Interview With High School Students Interested in Psychology
Several bright and thoughtful St. Charles High School students recently visited Plum Tree Psychology. As they finish their psychology courses, they wanted to learn more about what it’s like to work as a clinical psychologist. During their visit, they asked insightful questions about training, treatment, and mental health today.
Below are highlights from the conversation.
Experience and Areas of Expertise
How long have you worked as a clinical psychologist?
I have worked as a clinical psychologist for about 15 years.
What are your areas of expertise?
My work focuses on:
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IQ testing
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
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Suicidal behavior and self-injury
Treatment Style and Therapy Approaches
How would you describe your treatment style?
I would describe my approach as solution-focused, collaborative, evidence-based, and genuine. I aim to work with patients rather than direct them.
Which therapeutic strategies work best?
Different concerns require different approaches. For example:
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ADHD: Coaching strategies that improve organization, attention, time management, and prioritization
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Self-injury and suicide risk: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Child mental health concerns: Play therapy, behavioral parenting strategies, and cognitive-behavioral therapy
Happiness, Motivation, and Choosing Psychology
Do you think society overemphasizes happiness?
Not exactly. Instead, society often misunderstands how happiness actually develops. Teens, in particular, receive constant messages through social media that equate happiness with fame, wealth, or appearance. However, research does not show a direct link between those factors and lasting happiness.
What inspired you to become a psychologist?
I enjoy challenges. Human thoughts, feelings, and behaviors create one of the most complex sciences we study. Because of that, psychology continues to fascinate me.
Working With Children and Adolescents
Why did you choose to work with children and teens?
I have always connected easily with this age group. Children and adolescents are often misunderstood. Most importantly, I find it incredibly meaningful to help translate a child’s experience for parents, teachers, and other important adults.
How Treatment Decisions Are Made
How do you decide which approach fits a patient best?
I consider several factors, including:
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Patient or parent goals
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Treatment history
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Current symptoms
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Research evidence
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Clinical experience
By combining these elements, I can tailor treatment effectively.
What needs to happen for therapy to be successful?
For therapy to work, the patient must feel validated and supported to change. Both elements matter equally.
Measuring Progress in Therapy
How do you measure whether treatment is working?
Measurement varies from person to person. Each patient has a treatment plan with specific goals and timelines. In addition, I use periodic psychological screenings to track progress. Just as importantly, patient and parent feedback plays a critical role.
Diagnoses and Labels in Mental Health
Do diagnoses cause people to act differently?
A diagnosis is not a judgment it is a fact. Just as medical conditions rely on clear criteria and research, mental health diagnoses do as well.
Accurate diagnoses guide evidence-based treatment. They also allow professionals to communicate clearly with one another. For many patients, receiving a diagnosis brings relief. Finally having a name, treatment path, and community can be therapeutic in itself.
That said, stigma still exists. Because mental illness can make others uncomfortable, some individuals experience embarrassment or social exclusion. Therefore, continued public education remains essential.
Trends in Mental Health Diagnoses
What diagnoses are most common right now?
In pediatric populations, trends show increases in:
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Autism Spectrum Disorders
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Bipolar Disorder
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ADHD, which has risen steadily over the past decade
Is Therapy Helpful for Everyone?
Do you believe therapy is beneficial for those who need it?
Yes. When people have access to appropriate, evidence-based care, therapy can be helpful for anyone who needs support.
