Exploring Clinical Psychologists’ Experiences of Their Work: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Introduction: The wellbeing of those working in the NHS is of increasing concern. Clinical Psychologists occupy a significant role in services and have a unique, multi-layered role. There is a limited understanding of the lived experiences of those working in this role in existing literature. The current study aimed to provide an in-depth exploration of the experiences of Clinical Psychologist’s work, with consideration to both the challenges and positives of the many aspects of this work.
Method: Eight qualified Clinical Psychologists working in the NHS were recruited and took part in semi-structured interviews. The resulting interview transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.
Results: Four interrelated superordinate theme emerged, each with several subordinate themes. These highlighted the significance of relational aspects of work for the participants (theme one: relationships are “key”). Areas of challenge also emerged from the participants’ accounts, such as their experience of organisational barriers (theme two: barriers and blocks- “up against it”). A further theme emerged around the ways participants were affected individually by aspects of their work (theme three: impacts of the work). The final theme related to factors which appeared related to helping participants cope with the challenges of their role and motivate them in their work (theme four: coping and sustaining factors).
Discussion: The findings are discussed in relation to existing literature and psychological theory around workplace wellbeing, resilience, and the challenges and rewards of working in roles such as Clinical Psychology. These findings are considered in context of the limitations of the study, including potential methodological weaknesses. Key implications for practice are then discussed.