Rachel W.

Principal Clinical Psychologist
Happy to mentor
Happy to be contacted

About me

Rachel W.
Psychology
Forensic Psychology
Taught Postgraduate
Derwent
United Kingdom

My employment

Principal Clinical Psychologist
NHS
United Kingdom
Healthcare

More about Rachel

Parent whilst studying
Low Income Household
Mature student

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A day in the life of a Principal Clinical Psychologist in the United Kingdom

Psychology can be a challenging career pathway, particularly clinical. Stay true to your own values and try to enjoy the journey!

Briefly describe the organisation you work for

Large mental health trust.

What do you do?

Work with agencies to support young people and families/carers where there are high risk/high harm/high vulnerability concerns, including offending. Trauma informed care initiatives.

Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?

History of psychological work in forensic/secure services. Including prisons, mental health inpatient and personality difficulties.

Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?

I assumed I would stay in forensics. I did always think I’d stay in adult services but I’m still enthused (and frustrated!!) to try and input earlier in someone’s life.

Describe your most memorable day at work

When you see a smidge of change in the therapeutic relationship. Always bring joy!

What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?

Art, dog walking, hiking, gin therapy with friends :)

What would you like to do next with your career?

Moving to work with organisations outside the NHS to provide mental health support and trauma informed organisational practice.

What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?

Psychology can be a challenging career pathway, particularly clinical. Stay true to your own values and try to enjoy the journey!

Next steps...

If you like the look of Rachel’s profile, the next steps are down to you! You can send Rachel a message to find out more about their career journey. If you feel you would benefit from more in-depth conversations, ask Rachel to be your mentor.

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