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Amanda
Student
Bradley, CA
1
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What would you say is the most important thing to remember when studying for a major in Psychology?
I am a high school senior getting ready to graduate and I am planning on studying Psychology, it would be great to know tips from people who have studied this. thanks!
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2 answers
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
161
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Amanda-
I have never heard this question asked and I LOVE it! What I find is that in terms of diagnosing patients some clinicians forget this is an art that takes a lot of skill and practice. It is better to have a differential diagnosis to start as a way to look closely and objectively at the symptoms. You can also always start with something like an adjustment disorder or unspecified and make the change once you have more information. It is truly not ideal to have to make a diagnosis within the first session of meeting a person, but this is what our insurance companies require. While there are providers who excel at this, particularly those who diagnose all day long- it is much better to have a more accurate grasp on a person's issues before making a judgement call that remains in their permanent medical record. While diagnoses are adjusted all the time, it can be frustrating for the patient and the provider when someone arrives with a host of diagnoses- many that are obviously incorrect and potentially stigmatizing. I am personally not an expert at this and prefer to consult with my psychiatry team whenever possible. This is something I stressed about and found many of my peers in the same boat near graduation (from our master's program). Diagnosis as a topic is controversial; and while you may not agree with the practice, if you work within a healthcare system you will have to do it. There is no way around it. On a positive note, diagnosing gives you and the patient more clarity, it can inform the treatment plan or medication, and it can bring someone peace of mind to know what they are dealing with. You will find your own groove; and perhaps you are someone who loves the DSM and all its many variations of categorization. FYI you cannot diagnose without a graduate degree!
The other thing I have found is that it is easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of modalities and techniques you can utilize when working with patients. Evidence Based Practices (or EBTs) are backed by extensive research; this (in my opinion) does not mean there are no other successful ways to work. We simply need more research studies which take time, money, and other resources. Follow your instincts and find what aligns with your unique personality and personal beliefs about helping people. Social media is full of marketing mumbo jumbo but does not address the nuances of a person's situation- what particular symptoms they are experiencing and in what contexts. If you find yourself trying to squeeze inside a box that does not fit, get out and construct your own box! What I mean by this is find your own style and be true to yourself. For instance, I am not a DBT therapist. I find it too rigid, and I am not a fan of anacronyms. I prefer more creative methods where I can lean on my intuition and build a solid therapeutic presence within a much less structured interaction. But again, everyone must find what works for them. And this may take time to develop.
Two more mini tips: you will want ongoing supervision even after you gain all hours for credentialling. You will always be learning! I learned the hard way it is useful to pay out of pocket for great supervision. It makes a huge difference. I found this out after years of subpar free supervision that did not provide what I needed regarding the development of myself as a therapist. Also, when it comes to ethics- always check in with someone (a peer, supervisor, etc.) when working with a suicidal patient for example, or documenting such an incident. They may also think of things you have not regarding best practice. I do this every time, though I have been in practice almost a decade.
Of course, not every psychology student works as a therapist. You may enter into teaching/academia or research. But as a therapist, this is what I can comment on :) Now go enjoy your studies!
I have never heard this question asked and I LOVE it! What I find is that in terms of diagnosing patients some clinicians forget this is an art that takes a lot of skill and practice. It is better to have a differential diagnosis to start as a way to look closely and objectively at the symptoms. You can also always start with something like an adjustment disorder or unspecified and make the change once you have more information. It is truly not ideal to have to make a diagnosis within the first session of meeting a person, but this is what our insurance companies require. While there are providers who excel at this, particularly those who diagnose all day long- it is much better to have a more accurate grasp on a person's issues before making a judgement call that remains in their permanent medical record. While diagnoses are adjusted all the time, it can be frustrating for the patient and the provider when someone arrives with a host of diagnoses- many that are obviously incorrect and potentially stigmatizing. I am personally not an expert at this and prefer to consult with my psychiatry team whenever possible. This is something I stressed about and found many of my peers in the same boat near graduation (from our master's program). Diagnosis as a topic is controversial; and while you may not agree with the practice, if you work within a healthcare system you will have to do it. There is no way around it. On a positive note, diagnosing gives you and the patient more clarity, it can inform the treatment plan or medication, and it can bring someone peace of mind to know what they are dealing with. You will find your own groove; and perhaps you are someone who loves the DSM and all its many variations of categorization. FYI you cannot diagnose without a graduate degree!
