The Pros & Cons of Being a Therapist | Kati Morton

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 15 чер 2024
  • I'm Kati Morton, a licensed therapist making Mental Health videos!
    #katimorton #therapist #therapy
    MY BOOKS (in stores now)
    Traumatized geni.us/Bfak0j
    Are u ok? bit.ly/2s0mULy
    ONLINE THERAPY
    While I do not currently offer online therapy, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed, online therapist, please visit: betterhelp.com/kati
    Join this channel to get access to perks:
    / @katimorton
    PATREON www.katimorton.com/kati-morto...
    YOU CAN SUPPORT THE CHANNEL BY SHOPPING WITH OUR AFFILIATE LINKS
    Instacart: www.instacart.oloiyb.net/y2j2GB
    Amazon: www.amazon.com/shop/katimorton
    PARTNERSHIP
    Linnea Toney linnea@underscoretalent.com
    PLEASE READ
    If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call a local emergency telephone number or go immediately to the nearest emergency room.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 612

  • @ruslana2720
    @ruslana2720 6 років тому +1241

    As a psychology student, i really got emotional when you said that the job is so fulfilling

    • @terseandtiny1746
      @terseandtiny1746 5 років тому +52

      It really is. Especially when your clients are in a great place and ready to terminate.

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому +50

      I am a licensed mental health therapist as well, and seriously, I wound't change my career for anything 💜

    • @brooklynwinchester5373
      @brooklynwinchester5373 5 років тому +15

      when she was stating the pros i was smiling the whole time and my eyes started to water. this made video made a big impact on if i really do wanna look into becoming a therapist.

    • @suchasasong
      @suchasasong 5 років тому +19

      I'm almost done with my master clinical psychology and I sooo agree ! I just can't wait to get started :)

    • @stanleyshady9465
      @stanleyshady9465 4 роки тому

      Education is a lie.. don't get brainwashed

  • @PurpleLemurs
    @PurpleLemurs 6 років тому +925

    With my depression, I struggle to find meaning in my life. No other job brings light to my eyes but thinking about being a therapist. To be honest, I'm not in a good place right now. I don't take care of myself and I feel empty a lot. But thinking about helping others is one of the only things that makes me want to better myself. I know I've worried about the money in the past, but honestly, it's my calling. There is no other job in this world for me.

    • @itsshevyb
      @itsshevyb 6 років тому +148

      You really really need to work on your self first, you won't be an effective counselor otherwise

    • @internallyscreaming90
      @internallyscreaming90 5 років тому +64

      idk I’m right there with you (even though your post was 8 months ago). I’m struggling mentally with anxiety and depression but man, every time I’m in a job that feels unfulfilling or like I’m wasting my time, I go back to thinking of working in mental health and it excites me. And I don’t get that kind of excitement from hardly anything. Best of luck to you 💕

    • @laries9648
      @laries9648 5 років тому +37

      I feel the exact same as you. I enjoy biology/chemistry, but nothing interests me more than the human mind. Nothing makes me feel like I am living my calling like helping others out emotionally. You will get better with time and the resources we have available to help us get there 😉 I was in your shoes(still kind of am) but I have to pay it forward because I know I’ve been helped so much with support from my family & professionals. Counseling has really made a difference in my life so that I can be the difference in someone else’s life. 💚

    • @MylisaC99
      @MylisaC99 5 років тому +8

      I'm on the exact same page man 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

    • @darmy713
      @darmy713 5 років тому +22

      idk might want to sort yourself out before you help others...

  • @cherielovemakeup
    @cherielovemakeup 6 років тому +500

    Don't let the money part stop you from being a masters level therapist. Yes, when you start out you will not be making much money. But once you get licensed, you can make a pretty penny doing private practice or working for managed care. You have to work hard, but you can live pretty comfortably. Good luck!

  • @melissaelvirakastlandersen8746
    @melissaelvirakastlandersen8746 8 років тому +684

    The cons didn't even sound like cons at all.

    • @bikinibottombadboys5147
      @bikinibottombadboys5147 6 років тому +37

      Melissa Elvira Cardenas then that's good 👌

    • @numnum8357
      @numnum8357 6 років тому +42

      Melissa Elvira Cardenas it's because she loves her Job.

