Healing is a journey which requires patience and tolerance
Counselling/therapy offer an opportunity to explore and heal in a safe, supportive milieu. It is likely to be exhausting, confronting and painful, at times, as growth occurs. Remember there is no flight into health.
Apparently there is an extremely ‘helpful’ phrase used by a number of my clients in discussions with their family members – “ROS SAYS”…..
If you believe that any of my posts could assist others please share my blog address/URL with them.
Aside – I decided to introduce different colours to highlight some words/sentences and make my posts more easy to digest. My choice is random – there is no psychological significance!!!!
Take care, stay safe, remember that smiling and laughter are good for all of us