Starting your DClinPsy training? Here’s five tips to help you get started
It’s that time of year where, if you’re a clinical psychology trainee, you’ll be embarking on the next step on your journey – starting your DClinPsy training.
15 September 2022
While you're getting settled into your new routine, our Division of Clinical Psychology Pre-Qualification Group have put together some top tips to help you get started.
1. Congratulate yourself
Reflect on where you've come from, your achievements and how hard you've worked to get here. We know how competitive the application process can be and no matter if it was your first or tenth time applying, you've made it! Don't downplay that. Reward yourself, you deserve it.
2. Create a vibrant place to work
You might find you're more productive when you have a designated area to work in. Carve out an area that you feel comfortable. We'd recommend somewhere that's free of clutter, near natural light and with limited distractions. Maybe add a plant, a motivational quote, or photo that will boost creativity.
3. Build your support network
Connecting with other trainees on your course is important. These are the people who you will hopefully be lifelong friends with.
Take the time to get to know your course mates - you're going to be spending a lot of time with them. Many qualified psychologists continue to see the friends they made on their courses decades ago.
Cohorts often set up Facebook groups, so find yours and connect with others. Meet up at the start of the course to chat and talk about what you're looking forward to or any concerns you may have. Everyone will be feeling anxious and excited and will have lots of the same questions as you.
You can also speak to family and friends about what the course entails to help manage expectations about your free time because that is likely to change. Not only is support on your course important, but it is so valuable to have space away from psychology when needed.
4. Get to know where you're living
You may be moving to a completely new city for the course, or even a new country. Find out a bit about the area before you start by connecting with other trainees who already live there or go for a walk to find that regular coffee shop to help see you through the days.
Every city will have that little nook that will make you feel at home, so get out there and explore. If you have a hobby, then ensure that this can be part of your new routine when you're on training. Setting this up before you start training can help you build a positive habit from the beginning.
5. Last but not least, relax
Beginning your training may seem stressful to start with, so get in that much needed TLC. Life doesn't stop when training starts, so don't forget about the other aspects of life that are not related to psychology. Continue with your other interests and hobbies that make you who you are.
You've got this!
If you're looking for more advice and support from clinical psychology trainees just like you, our Division of Clinical Psychology Pre-Qualification Group are here for you. We represent clinical psychology trainees from across the UK and we'd love you to come on board.