Graduate interview: Dominik - Psychotherapist

What did you study at the University of Würzburg?

Psychology Bachelor and Master

What is your current job?

I am currently working as a psychotherapist on placement (PiP) as part of my training as a psychological psychotherapist in a psychiatric clinic. There, I treat patients with various mental illnesses under the supervision of senior physicians and psychotherapists.

Which company/employer do you work for?

I work at the medius KLINIKEN in Kirchheim/Teck near Stuttgart.

What are your tasks?

I am responsible for the entire treatment of a patient, from patient admission and diagnostics to treatment planning and implementation, including documentation, through to discharge and writing the discharge letter. This is done in close consultation with medical colleagues, complementary therapists and the social services. I also organise various psychoeducational groups.

How did you orientate yourself professionally during and after your studies?

As I had already completed an FSJ in a psychiatric residential home before my studies, I did an internship in the Professional Development department of a large company during my studies in order to gain an insight into the business sector. After graduating, I worked in vocational rehabilitation for a year and a half before deciding to start training as a psychotherapist.

Did you make use of any of the university's career guidance services (e.g. Career Centre, alumni office, mentoring programme, guest lectures, etc.)?

I really enjoyed going to the various guest lectures, lecture series and events, including those organised by other faculties. Through my student job at the Career Centre, I was also able to deal directly with the topic of professional orientation.

Which skills from your degree programme are helpful or essential for your current job?

A structured, analytical and critical way of thinking. An interest in people and the human psyche. Understanding of diagnostic tools. In principle, the ability to communicate complex issues and concepts well.

How did you acquire additional skills (e.g. workshops and seminars, internships, part-time job, associations, voluntary work, traineeships, further training, etc.)?

I started further training in systemic therapy during my Master's degree, which enabled me to acquire my first therapeutic skills. Since the beginning of my studies, I have tried to gain as many impressions as possible, for example during a semester abroad in Padova, through lectures in other subjects, holiday jobs and various events at the university.

Do you have any general tips for professional orientation and career planning?

In principle, any experience can be helpful, even if it is an experience that at first glance has nothing to do with your own "career path". So don't despair if a crisis like corona throws a spanner in the works - you can still develop as a person and perhaps find something even more suitable in the end.

What would you recommend to students who want to work in your industry or profession?

Gain life experience! Go through the world with an open mind and interest. Look at all the therapy schools and decide which one is right for you.