CareerPhysician’s Post

I recently finished my hours for my LPCC track. A huge accomplishment for a clinical trainee. This is because in the state of Minnesota, it takes 4,000 hours in total of supervised clinical work to complete. This includes 1,800 hours of direct patient contact. One hour of time with a patient equals one hour of direct work that counts towards licensure. 200 hours of the 4,000 hours is for supervision, while the other 2,000 hours are for indirect work. That includes trainings, conferences, researching, documentation, ect... It's a lot of work and on average, a trainee might complete this in 2-3 years. For some, it might even be 5 years or more depending on the circumstances. For a long time I thought to myself, "It's a big deal when I get licensed. I'm going to feel so accomplished. As if I finished the big race. I'm going to so feel proud and happy for completing this big goal." Instead, I feel the opposite. I feel lost, angry, upset, anxious, and most of all, depressed. I almost wish I could go back in time and tell me, that little 7th grade girl who desperately wanted to be a therapist, to find another career path. The amount of trauma I experienced in my masters program and occupationally, it makes me wonder, "When will the exploitation end?" "When do things get better?" "Will I ever break my generational funancial trauma?" How can I feel accomplished, when I can't address the next mountain I have to climb? Passing the NCMHCE. Registration is $150 while the test itself is $400. How can I and other clinical trainees pay for this when most of us get paid $15/hour? This is a systemic issues that feels almost never ending. It's incredibly hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you're struggling to keep your head above water. We as therapists know too well. The worst part of this is that I'm not the only one. Clinical trainees are struggling and don't see much being done about it. It's not just clinical trainees. It's mental health providers are struggling and this is just one example. #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthprofessionals #communitymentalhealth #clinicaltrainee #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthservices #therapist

How to prepare doctors for career success and satisfaction

Thank you to Brittainy Lindsey for originally sharing this article. I'd like to focus on one point the writer makes in the article with regards to shrinking the behavioral health workforce shortage: "The second path is to focus on the estimated 57% of people with advanced behavioral degrees who never obtained licensure. Many would likely complete licensure with some assistance." The writer offers no details on what this "assistance" would look like, so I'll offer a few suggestions: 💡 Less post-graduate hours 💡 Paid practicums and internships 💡 Removal of a standardized exam not supportive of neurodiverse test takers 💡 Blocking licensure approvers from being needlessly nit-picky about graduate coursework ("We know the course title is 'developmental psychology,' but the syllabus doesn't say you learned about how a 1 year olds brain responds to changing food textures as they move to solid foods.") 💡 Ensuring quality supervision for the first couple of years of a new clinician's career 💡 Wage accountability for state-funded organizations And with 57% of people with advanced behavioral degrees who remain unlicensed, the solution is to train nurses to do the jobs the MHC's, MFT's, and MSW's spent nearly a decade studying for? Seems like the focus is on the easy way instead of the right way. #BehavioralHealth #MentalHealth #Healthcare #HealthcareReform #Policy https://lnkd.in/eJwKWT-P

Dear Clinical Research industry It is so sad that so many people prey on innocent fellows who have a keen interest in joining the industry to earn a good living. Unfortunately, other people who have lost their conscience see it as an opportunity to zap from this innocent individual who wants to learn more, change career, and have a better life. But some fellows took it upon themselves to to have a registered scammed company in a very savvy way that sounds so real and people fall for it and scam so many innocent people by charging scrupulous fees that they and their family members cannot afford. For example, @Clinicalresearchfastrack trains close to 20+ students each month for 82 hours, out of these 20+ students, only 1.0% get a job. This same training company promises to see students through in their job search and also they have an agreement that when the students whom they have trained, get a job in the research industry, that's when they are expected to pay back the $10,000, which makes sense because the industry pays well and people who get job placement will overtime pay the fees. But the reverse is what is happening. So many students who finished the program last year and years ago, are yet to get a job placement because the gatekeepers who don't like to give new entry the opportunity, block the way for those eager to work and familiarize themselves with everything that entails in the research industry. Why milk innocent people by having boot camps, charging ridiculous fees, and failing in all of the promises? Am only irritated that the financial institution that's in partnership with the so-called company keeps harassing people with emails about payment when they haven't even gotten the job, SMH. The most annoying thing happening now is that students signed an income-sharing agreement that “WHEN” they get a job in clinical research ohhhh😬 they should pay back the funds. Okay now, some are yet to get a job and are being tossed around with tons of emails from @StrideFunding asking for the payment with interest on the money. Please how does this make sense? The assigned coordinator or whatever it is they assigned to students to help them search for jobs is not even interested in assisting some of these students as they are interested in the $10,000. What has this life turned to? And some of these folks are Christians or otherwise but just a camouflage for real. Tbc….

