Case studies

"It is a privilege to have insight into so many people’s lives and to try and help them see themselves and their world differently."

I provide specialist psychological care to adult patients who have a long-term physical health condition.

As a clinical psychologist working in health psychology my role is to provide assessment and intervention based on the relationships between emotions, behaviour, thoughts, biological and social aspects of health.

Direct patient work involves a wide range of interventions, including but not limited to:

• supporting people adjust to illness and identify coping skills to manage aspects of their treatment
• educating patients (individually or in groups) on making lifestyle and behaviour changes to improve health
• helping to reduce distress where this is interfering with treatment and recovery from treatment
• psychological therapy to address anxiety/stress/depression related to a person’s health condition
• assisting patients in making informed decisions about their care.

The role entails working with other health professionals, including as part of a multi-disciplinary team, providing staff supervision, and collaborating with others to increase awareness and understanding of psychological distress. My job also involves service development, evaluation and audit.  

Where I started

My career path started with an undergraduate degree followed by a masters and a postgraduate certificate. I did my Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Newcastle University. In between my degrees I worked in research and mental health.

After I qualified I worked in a different NHS Trust for eleven years - also in a health psychology department - before joining Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Trust.

What do you love about your job?

The patients and staff I work with! I see a variety of patients in a range of settings which means my day-to-day job is always different and challenging. People share their stories with me; it is a privilege to have insight into so many people’s lives and to try and help them see themselves and their world differently.

I believe psychology can have a positive impact on people’s lives. It’s important to me that psychologists keep reinforcing that psychological health and physical health are interconnected and as important as each other when we are caring for people.

In the last couple of years, issues of diversity and equality have become much more talked about in the workplace. It has been a welcome change to be able to have conversations about sensitive topics.

Any tips for finding a job that you love?

Look for something that fits with your values and that you are passionate about. I love my job; that’s important to me as we spend approximately a third of our lives at work!

To become a clinical psychologist takes dedication and hard work. You have to be committed because it takes a lot of years to get there!

Psychology is a wide-ranging field and some people might want to explore other areas to see what fits with their interests, such as educational psychology, forensic psychology, sports psychology.

Sometimes you might have to do voluntary work to build up skills.

Tell us about any unusual aspects of the job

I work across many sites, which means my role is varied. I’m based at the RVI, but I also work at Regent Point, at the Freeman occasionally, and I go out to community sites such as GP practices and leisure centres. I see outpatients and inpatients.

What are your usual working hours?

9am-5pm Monday to Friday. Although this changes to meet service needs. Sometimes evening working is required.

What training is needed for your job?

Clinical psychologists who work in health psychology have specialist knowledge and advanced training in applying psychological theories and processes, research skills and clinical practice.

An undergraduate Psychology degree.

Sometimes a Masters degree or a postgraduate course relevant to psychology.

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (three years).

The courses must be accredited by the British Psychological Society.

As well as the formal qualifications, you will be expected to have gained experience working as an Assistant Psychologist, Research Assistant, or other relevant experience.

Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Why should someone come and work in your department?

I have supportive and enthusiastic colleagues. We have a fantastic admin team. 

The psychology service is valued within the Trust and we have great relationships with the teams we work with.