The other thing I have found is that it is easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of modalities and techniques you can utilize when working with patients. Evidence Based Practices (or EBTs) are backed by extensive research; this (in my opinion) does not mean there are no other successful ways to work. We simply need more research studies which take time, money, and other resources. Follow your instincts and find what aligns with your unique personality and personal beliefs about helping people. Social media is full of marketing mumbo jumbo but does not address the nuances of a person's situation- what particular symptoms they are experiencing and in what contexts. If you find yourself trying to squeeze inside a box that does not fit, get out and construct your own box! What I mean by this is find your own style and be true to yourself. For instance, I am not a DBT therapist. I find it too rigid, and I am not a fan of anacronyms. I prefer more creative methods where I can lean on my intuition and build a solid therapeutic presence within a much less structured interaction. But again, everyone must find what works for them. And this may take time to develop.
Two more mini tips: you will want ongoing supervision even after you gain all hours for credentialling. You will always be learning! I learned the hard way it is useful to pay out of pocket for great supervision. It makes a huge difference. I found this out after years of subpar free supervision that did not provide what I needed regarding the development of myself as a therapist. Also, when it comes to ethics- always check in with someone (a peer, supervisor, etc.) when working with a suicidal patient for example, or documenting such an incident. They may also think of things you have not regarding best practice. I do this every time, though I have been in practice almost a decade.
Of course, not every psychology student works as a therapist. You may enter into teaching/academia or research. But as a therapist, this is what I can comment on :) Now go enjoy your studies!
Thank you so much, I have always been someone who overthinks when it comes to my future, especially since I am a senior in high school and graduating very soon. I know I love Psychology, and I want to help people due to my own struggles with mental health. seeing that there's much more nuance to the field then a clear-cut method makes me feel less insecure about it.
Amanda
This makes me so happy! The questions you all ask are really wise. I joined this website hoping to give students a better understanding about my career choice and the field of psychology because I entered it not knowing many things. I want to help better prepare others as a result. Yes- so many nuances!
Annah Edmonds
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
962
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Amanda, that's an amazing mindset to have already!
Maintaining an open mind and curiosity is one of the most crucial things to keep in mind when studying psychology. The study of psychology encompasses a wide range of viewpoints, theories, and methods for comprehending human behavior. It's acceptable to come upon subjects that contradict your beliefs or emotions. Be open to investigating and learning from those concepts.
In addition, it helps you keep organized and relate what you're learning to your everyday life. Psychology is to understand individuals, not merely memorize theories. Explore how ideas relate to actual circumstances, interpersonal interactions, and even your personal experiences. That will improve retention and give your learning more importance.
Last but not least, don't be scared to contact professors and fellow students with questions. Discussion, empathy, and taking a different view are all essential to psychology. Sharing your ideas and participating in discussions can help you learn much more. Enjoy the ride and have faith in yourself as you enter a fascinating and fulfilling field!
Best wishes!
Maintaining an open mind and curiosity is one of the most crucial things to keep in mind when studying psychology. The study of psychology encompasses a wide range of viewpoints, theories, and methods for comprehending human behavior. It's acceptable to come upon subjects that contradict your beliefs or emotions. Be open to investigating and learning from those concepts.
In addition, it helps you keep organized and relate what you're learning to your everyday life. Psychology is to understand individuals, not merely memorize theories. Explore how ideas relate to actual circumstances, interpersonal interactions, and even your personal experiences. That will improve retention and give your learning more importance.
Last but not least, don't be scared to contact professors and fellow students with questions. Discussion, empathy, and taking a different view are all essential to psychology. Sharing your ideas and participating in discussions can help you learn much more. Enjoy the ride and have faith in yourself as you enter a fascinating and fulfilling field!
Best wishes!