Over the course of 45 years in practice, I have supervised graduate students in Social Work, BSW’s, undergraduates in Social Work, Primary Care physicians in training and practice, medical students, and allied health professionals. Each presents special needs and offers special gifts. Each can be fruitful or unrewarding to both of us in that we function in a highly interdependent manner. Since all of us learn in different ways and manners, are we flexible enough to shift and modify our supervisory skills to meet the learning styles of those who come to us for supervision? The unrewarding encounters in supervision may be due, in large part, to regimented and prescribed methods of supervision. We may fail others by over-intellectualized and highly verbalized methods that simply leave no room for learner self-awareness, insight, and growth to their potential.

Embarking on a new career in allied health is an exciting time filled with choices and opportunities, especially for emerging clinicians taking up their first professional roles. I recently shared asked the the Kids First team for their thoughts on the benefits of joining a multi-disciplinary team. Here’s some of the ideas they shared: 1. Learning: “In a multi-disciplinary team, you get to learn from experienced clinicians from various fields, not just the one you studied at uni. It's like starting your career with a gold mine of wisdom at your fingertips.” 2. Diverse Exposure “When you come out of uni, you’re prepared for some of what you’ll see in clinician practice, but that is very dependent on what placements you’ve had and what you’ve been allowed to do. Working in a multi-disc team gives a new graduate much more exposure to many different ways to help their clients. I’ve seen and learned more than I ever did at uni.” 3. Whole Child Perspective: “Being part of an MDT is like having an amazing toolkit in your pocket. Professionally and personally, it’s really rewarding to work with a multi-disciplinary team that allows me to provide holistic care to my clients.” 4. Supportive Environment: “In a team, you're not alone. It's like having your own cheer squad. Our team gives me so much guidance and support. I know they have my back and will help me through any challenges that come my way.” 5. Mentorship: “My mentors are like the wise owls in my forest. They've guided me through the early stages of my career, sharing their knowledge and experience. I can’t put a value on the things they have taught me.” 6. Communication Skills: “Working in a multi-disc team hones your ability to communicate effectively. It's given me the chance to learn the language of clinical collaboration, which I think is an essential skill in the therapy world.” What has working in a multi-disciplinary team added to your skill and knowledge? #multidisciplinary #newgraduates #therapy

This informative article by Brendan Murphy for #AMANewswire reveals why PGY2s (residents) are more susceptible to burnout than their interns. It's when greatly increased responsibility hits them, concomitant with the realization that the system is not wholly supportive. Understandably, this creates doubt as to whether this career path is one that they can thrive, or even survive in. Top stressors according to a recent AMA survey include: Lack of adequate physicians and support staff—24%. Too many administrative tasks—21%. No control over schedule—16%. EHR system is ineffective—14%. Educational stress—12%.

𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗯𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽! 🩺 Standing out isn't about flashy knowledge drops. Residency programs value reliable, team-oriented individuals who contribute consistently. Here's how to make a lasting impression (the right way!): 𝘽𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙢 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧. Show initiative, collaborate effectively, and be someone your colleagues can depend on. 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠 𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙘. Arrive on time, be prepared, and demonstrate a genuine desire to learn and contribute. 𝘼𝙨𝙠 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩��𝙤𝙣𝙨.❓ Curiosity is a sign of a lifelong learner, but avoid overwhelming attendings with basic questions. Dr. G's course can help you develop the right questions to ask! 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙚𝙮! Present yourself professionally, communicate clearly with patients and staff, and actively listen to feedback. 𝙂𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙧𝙖 𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚. ⭐️ Offer to help with administrative tasks, show genuine interest in your patients' well-being, and leave a positive impact. Dr. G's residency course offers the guidance and support you need to succeed in Internal Medicine. Ready to take the next step? ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gy8duCRV 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘰𝘯, 𝘋𝘳. 𝘎'𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘥. #InternalMedicine #ResidencyMatch #MedicalStudent #MedTwitter #USMLE #Clerkship #Observership #Teamwork #Professionalism #CommunicationSkills

