Getting to know the Perinatal Faculty - Laura Waring

Name: Laura Waring

Role: Pre-Qualified Rep & Early Career Rep. 

Length of service: 2021- Present 

Responsibilities: Facilitation of the Early Career Group (ECG), social media, and events support.

Prior to beginning my psychology career, I was a nursery nurse in a variety of NHS and private sectors. This early exposure to developmental psychology allowed for the growth in my understanding of children and the complex relationships they may hold with their care givers. 

Whilst working as an assistant psychologist in a Specialist Perinatal Service, I found the unique experiences of this speciality. Navigating how we hold space for our clients, and manage our own reactions, whilst often sharing the therapeutic space with baby is a challenge that I enjoy. Seeing attachment theory at play, really allowed for the growth of my even deeper respect for the complex nature of parenting and the journeys of birthing people. During this time I published an article in the Psychologist about the role of an assistant psychologist within a specialist perinatal service (which you can read online).

Due to wanting to broaden my knowledge, impact, and leadership skills, I applied for the pre-qualified representative seat on the faculty. 

Reflections on my time in the Faculty

Whilst in this position, I transitioned into a senior assistant psychologist role in specialist neurorehabilitation service and recently gained a place on the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I have found such value in the transferable skills and knowledge I have gained whilst being a member of the faculty. 

I wish to hold space and sensitivity to those navigating their early career in psychology, particularly at this time of year. In no way does the outcome of applications determine your readiness for training, ability as a practitioner or in any way quantify your importance to this profession. 

In joining the faculty, I feel that my passion, confidence, and competence has grown. Particularly my confidence in belonging in the places where decisions and changes are made. Our experiences matter, and those of us navigating our early careers are the future of this profession. Therefore, what we think, and how we feel matters.

Ways I have been involved as a Faculty Committee Member

Pre-Qualified Representative 

Within this role, I offer reflections from a pre-qualified perspective to the faculty's meetings and activities. This may highlight some implications in practice or support with development of and dissemination of the evidence base. Projects can include research and service development. 

Early Career Representative / ECG Group facilitator 

As someone transitioning from a senior assistant psychologist role to a trainee clinical psychologist role, I support the facilitation of our ECG. This is a supportive space for myself and others in the early strides of their career in perinatal. Our group is often used as a reflective or peer supervision space. I will disseminate and discuss any relevant work or topics that come directly from the faculty e.g., development of an early career research award. 

Events and Social Media support 

The posts seen on X are often shared by myself, or another member of our communications team. I am directed by the faculty on sharing upcoming events, policy updates or development of resources. 

Regarding our webinars, I support where needed to facilitate the events. This often includes liaison with external services or providers to facilitate an accessible and enjoyable experience for our faculty members.