Education The Foundation To Principles Of Personal Growth
Jared Scherz, Ph.D., has over 20 years of psychotherapy experience. His clientele is diverse and he works with individuals as well as couples and groups. Dr. Scherz expertise lies in Gestalt Therapy. This type of therapy involves a partnership between client and therapist. As a team, they explore and experiment to better understand the client's experience.
What continuing education is required for your role?
"As a psychologist in New Jersey, there is no requirement for continuing education. Other states, however, require varying amounts of continuing education such as Pennsylvania, which requires 30 CEU's. These can be earned in various ways, both online and through live workshops. Many psychologists earn their CEU's all at one time by going to a conference such as the annual APA convention (this year being held in Canada). "
Can you describe your duties as a psychologist?
"There are many different types of psychologists, including clinical, school, industrial/organizational, counseling, sports, etc. I can speak to the duties of a clinical psychologist in private practice, but know that duties can vary widely even within each of the types I just mentioned. Private practice means third-party billing or directly billing clients/patients for therapy. In this role, I evaluate (conduct testing for diagnostic purposes), consult with organizations, do psychotherapy, supervise other therapists/students, and ensure all the ethical and legal guidelines are being upheld by my staff."
How has education prepared you for your career in psychology and social sciences?
"The preparing on the bachelor, master's and doctoral level provided a range of knowledge, including theoretical orientation - the philosophy by which a therapist understand the change process and our role in supporting change - understanding of child/ adult development, ethics, pathology, and a range of other practical skills for being a psychologist. This differs from being a therapist or social worker in that there is a long history of psychology that addresses every aspect of personhood, not simply trying to help solve problems or situations. The education is simply a foundation to help apply the principles of people and personal growth like a canvas is to a painter."
What advice would you give someone who is pursuing a career in psychology?
"Get into therapy. Every psychologist, in particular those interested in being a clinician, need to understand themselves well. The greater depth of our own work allows us to see ourselves in relation to our clients more clearly. I would also encourage a person considering psychology as a career to try going a week without giving advice or suggestions. While therapy may seem like it's about guiding people with good ideas, deep therapy is very much about helping people determine what interferes with their own instinctive drive toward health. As psychologists, we want our clients to feel responsible for their successes, which can't happen if we are giving our solutions as if we would ever know what's best for somebody over themselves."
Christina Thompson is a freelance writer living in Philadelphia. She reports on various topics such as: Social Media, Local Events, Entertainment, Food and Drink and more. Her work can be found at http://firstsendmedia.com/