Faculty Friday is a returning series recognizing a few of the many faculty members who make a positive impact on our student body. Meet Caleb Lewis: How many years have you been at MSSU and what classes do you teach? "In August, I will have been at MSSU for 14 years. My position is pretty unique in that, I don’t necessarily teach specific courses but I do assist faculty in implementing simulation education into their respective course curriculum. Whether that’s for the nursing department, the allied health programs, or any program on campus that wants to use simulation as a means to educate our students." What inspired you to go into this profession? "My inspiration to transition from a practicing respiratory therapist from a local hospital to simulation education at the university level, stemmed from a profound desire to enhance the training and preparedness of future healthcare professionals. I was motivated by the potential to create immersive, real-world learning experiences for students that bridge the gap between theory and practice. The ability to shape curricula and mentor students in a controlled, yet realistic environment solidified my commitment to this educational path." What has been your favorite teaching moment during your time at MSSU? "My favorite teaching moments involve creating realistic patient scenarios that challenge students to apply their knowledge in practical, high-stakes settings. Watching them navigate these complex situations and witnessing the "aha" moments when difficult concepts finally click is incredibly rewarding. These experiences not only enhance their clinical skills but also build their confidence and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for real-world medical challenges." What career advice would you give to your students? "My career advice for students is to embrace a mindset of lifelong learning, always seeking to expand your knowledge and skills. Challenge yourself by stepping out of your comfort zone and tackling new, difficult tasks that foster growth and resilience. Stay open to new opportunities and experiences, as they often lead to unexpected and rewarding career paths." What would students be surprised to learn about you? "The easy answer to this question is most students probably don’t know that I have an identical twin brother, but there are some that do. The other answer would be that I have completed a triathlon. This would be surprising because my current level of fitness would strongly contradict this! Haha!"

This picture was taken before my very first clinical hour, at the start of practicum. I had attached a little card at the top of my clipboard reminding myself to "SLOW DOWN!! Empathise... make them feel heard." 6 months on, I look back at this with some fondness and amusement. While I could talk about my journey in terms of practical skills sharpened and theoretical knowledge gained, I would like to instead share my experience from the lens of a fledgling practitioner. Prior to this, I thought I had a decent understanding of pain and suffering. I knew that life was difficult for many, and that struggles were part and parcel of existence. But being with my clients, all diverse individuals each occupied with myriad and unique problems, helped me to realise what it truly meant to sit with someone’s pain. While our differences are apparent at first glance, we are all united by our preference for happy experiences and our difficulties in dealing with the bad stuff. Being a witness to the private pain of others has reinforced an understanding within me that we are more alike than we are dissimilar. The faces and stories may be different, but the overarching theme is the same - "Life is difficult. Can you help?" And that's a scary question. Sometimes sessions are highly productive and you know you've made an impact. Other times you leave feeling confused and worried, unsure if you're making a difference. It's also a curious feeling - knowing that for an unknown amount of time, you'll travel with this stranger towards some imagined destination. And when the time comes, you'll unhitch your wagon from this person who's grown to be very vulnerable with you, who has granted you access to their innermost world. There's a bittersweet, almost poetic quality in knowing that if we do the good work, clients won't need us anymore. We learn to let them go, almost certain to never meet again. I find myself developing a reverence for the therapeutic hour, and a deep compassion for anyone who is willing to step in and bare their soul to a complete stranger in the hopes of being heard. This multifaceted, complex, chaotic, but ultimately beautiful symphony of life – two gardeners working together to build some hope and goodness in the roots and mud of pain. Perhaps Irvin Yalom puts it best: "When I turn to others with the knowledge that we are all (therapist and patient alike) burdened with painful secrets—guilt for acts committed, shame for actions not taken, yearnings to be loved and cherished, deep vulnerabilities, insecurities, and fears—I draw closer to them. Being a cradler of secrets has, as the years have passed, made me gentler and more accepting. When I encounter individuals inflated with vanity or self-importance, or distracted by any of a myriad of consuming passions, I intuit the pain of their underlying secrets and feel not judgment but compassion and, above all, connectedness." #counselling #therapy #mentalhealth