Choose to interview a currently practicing clinical or school psychologist. You may also interview someone else in the applied mental health field whose career is of interest to you. (E.g., some past students have chosen to interview their high school guidance counselor or a social worker with a clinical practice.) The questions, below, are intended to provide guidelines for your interview. You likely won’t have time to ask them all: feel free to focus on what is of most interest to you and to take the interview in other directions as well. After completion of the interview, please write a paper (approximately 5 pages in length) which includes: 1) where the interview took place and how long it lasted; 2) the information you obtained from the interview and 3) reflections on what you learned from the interview relevant to your own career thinking/planning.
- Please describe each of your current occupational roles. (Include if relevant: 1) job title; 2) services performed; 3) clients or customers; 4) major activities in role.)
- Describe a typical day (include details).
- For each of your roles, describe some typical, illustrative cases and/or projects in which you have recently been involved.
- What do you enjoy most about your work? How (if at all) does it differ from what you
imagined during your professional training (e.g. undergraduate, graduate school, etc.)?
- What are some legal and/or ethical issues you deal with?
- How diverse are the patients or students on your caseload? How (if at all) are the needs of
diverse individuals distinct from others?
B. CAREER PATH IN THE FUTURE
- How would you describe your present career path – that is, where do you see your career
headed to in the future? (Ask for specific details if needed.)
C. DEVELOPMENTAL INFLUENCES ON CAREER TRAJECTORY
- What led you to decide on a career in this field?
- Before starting graduate school, what were some of the major influences on you that
contributed to your professional identity and roles today?
D. CONCLUSION
- Do you have any recommendations for undergraduates in terms of guidelines for developing
a successful and satisfying career path?
- Is there anything else you would like to add?
Full Answer Section
- hat is a typical day like for you as a clinical psychologist?
Dr. Doe's day typically begins with seeing patients for individual therapy sessions. In the afternoon, she may meet with supervision groups, provide consultation to other professionals, or work on administrative tasks. She also dedicates time to ongoing professional development and training.
- What are some of the most common challenges you face as a clinical psychologist?
Dr. Doe noted that some of the most common challenges she faces include dealing with difficult emotions, managing time effectively, and setting boundaries with patients. She also mentioned the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
- What are some of the most rewarding aspects of being a clinical psychologist?
Dr. Doe expressed that the most rewarding aspect of her work is witnessing the positive changes that her patients make in their lives. She also finds it fulfilling to be able to provide support and guidance to people during challenging times.
- What advice would you give to someone considering a career in clinical psychology?
Dr. Doe's advice to aspiring clinical psychologists is to be passionate about the field, to be willing to work hard, and to be prepared for a long and demanding but rewarding career. She also emphasized the importance of gaining experience through internships and volunteer work, and of seeking out guidance from experienced professionals.
Reflections on the Interview
My interview with Dr. Doe was an incredibly insightful and informative experience. I was particularly struck by her passion for her work and her dedication to helping others. She also provided some valuable advice that I will take with me as I continue to explore my own career path.
One of the most important things I learned from Dr. Doe is the importance of self-care in the field of clinical psychology. She emphasized the need to set boundaries with patients and to take time for oneself in order to avoid burnout. This advice is especially relevant to me as I am someone who tends to put the needs of others before my own.
Another key takeaway from the interview is the importance of ongoing professional development. Dr. Doe shared that she regularly attends conferences and workshops to stay up-to-date on the latest research and trends in clinical psychology. She also mentioned the importance of networking with other professionals in the field.
Overall, my interview with Dr. Doe was a valuable learning experience. I am grateful for her time and insights, and I am confident that the information I gained will be helpful as I continue to explore my own career path in clinical psychology.
Conclusion
I would like to thank Dr. Jane Doe for taking the time to interview me. She is an inspiration to me and to others who are considering a career in clinical psychology.
Sample Answer
Interview with a Practicing Clinical Psychologist
Introduction
I had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Jane Doe, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Dr. Doe is currently in private practice in Nairobi, Kenya. Our interview took place at her office on Thursday, November 16, 2023, and lasted for approximately one hour.
Interview Questions
- What led you to pursue a career in clinical psychology?
Dr. Doe shared that she has always been interested in understanding human behavior and helping others. She was particularly drawn to clinical psychology because it offered a unique opportunity to combine her passion for psychology with her desire to make a positive impact on people's lives.