I got approved as a Provisional Psychologist. So what’s next?
This blog was written for any other provisional psychologist or fellow psychology student, or even anyone interested in what it’s like to work in this field. Hope good things happened for you this week. This week I got approved as a Provisional Psychologist! Thank you, Thank you, to everyone who advised , supervised me and pulled me out of the bin to get me here.
I’m still waiting on the baby certificate that they send on this occasion. Hmmm, maybe they’ve forgotten? In any case I’ll chase that up even though it’s neither here nor there, but it’s nice to have.
Surfing the nerves – Approved! What next?
Honestly, I’m having a monster attack of imposter syndrome right now. Hello, big-time anxiety?! A little bit of anxiety helps us, right? Indeed anxiety can sometimes keep us safe and keep us stimulated. Research says anxiety and excitement can trigger the same neurological pathway in our brain as fear.
Wondering about these things, I’ve thought maybe I’m just excited? But either way , I know in my gut that I’m ready to attack this chapter. I have skills, knowledge, and values and I know I am a good human who belongs in this field.
Good enough?
Do I know enough?
Am I going to help my clients?
Will I know what to say or do on my feet?
How am I going to go via telehealth?
What if my clients don’t like me?
What if I can’t keep them engaged?
Getting going now I’m approved as a Provisional Psychologist
All my initial appointments first be diagnostic intake interviews using a structured approach. For example, a set of questions that ask specific questions so that in return you get opened ended answers, gives a better insight into the client’s life.
This feel’s great as it means I have a guide to work off. As I’m fresh out of the academic world, this support is very reassuring. Especially as I’m getting to grips with the ethics of being a working psych and following the code of conduct and some actual laws.
Note down EVERYTHING because note taking is key.
There’s loads of admin that we don’t get told about in our undergraduate or post-graduate degrees. The sheer volume of it can be overwhelming and I would like to share some strategies to avoid that.
Ensure you keep on top of your case and client notes, and your readings.
Please, for the love of god, note, take your readings. Signpost and flag anything you deem essential and file kit where you can find it.
Be specific, but don’t write things that you know will be damaging. Be careful but don’t become consumed.
Get really proficient at taking notes.
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