Questions for current/and majoring psychologist — why did you feel like the field of psychology was the best option for you ?
Starting with the first question ^
2.) how long did it take/will it take to obtain your degree
3.) what kind of patients have you dealt with & what’s some essential advice you may give to patients despite them being different from one another
4.) what’s the best approach when starting therapy?
5.) How long do you think therapy should last? Do you think it’ should be a lifetime thing…
6.) what kind of conditions have you worked with? And how did you figure out those conditions were something that you could treat…
7.) which do you feel is more important, change or stability? Or do you feel like they kind of go neck & neck? Give a short but detailed explanation
1 answer
Duaa’s Answer
1. My fascination with psychology stems from my desire to delve into the intricacies of human behavior and the human mind, particularly in relation to our surrounding world. The global occurrences and societal dynamics have sparked my curiosity to understand the reasons behind people's thoughts, emotions, and actions. Therefore, I decided to pursue a dual major in pre-med and psychology, which seemed like an ideal combination. This allowed me to investigate both the biological and psychological facets of human health and well-being.
2. The path to achieving my degrees has been quite a journey. Post high school, I embarked on my first associate of science degree. After its completion, I moved on to a university to pursue a bachelor's degree in psychology. Concurrently, I also pursued another associate degree in psychology to gain access to more courses. This decision was influenced partly by financial factors, but it also enriched my knowledge base by including advanced courses. This journey required several years of committed study and determination.
3. In my professional practice, I've had the privilege to work with a diverse set of patients, each grappling with unique challenges. One crucial piece of advice I frequently impart, regardless of personal differences, is the significance of self-compassion. Many of my patients grapple with self-criticism and feelings of inadequacy. Learning to treat themselves with kindness and understanding can be a pivotal step in their healing process.
4. The most effective therapeutic approach varies for each individual. However, establishing trust, empathy, and collaboration is always the starting point. It's also crucial to set clear objectives and explore personal strengths and resources.
5. The duration of therapy is dependent on several factors, such as the issues being addressed and the client's progress. This is a joint decision, with a focus on achieving meaningful results.
6. I've had experience dealing with a variety of conditions, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and personality disorders. Identifying these conditions and assessing my ability to treat them involved a blend of continuous education, clinical experience, and consultation with peers and supervisors. Through ongoing learning and professional growth, I aim to stay updated about evidence-based practices and ethical guidelines to offer the best care to my clients.
7. Both change and stability play a vital role in mental well-being. The goal of therapy is to encourage positive change while providing stability and support. It's about striking a balance that fosters both growth and stability.
Psychology, for me, is more than just an academic discipline; it's a passion and a vocation. I'm thrilled about the opportunities it provides to delve deeper into the complexities of human behavior and contribute to the welfare of others. As I continue my journey in psychology and pre-med, I'm eager to learn, evolve, and ultimately make a difference in the lives of those I serve.
For you, Suhaylah, I believe psychology is a fantastic choice. It provides profound insights into the human mind and behavior, enabling individuals to better understand themselves and others. Through psychology, you will have the chance to explore diverse viewpoints, foster empathy, and make a significant contribution to society. I am confident that you will excel in this field and make a positive impact wherever your journey takes you.