    • @shalomoyawe9800
      @shalomoyawe9800 5 років тому +4

      Exactly

    • @superfunone926
      @superfunone926 5 років тому +37

      Honestly the we don't get paid much one made me think. The main part of this is money so yeah

    • @maribel5478
      @maribel5478 5 років тому +8

      well you get a medium salary range.@@superfunone926

  • @lahdeedah3584
    @lahdeedah3584 8 років тому +373

    One of my teachers once said, find something that you love to do and you'll never have to work a day in your life. Thank you so much for this video! I am a psychology major and this was helpful!

    • @pyrofreezer
      @pyrofreezer 5 років тому +7

      @Shadow the Hedgehog I wish it doesn't come to that , else I'll be struggling just like how I am right now , I wished to be a teacher but teachers are not paid high enough making me lost in what I want to do in my career again

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому

      I totally agree. I recently had someone tell me 1. Find something you love to do 2. Something that you are good at. 3. Something people will spend money on 4. Something the world needs. 💜

    • @JasonGafar
      @JasonGafar 4 роки тому

      Lol, so did Confucius....2000 years ago.

    • @schmetd6081
      @schmetd6081 4 роки тому +1

      @Shadow the Hedgehog i suppose you could get a part-time job

    • @sophiasophista6609
      @sophiasophista6609 4 роки тому +3

      @Shadow the Hedgehog profit corrupts intrinsic motivation IMAO. If you have to do too much of a thing- to earn enough money-, even if you love it, you will end up not loving it the same way as when you started to do that thing.

  • @kujmous
    @kujmous 8 років тому +226

    Caretaker burnout is so real. If you have needs that are not being met while in the process of helping others with their own, resentment and bitterness take hold. Soon after, if unchecked, we start to envy the joy of others as if our ability for gratitude is broken.

    • @Katimorton
      @Katimorton  8 років тому +18

      I couldn't agree more!! I actually talked about that issue a bit in this video too!! xoxo ua-cam.com/video/W8DBZgAROpM/v-deo.html

    • @mavisysmith7518
      @mavisysmith7518 5 років тому +5

      Omg this is such an amazing comment 😱

    • @junskey
      @junskey 3 роки тому +3

      great point

  • @heathercameron1485
    @heathercameron1485 6 років тому +142

    I think sometimes (particularly in the West) we put a little too much emphasis on the often unattainable "dream job." We all strive to find that perfect job that we're really good at and that we're really happy with, but the truth is there is no such thing as the perfect job. There will always be pros and cons to every single job. There will always be things you don't like whether it's the hours, a collegue, the commute everyday, the stress etc. There will always be something that you're not going to like, but as long as the positives outweigh everything else, then you're job is great. Don't strive for the perfect job, strive for the job that keeps you mostly happy, even if you do get the odd bad day in there.

    • @rosebudd5724
      @rosebudd5724 6 років тому

      Heather Cameron, very good point.

    • @eliciagarcia3601
      @eliciagarcia3601 4 роки тому +7

      I was thinking the same thing. I am 24 and between high school and through out my early twenties I had very high anxiety about “what am I doing with my life” cause our culture can make it seem like the work we do in this economy is our identity and that you are suppose to find a job that is perfect for you. It can feel like a lot of weird pressure when none of us even know what we’re doing or what the point of life even is. My aunt is a great person and she chose her career just by going to a random university and standing in the shortest line up. It was a line up for the technologist program, so she was just like “guess I’m becoming a technologist” and it’s worked out great for her. I don’t know how healthy it is to think you need to achieve grandiose goals or status in order to feel ok with yourself or even think you need the “right” job to feel ok with yourself. I’m not a know it all and would never tell anyone what to do or how to think. Just in my experience I think it’s healthy to give yourself a break from the anxiety of thinking you need to know everything and know what to do or impress people.

    • @Lovelyroses11
      @Lovelyroses11 3 роки тому

      @@eliciagarcia3601 yeah, I’m junior in high school I know my area of interest, but I don’t know what exact career I want to do. I am kinda worried I won’t find a career that’s right for me in the future and be stuck in a job I don’t like for a long time. Maybe we shouldn’t have our careers as our only identities and maybe eventually I would find a career that I love.

  • @OkKo-eu1jr
    @OkKo-eu1jr 4 роки тому +64

    I suffered from depression, ptsd, and anxiety so I would love to be a therapist bc I understand were some people are coming from

    • @jennyannhelms
      @jennyannhelms 4 роки тому +20

      Sometimes "wounded healers" (those who have gone through their own healing journey) make the best therapists :)

    • @thatwasthedaythatwas
      @thatwasthedaythatwas 3 роки тому +2

      Your experience may cloud your sessions and make it difficult to empathise. You do not want to unintentionally coerce the client with your particular experience

  • @serratedcreature890
    @serratedcreature890 4 роки тому +61

    >$85/hr
    >"We don't make much money!"
    I'd be more than happy with $85/hr.

