Pre-qual Spotlight Blog: How to manage pre-interview anxiety for the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology

The lead-up to your Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) interview is a big life event, and it is natural to feel anxious or worried about this. We all know that letting our nerves take over can negatively impact our performance on the day and potentially make us miss out on a spot for that year's cohort. Here are five ways which can help you to manage those worries in the lead-up and on the day of your interview to let you feel more confident and ready to shine.

1. Tackling the uncertainty

The perceived uncertainty of a potential interview can often fuel our anxiety in the run-up to the date. Figuring out ways you can implement sensible preparation (but not overwhelm yourself) can be a good way to take back control. This could mean:

• Know your story: Be ready to talk about your journey, what sparked your interest in clinical psychology, and why this program is the perfect fit for you. The more you own your narrative, the more confident you'll be about sharing it with the interview panel on the day.
• Researching the program: Try going beyond the course brochure. Reach out to current trainees on social media or see if the university can link you with a current trainee for a brief informal chat to ask any questions you may have. You can also think about how the course aligns with your specific goals.
• Practice makes (almost) perfect: Mock interviews can be Marmite, but getting experience talking through your thoughts can help to focus on clarity and conciseness. Whether it be with a friend, family, mentors, or by yourself.
• Get the logistics right: Plan your travel, accommodation (if needed), and what you'll be wearing on the day. Ticking these simple things off your list will free up mental space for more important things.

2. The night before countdown

It is natural to be nervous about a big event like a DClinPsy interview the evening before. If this is something you particularly struggle with, think about ways you could plan relaxation or schedule a sleep routine around this potential disturbance. This could be planning a chill night in with a friend and partner, or scheduling some downtime outside the house in an activity or hobby you find relaxing. We are often pressured to do last-minute cramming, but no amount of final reading will beat a good night's sleep and feeling recharged and at your best the next morning.

3. The morning routine

The morning of your interview can be a stressful time, even if you were able to get some rest the night before, but also putting some planning into this could help ease some of the anxiety and tension on the day. If you are having to travel for an interview, think about if it is possible to get there the night before to avoid any issues with traffic or public transport. Have yourself some breakfast ready and your favourite morning beverage; even if you don't have an appetite because of the nerves, it will be good to grab something small to take with you for when you do eventually get hungry. 

4. Your personal toolkit

Think about previous experiences you have had with interviews and reflect on what worked well (or not so well) in the past. Try creating your own personal toolkit of ways you can help manage your anxiety on the day. For example, if you are doing an online interview, is there a particular scented candle or fragrance you can spray in your room which calms you, or a fidget toy you can have to reach to support you during the interview. For in-person interviews you could consider a person who you can call on your journey to the interview who can help take your mind off it and give you some positive words of affirmation. 

5. Remember your "why"

Amongst all this planning, preparation, and stress it is easy to get caught up on this and lose sight of the important reason why you are going for this interview in the first place. Stay connected with the things which drive you in life outside of psychology, these can quickly be forgotten about but are the important things which keep us grounded and can support with making space for other emotions than just anxiety. 

Remember that nerves are normal! The interview panel on the day will understand this can feel like a high-stakes situation and that you have put a lot of professional and personal time into getting this far in your career. Interviewers are only human and want you to do your best on the day. Focus on being yourself, sharing your story, and trusting in your preparation. You've got this!

Want more information about DClinPsy interviews? The BPS Division of Clinical Psychology Pre-Qualification Group is hosting an online DClinPsy Interviews Webinar on 10 March 2025, from 6pm - 8pm. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain further insights and advice as you navigate the interview process with a panel discussion with qualified clinical psychologists, Q&A section with newly-qualified and trainee psychologists, and reflective breakout rooms. Sign up is available now – don't miss out!

Author

Richard Malkin is currently in his second year as a trainee clinical psychologist at Teesside University and working in Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust. He also serves as co-chair of the BPS Division of Clinical Psychology Pre-Qualification Group.