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This article has been adapted from episode 120 of The Aspiring psychologist Podcast. If you prefer you can listen here or watch here.
Welcome to the Aspiring Psychologist Blog! I'm Dr. Marianne Trent, and today's episode is a fascinating conversation with Dr. Juliet Young, a qualified clinical psychologist renowned for her creative approach to the field. In this blog article, we'll explore Juliet's journey into psychology, her training experiences during the pandemic, and the transition from trainee to qualified psychologist.
The Early Spark of Interest
Dr. Juliet Young's journey into psychology began in secondary school. A rebellious student, she found inspiration in Tanya Byron's TV show, "Little Angels," where a psychologist helped parents understand their children's behavior. The seed planted by a teacher's suggestion to become an educational psychologist lingered. Juliet started with a BTech, discovered psychology's allure, and pursued a psychology degree at the University of East London.
Exploring Educational Psychology
Initially drawn to educational psychology, Juliet worked in an eating disorder facility. However, her interest pivoted after reading Dr. Tanya Byron's "Skeleton Cupboard," emphasising clinical psychology's role in understanding individuals' needs. This revelation led her to crisis teams in mental health services, offering a broader perspective.
Balancing Passion and Practicality
Undeterred by a challenging commute from Bristol to London for her master's, Juliet embraced the experiences. She took a job as an assistant psychologist, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Juliet acknowledges the pressure aspiring psychologists face but emphasises the importance of enjoying the journey. She highlights the financial challenges many encounter, urging aspiring psychologists to balance their passion with practical considerations.
The Transition to Clinical Psychology Training
Qualifying in clinical and community psychology at UEL, Juliet's journey took another turn. Despite challenging moments, including a daunting commute and unpredictable weather, Juliet cherished the freedom and inspiration found in her studies. She encourages aspiring psychologists not to rush and savour each step of their journey.
Navigating Training During the Pandemic
Juliet's training coincided with the pandemic's onset, presenting unique challenges. Remote placements and online lectures brought unexpected hurdles. She reflects on the importance of peer contact and suggests potential research into the autonomy and self-directed learning experiences of pandemic cohorts.
Transitioning from Trainee to Qualified Psychologist
Entering the world as a qualified psychologist, Juliet feels ready for the next stage. While acknowledging the ongoing learning process, she appreciates the transition into a values-based role that aligns with her interests. Missing out on therapeutic approaches
Juliet shares her personal experiences of missing out on important Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) training sessions, highlighting the perpetual challenge of balancing time and commitments in a demanding profession. She candidly expresses the difficulty of fully grasping complex therapeutic concepts like ACT, acknowledging the need for revisiting and deepening her understanding of such modalities.
Navigating Diverse Roles
Dr. Marianne Trent guides the conversation towards Dr. Young's role, exploring whether she works a split post. Dr. Young provides a glimpse into her multifaceted responsibilities, seamlessly moving between teams that deal with children in foster care and those in asylum seeker and refugee clinics. The complexity of her work involves delving into attachment, trauma, and developmental trauma, offering a holistic approach to mental health. The conversation touches on the challenges of working with asylum seekers, where Dr. Young reflects on the limitations of traditional therapeutic interventions in the face of systemic issues. She shares the delicate balance of validating clients' struggles while offering therapeutic tools, emphasising the importance of safe relationships in the healing process.
The Therapeutic Power of Illustrations
Dr. Young unveils her passion for illustrations and how she seamlessly integrates drawing into her clinical work. With a background in drawing since childhood, she describes the therapeutic power of illustrations, which not only aids in conveying complex ideas but also fosters creative expression. Dr. Young's approach is not just about clinical expertise; it's a unique blend of creativity and therapeutic innovation.
The discussion takes an exciting turn as Dr. Young shares her journey into public illustration through a tablet during the pandemic. The positive response on social media surprises her, indicating the widespread appreciation for her ability to distill complex psychological concepts into visually accessible illustrations.
Chapter 5: From Concept to Book
Dr. Young narrates the journey from being contacted by an editor at Jessica Kingsley Publishers to collaborating with Dr. Catherine Butler and Dr. Rachel Pascal on the book, "An Illustrated Guide to Clinical Psychology." She discusses the unique approach of creating an illustrated guide that serves as a valuable resource for aspiring psychologists, newly qualified professionals, and those working alongside psychologists.
Reflecting on the imminent release of her book, Dr. Young shares the surreal experience of seeing the final proof and the excitement of holding a physical copy in her hands. The book, available on Amazon and major bookstores, promises to be an accessible reference for a diverse audience, offering a visual journey into the world of clinical psychology.
The Privilege of Being a Therapeutic Companion
Dr. Young reflects on the privilege of being part of her clients' stories, particularly in her work with asylum-seeking children. The challenges of navigating mental health within complex life situations underscore the importance of safe relationships and validation in the therapeutic process.
Conclusion - Bridging Creativity and Clinical Expertise
The blog article encapsulates the essence of Dr. Juliet Young's engaging conversation, providing readers with a window into the dynamic world of clinical psychology. The unique integration of visual elements adds an innovative dimension to the field, emphasising the adaptability required to navigate the complexities of mental health care.
Closing Note:Â As clinical psychology continues to evolve, practitioners like Dr. Young exemplify the innovation and dedication necessary for navigating the rich tapestry of human experience. The conversation serves as a testament to the transformative power of creativity in enhancing mental health support.
Grab your copy of Dr Juliet Young's brilliant new book: An Illustrated Guide to Clinical Psychology by clicking here.
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