Meet a Psychologist
We caught up with Dr.Olga Lavalle who is a highly qualified and experienced Clinical and Consulting Psychologist. She provides services for those experiencing personal, relationship and work related difficulties. She provides specialist psychological services under Medicare, is an Employee Assistance Program provider, and approved WorkCover NSW provider.
What courses did you study to become a Psychologist? And tell us a bit about your current role?
I completed a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Psychology, then a 1-year postgraduate course in Psychology. After working as a psychologist for seven years, I completed a Masters in Clinical Psychology part time while working and then a Doctor of Philosophy (Psychology). Currently, I work in my practice as a clinical psychologist seeing patients with mental health issues, provide life coaching, and also speak with community and sporting organisations on mental health.
What does a Psychologist do on a day-to-day basis?
A psychologist’s job varies daily. They will see people for an assessment of their problems or provide treatment via different therapies. They will also administer psychological tests and interpret the results, liaise with various health professionals who are involved with the client and when necessary write letters /reports to referring agencies. Psychologists will attend case conferences, and will schedule in workshops or seminars to attend to keep up to date with current best practice methods. Psychologists can specialise in different fields, and a clinical psychologist specialises in the assessment and treatment of mental health disorders.
Dr. Olga Lavalle, who runs her own psychological practice.
What do you think are the skills a Psychologist should have?
The skills needed include:
- Interpersonal
- Listening
- Observational
- Communication
- Empathy
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Teamwork
What are the three things you absolutely love about your job?
- I love that my job varies daily and that I have control of my working week working in my own business.
- I love meeting new people and helping them make meaningful changes in their lives.
- I love learning; therefore, I enjoy reading about new developments in psychology, other psychologists blogs, or new self-help books to recommend to clients.
What advice would you give students aspiring to work in the counselling and psychology industry?
Start doing some volunteer work. Gain as much experience and learning working for an organisation to help you develop your skills. This will also help you to decide if you would like to pursue further study and in what specialty area. Make sure you leave work at work and don’t take on other people’s problems as your own. It’s important to set time aside for looking after yourself.
What is next on your career horizon?
Writing a self-help book.
Thank You,Olga for sharing your story with training.com.au
