Monday, May 4, 2009

Decisions

I have basically chosen physical therapy. A few weeks ago, I thought that I had finally decided on psychology. I realized though that even though one night I had chosen pschology, the next day I was thinking physical therapy and vice versa.

The reason I have chosen physical therapy for now is because I don't think that I would be able to mentally and emotionally care for psychological patients. While I love the field, I believe that I would begin to internalize the patient's issues which would lead to burnout and maybe my own emotional problems. I mean, just sitting through my abnormal psych class this semester gave me stomach problems toward the end of each class...I don't know if it was just the time of day but I think it was more related to a nervous stomach.

I do realize that physical therapy does include a little psychology to be able to work with clients who are in pain physically as well as emotionally and I think that's a good thing! I won't totally give up the psychology part. But, for now I think that PT suits my personality better. Also, if I take the prerequisites for one semester and decide I don't like...then I'll just change. Bottom line is that I'm not boxed in. Of course I would LOVE to be 100% for sure...but I'm still giving myself other options as well.

So that's where I'm at! And I graduate in 5 days!!

2 comments:

Kristi Ostler said...

Yes, burnout is always a factor. You have to learn to draw a very distinct line between work and life, and train your mind to let go. And that's never fully achieved--especially in cases that tear out your heart.

With Psychology, results are slower. With PT, you get quicker results and are able to make a physical, measurable improvement in someone's life.

Either field has rewards.

Whatever you do, you will be awesome at! just remember that.

Jeff said...

Choosing (the first time) is MORE than half the battle. And, what's next? doesn't mean what's forever?