Informational Interview: PsychologyINTERVIEWEE: ELIZABETH GARZARELLI

INTERVIEWER: RACHEL GARZARELLI

Elizabeth specializes in working with…..

Individual adults experiencing trauma However, she also works with adults and

children experiencing…AnxietyDepressionRelationship problemsStruggles with beliefs

Typical Day

5-6 clients per day for one hour each Typically get paid at the end of each session 10 minute breaks in between During the session…

Ask lots of questionsHelp clients come to their own answersTake lots of notesPossibly use EMDR

Getting Started

EducationElizabeth: English undergrad, then

psychology in graduate schoolUsually a master’s degree is needed to work

in counseling

Typical pathGet master’s degreework for an

agencywork in private practice

Getting Started (continued)

During college, volunteer somewhere where you directly help people!Elizabeth worked at a homeless

shelter, and with Hmong refugeesFind a good clinical supervisor to be your

mentorYou WILL run into problems!

Necessary Traits/Skills

ListeningPatienceEmpathyCompassionCuriosity about peopleOrganization/documentationWilling to do paper work for insurance

Challenges and Rewards

Biggest Challenge:Dealing with insurance companies

Biggest Reward:Seeing people grow, become happier, achieve goals, and let go of negative thoughts of the past

Related Careers

Social worker

Researcher

Psychology professor

Marketer