I worked at the Mayo Clinic Health System for 11 Years.  My job responsibilities consisted of the following:  

  1. Doing therapy for individuals 16 and older.  I would use cognitive behavioral therapy   techniques to help them emotionally feel better.

  2. Doing weight loss surgery evaluations and helping patients get ready for the surgery.

  3. Seeing patients in their doctor visit to help in the moment and/schedule therapy.

I have been at Park Nicollet for almost 2 years. My job involves using cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness for adults struggling primarily with stress, anxiety, depression, and cancer.  I also work closely with psychiatry.

To be a psychologist, it involves going to graduate school to get a doctorate degree.  There is a 1-year internship included.  I went on to a 2-year fellowship to specialize in health psychology.

This can vary tremendously on the setting, organization, and location.  It can range from $50  to $80,000.

There is a definite need for psychologists as there is not enough of us with the amount of people struggling.  It is great working in a primary care setting (both Mayo Clinic Health System and Park Nicollet) because most people start there with their struggles and get a referral then to see a therapist in the system.

I enjoy being able to provide tools that can make a difference in a person's life.  It is so rewarding to see someone feel better after talking through their struggles and using the tools to feel better.

Take advantage of different training opportunities that are available in undergraduate and graduate school because it will help you in your career.  Also it can be helpful to reach out to ask questions about the different areas that psychologists work in because there are many.

Strive to be the best in your current role, network with others currently in the field and ask for advice on how to break into the industry. Always ask for the job during the interview!