Why is being a psychologist stressful

We all are. Because of the nature of the work, every psychologist is at risk for occupational stress.

Over the course of time, the interaction between events in the personal and professional life of a psychologist is certain to create stress, likely distress, and possibly impairment. This vulnerability to stress is not a reflection of pathology in the psychologist, but a reality of the challenge of our work. Professional isolation Inadequate consultation e. Take these risks seriously.

Honestly assess your emotional, psychological and spiritual well being on a regular basis. Clinical psychologists have lives outside of their professional practices. They deal with personal issues, such as loss, relationship problems and stress, just like anyone else. Another one of the challenges faced by clinical psychologists is the emotional stress experienced when there is interaction between personal issues and professional practice.

It can be difficult to put your own concerns on the back burner while attending to the needs of your clients.

The American Psychological Association's Code of Conduct points out that psychologists should not engage in practice if they feel that their personal problems will affect their professional role.

Instead, I had to fill out more paperwork, take additional classes, jump through seemingly senseless hoops and, of course, pay additional fees to get my psychology license in New York. The moral of this story: Do your homework and have a plan.

If you are thinking about transferring to a different psychological profession or moving to another state, first do your research. Check with the American Psychological Association, and search online for the requirements. It will save you time and hassle if you are prepared beforehand and know what to expect. Extensive research and knowledge in one subject area are incredibly beneficial, but you also need a well-rounded resume. In fact, the type of employers who hire psychologists are usually more excited by someone who has sought out and excelled in many different areas.

Not only does proficiency in a number of areas demonstrate intellectual curiosity, but it also indicates flexibility and an ability to excel outside of specialty areas. For instance, baseball teams love athletes who have excelled at baseball their entire lives, but they are also intrigued by players who exhibit mastery of many different sports. Unfortunately, this advice was not the best. That strategy may have worked for him in the academic world, and it may work for many others.

Even though they were impressed by my ability to write and were impressed by my knowledge, they also wondered how I would succeed in the fast-paced environment of a hospital or clinic. They questioned my ability to pivot quickly and solve unexpected problems.

It may be unfair of hiring managers to compartmentalize potential candidates in this manner, but it quickly became a pattern in interviews. I had to adapt. Of course, the opposite is also true: If you have clinical experience only and have never published, it is just as easy to be pigeonholed in that area. Literally hundreds, if not thousands, of students graduate every year with a degree in psychology who have no interest in becoming a psychologist.

So, if your ultimate goal is to become a psychologist, you must pay closer attention. Hosting free support group sessions and advertising in the local media are other promotional options. Some professionals enjoy this aspect of running their business, but some feel that it takes away valuable time that could be devoted to therapy work. Like any career, being a psychologist has both advantages and disadvantages. Only you can determine if the good outweighs the possible downsides.

Spend some time researching your options in order to find the job that is the right fit for you. Ever wonder what your personality type means? Sign up to find out more in our Healthy Mind newsletter. American Psychological Association. Insurance claims Avoiding common payment pitfalls. Careers in Psychology [Interactive data tool]. Burnout amongst clinical and counselling psychologist: The role of early maladaptive schemas and coping modes as vulnerability factors.

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