In the Mind of a Man Who Peers Into Minds (Prompt #3)

Dr. Soulia is a Clinical Psychologist based out of Flushing MI. I reached out to him for a small interview on the nature of clinical psychology, as well as a few questions related to any writing he does in his field. I suppose before getting into it I should clarify what exactly a clinical psychologist does. The focus of a clinical psychologist is the assessment and treatment of a quite diverse assortment of disabilities, addictions, and mental illnesses. This branch of psychology is quite “hands on” often times leading the psychologist into hospitals and clinics.

Dr. Soulia works with a large spectrum of people, from couples, to adults, to adolescents. There is not a particular sway one way or the other. Aside from the ages, the length of time people stay in treatment varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the patient. Some may require treatment only one time where others could spend years visiting Dr. Soulia. The most stressful part of being a clinical psychologist is the variety of different problems that people may have. As well as the stress that comes from patients who are suicidal and in need of emergency help. It is important to keep in mind how crucial it is that people get the help that they need, often times problems are extremely serious and a psychologist should be seen.

As for the writings of a clinical psychologist, very little is done. Most of the time the only writing done is for files and insurance. When it comes to remembering patients and their problems, Dr. Soulia has no trouble. They are people and because he cares, he remembers. This also could encourage the patient to open up and feel less nervous. On the rare occasion when he does write down clinical notes, they are short and to the point.

It is crucial that a psychologist, much like any career, leaves work at work. Dr. Soulia doesn’t spend his days analyzing body language and tone of the people he comes in contact with. The questions of a psychologist are not canned, they are carefully thought out to encourage a patient to open up.

Finally Dr. Soulia left me with an important message to share with the world. “Psychology is a great field, there are many opportunities.” he said, “It is an important thing to study, even if you don’t have an intention of being a psychologist, because it comes into everyday life.

C.F.