DSM-5, Let's be Friends!
I have already started on my way towards this goal, but I would like to continue to learn more about the diagnostic criteria for common psychological disorders. Of particular interest are depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive and related disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, and personality disorders.
The Desk Reference to the Diagnostic Criteria from DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013), and a handbook called Interview guide for Evaluating DSM-5 Psychiatric Disorders and the Mental Status Examination (Zimmerman, 2013), are proving to be valuable resources in my pursuit of this goal. I will feel I have achieved my goal when I can spot certain tell-tale signs of disorders when I am working with my clients, or conceptualizing their cases. |
Making it Official - Registering
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Shortly after graduation, I intend to register with the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association to be a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC). Secondly, I will prepare my application for the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (OACCPP).
Finding Employment
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After taking the summer off, I would like to pursue employment as a counsellor. Ideally, as a result of my rewarding practicum experience at the University of Waterloo, I would like to work in a post-secondary institution. Though I will likely need more experience to secure a job like that, I will prepare an application package for the colleges and universities close to my home in Southern Ontario. Some of the institutions I will target are: Sheridan College, Mohawk College, University of Toronto, University of Guelph and McMaster University.
A more realistic possibility is the idea of applying to Shepell FGI, a company that provides counselling through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). I understand that this is challenging work but that it is a good learning ground for new counsellors.
Perhaps one day, I will settle into my own small, private practice. You never know!
A more realistic possibility is the idea of applying to Shepell FGI, a company that provides counselling through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). I understand that this is challenging work but that it is a good learning ground for new counsellors.
Perhaps one day, I will settle into my own small, private practice. You never know!
Reconnecting with Family & Friends
After three years of focusing on my studies, it is time to re-connect with my dear family and friends who have loved me despite my neglect of them! I cannot express how grateful I am for their support - babysitting, calming my emotional storms, paying my tuition bills (thanks to my partner! xo), and always keeping faith that I could make it through this demanding and challenging program. I hope to raise a glass with my loved ones very soon!
References:
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Desk Reference to the Diagnostic Criteria from DSM-5. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
Zimmerman, Mark. (2013). Interview Guide for Evaluating DSM-5 Psychiatric Disorders and the Mental Status Examination. East Greenwich, VA: Psych Products Press.
Quote taken from: http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/goals
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Desk Reference to the Diagnostic Criteria from DSM-5. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
Zimmerman, Mark. (2013). Interview Guide for Evaluating DSM-5 Psychiatric Disorders and the Mental Status Examination. East Greenwich, VA: Psych Products Press.
Quote taken from: http://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/goals