Masters student — Lorna Harvey

After completing a counselling and psychotherapy degree, Lorna decided to study the MSc Psychology (Conversion) at Edge Hill University, which involves undertaking a series of work placements

Why did you decide to pursue a postgraduate course?

It was to gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful graduate career supporting children with a history of trauma.

Alongside the skills gained on the counselling and psychotherapy degree, I have responded effectively and compassionately to their needs from a psychotherapeutic approach, which relates to the treatments used to address mental and emotional problems.

This is in addition to understanding the biopsychosocial framework - understanding how biological, psychological, and social factors interact to cause health issues.

Tell us a bit about the course and what it involves.

My work experience, which ran alongside my studies, introduced me to different areas of specialism, which included:

• bereavement
• cancer care
• trauma.

It was one of these incredible placements with Key Unlocking Futures that changed the trajectory of my studies and led me to pursue a career supporting young people with a history of trauma.

During one of my work placement sessions, I heard a story from a young girl who was at risk of homelessness, which had such an impact on me and my career pathway. She shared the neglect and abuse she had endured at the hands of a family member and how she had lost all hope of ever recovering or having a meaningful life. I have since recognised the need for young people from backgrounds of trauma and neglect to feel in control of their life outcomes - a focus of most of my research.

I currently work as a senior psychotherapist at Wilderness Way, Penrith. This is one of the country's leading providers of residential care for children who have suffered trauma and exploitation and are in crisis. Our holistic, child-centered care offers children a safe space to develop the wellbeing, skills, and independence needed to achieve outstanding outcomes and move successfully into their futures.

What's a typical day like in your placement role?

It involves working one-to-one therapeutically with young people, and I also supervise a team of clinicians to ensure wrap-around care.

I support our clinical team, ensuring high-quality, evidence-based therapeutic care for vulnerable children. I also provide clinical supervision and support, helping our team grow professionally and deliver exceptional results.

The days are varied and are hugely dependent on our young people. We are all there to make a difference. Even the smallest of wins can mean the world to them.

What are the top three skills gained from your studies?

• Statistical analysis skills have enabled me to present meaningful data during clinical governance, and my proficiency in analysing such complex data has supported me in rolling out evidence-based programmes.
• Clinical and therapeutic skills have allowed me to assess young people in our care, ensuring that we work together as a multidisciplinary team to design unique psychotherapeutic programmes that meet each individual's needs.
• Critical thinking has empowered me hugely and informed my ethics, allowing me to question and challenge the status quo within my profession. This has focused on the medicalisation of distress within the demographic I support. I am a strong advocate for recognising mental health as brain health.

What tips would you give to others choosing a Masters degree?

For anyone considering studying at Edge Hill University, my advice would be to go for it. Remain open-minded and curious. Choose topics that ignite something in you - you'll need that focus and motivation to produce your best work.

Enjoy being a student. It is one of the most precious of life stages, and we're so privileged to have the opportunity to learn from academics at such a supportive university.

Edge Hill University has fostered in me a lifelong passion for learning. Once my career has advanced to the point where I can dedicate the time needed, I may pursue a psychology Doctorate.

Find out more

• Explore careers working with children.
• Read more about psychology conversion courses.
• Consider the MSc Psychology (Conversion) at Edge Hill.