Psychology Matters: “I’ve learned that no change is too small to put effort into.”

Why do you think Psychology Matters? 

Psychology matters because it's often psychology that helps us makes sense of complicated and difficult human experiences during challenging times. A lot of the work I do is with people affected by Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma, which includes working with people to help them understand what happens when their brain is in 'threat mode.' 

A person's brain being in 'threat mode' will affect how they view and respond to the world. Somebody can look as if they're doing fine, but inside, they may constantly feel under threat. So, it can sometimes look as if they are getting up every day and keeping going, but inside, they are managing all these extra feelings, distressing thoughts/ images, and fears at the same time.  

There's a power in using psychological formulation to trace through their experiences with them and ask, 'Where did these thoughts/feelings/responses come from and why are they happening?'  

This can help someone understand that they're in a really difficult situation, but that they can understand it better and then figure out, 'How do we move forward from here?' Working together is the crucial part of this process – using the psychological skills but really listening to and including their specific experiences. 

A person's brain being in 'threat mode' will affect how they view and respond to the world. Somebody can look as if they're doing fine, but inside, they may constantly feel under threat.  

Tell us about the impact of your own work in Psychology 

My first qualified job as a clinical psychologist was working at the Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability. This experience taught me a lot of valuable lessons which have influenced my work in psychology. I learned that no change is too small to put effort into.  

I learned that significant change can be a slow burn, how to have a hopeful, optimistic and practical approach, and the importance of strong teamwork. I learned that it is essential for clinicians to look after themselves and each other as well as supporting the people we are working alongside clinically.  

These were all lessons that I find continue to influence my approach to working clinically. I have found that they are also important therapeutic tools which can impact how people see their situation and help their ability to move forward. 

What makes you proud about working in Psychology? 

Having some brilliant and really effective 'tools' - such as formulation. These can have a life-changing impact, as they help people to understand what has happened to them. As well as looking at challenges people have faced, using formulation, we can look at ways that they've shown resilience and the resources they can draw upon. 

Sometimes people need help to recognise that despite being in a really difficult situation, they still get up, come to appointments. They've still got a great sense of humour, a love of music or reading or they enjoy spending time with friends or family.  

Whatever it may be – helping people notice and draw on their own resources and strengths is a way psychology can make a huge and very real difference as they work to find a way to move forward in their life.  

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