Stephen Pinsent is a registered Psychologist from Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada.
How long have you been practicing?
I have been practicing since 1980, a total of 35 years.
Do you see clients from home or in a clinic?
I see clients in my own private office in a local office building.
What problems/issues do you treat most frequently?
Most of my work is with trauma. PTSD (Military Type) is most of my work, though I also see paramilitary clients and a few other civilian cases. [Stephen is a graduate of our Rewind Technique course].
What are your biggest frustrations running your practice?
I am somewhat fortunate that the biggest frustration is having to say no to so many referrals.
What do you find hardest about your daily work?
Do you find your professional body supportive and helpful? Do they help you create connections with fellow therapists?
My professional association is available whenever I need them. I have many connections with fellow therapists in my area. I also access significant amounts of professional development online.
How do you balance work and life? Stress management/avoiding burnout…
Exercise, especially running and walking, is pursued daily. I also engage in some sports in all seasons. I do not take work home and I spend time each day actively relaxing. I also enjoy activities around the home doing odd jobs. I have a good circle of funny friends.
What frustrates you most about the way mental health is dealt with in your country?
The insufficient numbers of practitioners and the lack of good quality experience are the most frustrating. There can be long waits for psychiatric attention as well.
Can you tell us about your most uplifting experience treating a recent client? (anonymously, of course!)
Seeing a client return to being able to drive a vehicle and engage in activities he formerly enjoyed after having been through a number of traumatic experiences was very uplifting. Fortunately, this has happened on a number of occasions.
Pictured above: Stephen’s therapy room.
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