Pina has been a psychologist at The Young Mind Clinic for nearly 3 years. She agreed to be our “guinea pig” interviewee!
- How did you know you wanted to become a psychologist?Who wouldn’t want to be a psychologist? I have the privilege of getting to know people from all walks of life and listening to their unique stories. Like many psychologists, I’ve always wanted to help others and found myself on this path after losing a childhood friend to suicide. This experience allowed me to focus on what I believe is important: self-acceptance and a positive mindset.
- What inspired you to work with young people?Working with young people allows me to connect with my playful nature and be creative in the therapy room. Watching children and adolescents develop and master skills to cope with life’s challenges is gratifying. Listening to and walking alongside parents in their journey is a humbling experience. I’m also a big believer of early intervention!
- What is your typical therapy mode and why do you find it to be so helpful?CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) is a big focus of my practice. I enjoy presenting concepts playfully, which can be more engaging for the child and myself! My whiteboard gets a real workout. I also incorporate components of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) when needed.
- We all feel stressed sometimes, including psychologists! What helps you to manage your own stress?What a great question! I have a few “go-tos” to help manage stress, including walking with friends, going to the gym, and Friday night pizza and movie night with my kids. Walking my fur baby and coffee are also high on the list.
- If you could have given your teenage self ay advice – what would you have said? Be kind to yourself; life isn’t a race; enjoy the moment, and we all make mistakes.