One on One with Trainee Clinical Psychologist Kate Cudmore

Can you tell me a bit about yourself and what inspired you to pursue psychology as a career path?

I previously worked as a make-up artist, and then as an events manager, but I have definitely always had a keen interest in psychology. I was unfortunately put off by some really poor teaching at A-level, which resulted in me dropping the subject. However, when I worked with the military, I spent a lot of time speaking with people about their different experiences and rehabilitation, and my interest in psychology was revived. I then decided to do an undergraduate degree and it evolved from there really!

You're involved with the BPS Pre-Qualification group; can you tell me about that?

I attended a Pre-Qualification Group conference in Southampton literally weeks before the pandemic hit. I had been searching for a way to get involved in psychology outside of work for a while, and this day just really piqued my interest to get involved in clinical psychology on a more personal level. I am a big believer in being a part of something rather than complaining about it so I try to be an active member.

I applied to the committee and am now the representative for the Children Young People and Families Faculty. I attend the faculty committee meetings and bring the pre-qualified voice to these. I also feedback to the Pre-Qualification Group committee and am involved in wider issues within those meetings. Since I have started training, I find that being a part of some applied psychology helps to re-balance my confidence when imposter syndrome kicks in around assignments.

You're currently undertaking a doctorate in Clinical Psychology; can you briefly talk me through your journey of getting onto the doctorate, and how you knew it was the right doctorate for you?

I think the journey to the clinical doctorate can be quite confusing. Pre-pandemic I visited a few universities to learn more but found that they weren't always welcoming. I found this really helped me to get a feel for how the universities approached their students. As an older applicant I have always felt a sense of ownership of my application choices. I stopped applying to some universities after these visits. I'm not great with the screening tests so started to also consider this in my applications.

I initially never planned on going to Staffordshire university, as I had already moved away from the area once so had no intention of settling back there. In some strange turn of fate though, Staffordshire University became my first choice after I attended a talk with the course lead during the pandemic. I got one reserve interview and then was offered a place at Staffordshire university, so I was happy with that.

What is life on the doctorate in clinical psychology like; and what does a typical day look like for you?

I find life on the doctorate a constant balancing act of pressure, learning and workload. I feel well stretched, but with space for soothe. We are in person for lectures at university and on placement we are blended working. Every day is different, and can be different again depending on your placement. At the moment, I am on placement with a Community Learning Disabilities Team. My role here involves carrying out clinical work, attending team meetings, supervision; and a 'golden hour' meeting to discuss a case – I enjoy these as they involve discussion around formulation from different disciplines.

On a typical university day, we have lectures. My course is very values based and reflective, so I enjoy being able to have meaningful discussions with my cohort.

Tell me about your research interests...

At the moment I am looking into children's residential care home support workers. My first two Assistant Psychologist roles were in children's residential care in private health and I think this is an area which is neglected in research as most research focuses on foster care or adoption. I am interested in child development and the impacts of adverse experiences, and also staff wellbeing so in many ways this bridges the two areas.

What do you enjoy most about your role as a Trainee Clinical Psychologist?

I really enjoy the space for study. I found that as an Assistant Psychologist everything was instructed to me. However, as a trainee you have the space to turn this and become more self-guided.

What do you find most challenging about your role as a Trainee Clinical Psychologist?

I find the assignments quite stressful – I didn't get my undergraduate degree until I was 36 years old, and haven't done a masters so this is definitely not my comfort zone. I put in some extra leg work to find support and learning for this though.

Doing a doctorate is a significant undertaking, how do you balance academic and clinical demands of the course, whilst also maintaining a life outside of work and university?

I try and give myself achievable goals and I celebrate the small achievements. I make sure I book into activities to do in the evenings too; and I have psychology free time at the weekends.

I have some health issues which means that sometimes I can be quite limited with my abilities and don't have much space for anything else. On these days I try and be realistic about where I am at and put less pressure on myself. I gave up on comparing myself to others years ago, and I think that is quite key.

What would you advise others that are interested in pursuing the clinical doctorate?

Do things outside of your work, give yourself context and experiences. Live your life, and learn about yourself!

Fauzia Khan is an Assistant Psychologist currently working within the NHS, whilst completing her Doctorate in Counselling Psychology.