We often see many people enrolled in a psychology major. However, they are quite unaware of the scope and where studying psychology leads them. In conversation with Ms Rojisha Shahi Thakuri, a psychologist from a healthy mind.

 

  1. How does one become a psychologist in Nepal?
  • In my case, my bachelor’s degree was in management and pursued my master’s in psychology. However, you can get your bachelor’s degree in BA, and then go for Psychology in master as well. Now if I am to talk about the scope of psychology, then it depends upon you and your personality to take psychology as your career to the height of your vision. Rather than chasing the ‘Job’ of a psychologist, I would suggest you choose what you are passionate about. If you have noticed, we don’t see the vacancy post for a psychologist, there are no legal issues, and you don’t even have to take a psychologist’s license. In Nepal, this profession is not taken as a serious and important one. There is a very high demand but has been always neglected by the Government. Just because you topped the university does not mean that you can be a psychologist. There are many factors that one must have to help someone come out of their dark situations. 
     
  1. Are there any types of Psychology to choose from for a master’s degree?
  • Yes, in Nepal, you can choose between two: Clinical psychology and counselling psychology. I chose clinical psychology so I can’t tell you about the counselling one. Clinical psychology is more based on testing, diagnosis, and dealing with patients. You can work in clinical settings. 
     
  1. What do you think about the future of psychology in Nepal?
  • Based on my experience, I can say that the future for psychologists or aspiring psychologists is good. However, if you are thinking that studying psychology will get you good money, and a good job position, then that intention does not work in this field. You have to have that solo motive to contribute and help the psychology arena to prosper. I think by far, it is growing and people are getting more open-minded. The future is pretty good as the demand is very high.
     
  1. Given that you are a psychologist, you are dealing with mental health patients and you are always in this atmosphere. People say that you become the person with whom you spend more time. Is it true?
  • Drawing a line between professional and personal life is important. I can do that. It does affect me for some time and as soon as I step out of this room, I try to let things go. If you are studying psychology and are emotionally hypersensitive then I would suggest you look for other branches of psychology like a researcher, professor, and many more. However, I have realized and experienced that, because I am always hearing negative things and dealing with the negative energy, sometimes it happens to get to me. But again, the ethics and principles come into play and everything gets okay.
     
  1. If a psychologist is going through some mental breakdowns or exhaustion, how does he/she deal with the patient?
  • Of course, that happens a lot. I suggest taking breaks and relaxing before getting back to work. If you are overwhelmed with your emotions, just limit the patients or don’t take them at all. This way, you can maintain balance. 
     
  1. What are the qualities that a psychologist must-have?
  • First of all, if you are trying or aspiring to be a psychologist, make sure that you have a stable life. by that, I mean, your family, your relationship, your mental state, everything has to have that stability. Secondly, try to gain as much experience in life. Until and unless you are not emotionally intelligent, you cannot understand what the other person is going through and become empathetic towards them. The patients that psychologist encounters come from a wide range regarding profession or even on a personal experience level. The Late 20s or thirties can be the right time if you have gained quite some experience. 
     
  1. What do you think is the best and least enjoyable part of being in this profession?
  • I think the best part is helping people. It makes you feel grateful and privileged. The least enjoyable part I would say is you are always surrounded by negativity and also it is very much of a routine. But I think because my personality complements the job, I thoroughly enjoy it. Being there for someone, who is not feeling their best or is vulnerable, feels like therapy.