    • @MOTIONSOLDIERR
      @MOTIONSOLDIERR 3 роки тому +7

      She also mentioned starting @$14 an hour; then $24 an hour. Sounds like she had to work her way up.

    • @ThisIsKassia
      @ThisIsKassia 3 роки тому +2

      I think this depends on the country. In Canada, independent psychologists charge a standard $200/hr, and even looking at typical hospital jobs, it's like, 80k+ a year for entry level jobs. Those are with a PhD typically though.

    • @4everu984
      @4everu984 3 роки тому +6

      Private practice we pay our own health insurance, practice insurance, rent and bills on space. Please consider!

    • @ilianaleanio4186
      @ilianaleanio4186 3 роки тому

      @@ThisIsKassia hi do you know how much a masters degree makes?

    • @Apaxetic
      @Apaxetic 2 роки тому

      @@4everu984 would it be possible to have a space in your home for therapy? I would think it's unsafe maybe, too private but it would be more cost efficient yk just wondering

  • @anwarajaj6333
    @anwarajaj6333 8 років тому +197

    Follow your passion! This is the most important key to succeed in any career you choose. Making money is important, but being happy about what you do is more important. I didn't follow my passion, but now I'm trying to find way to get back to it no matter how long it will takes me.

    • @milamaus6673
      @milamaus6673 8 років тому +3

      I like the way you think :) Don't give up your dream!

    • @cherst1031
      @cherst1031 8 років тому +20

      I agree. I went back to grad school to be a social worker at age 50 - and I have been thankful for it every day since. I love my career and it has enhanced my life in many ways.

    • @rachelyy
      @rachelyy 8 років тому +5

      Go you! I'm so happy to hear that, age is no reason not to pursue your aspirations :)

    • @LoryRus
      @LoryRus 8 років тому +5

      Amen to that! I've just finished my first year of med school, already being a graduate of economics (not my cup of tea).

    • @demcr08
      @demcr08 7 років тому +3

      Anwar A. I agree. No matter how high the honor or the cash if it's not making you happy you just feel empty.

  • @jivnnie-3663
    @jivnnie-3663 3 роки тому +17

    When I’m older my dream job is to be a therapist, to help people and talk to them :)

  • @orbanmarti2602
    @orbanmarti2602 5 років тому +29

    As a psychology student I have lost my faith in doing this, to learn, to write to do because sometimes I feel like I do this and nothing will happen after I finish Uni. I'm very happy that I have found your video and you gave me faith. You made my day ❤

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому +6

      Keep going sweet lady! You've got this! There are SO many jobs out there for a variety of people!

  • @MalloryMileham
    @MalloryMileham 8 років тому +175

    Wow this video was so helpful. I just graduated in December with my BA in Psychology and have been trying to decide how I want to use it. I really want to go on to get my Masters degree. Hearing you say how rewarding your job is and how you feel like you've really made a difference inspires me!

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому +7

      Congratulations! What a huge accomplishment! I am a licensed therapist as well and seriously, wouldn't change it for the world! Let me know if you have any questions. My bachelors is in social work and my master's is in social work too. I work as a mental health therapist now :)

    • @shalomoyawe9800
      @shalomoyawe9800 5 років тому

      Do you need a master

    • @brandyoneal741
      @brandyoneal741 4 роки тому

      To be a LMFT how do you get the 2 years intern experience necessary to be lisensed?

    • @bunnlabunn4646
      @bunnlabunn4646 4 роки тому

      Brittany Schank Hi Brittany! Do you know if you need a Doctorates to do private practice?

    • @tiffany25622
      @tiffany25622 2 роки тому

      Did you end up getting your Masters?

  • @ncjcjdbsj
    @ncjcjdbsj 5 років тому +19

    i have anxiety/depression, but recently i've been very interested in learning more about mental illnesses more serious than mine like sociopathy and psychopathy or even a children's therapist, knowing i could help people the way my therapist helped me.

  • @DepressionTalks1
    @DepressionTalks1 5 років тому +13

    This is why I want to get into the psychology field. I believe I'll feel more fulfilled by helping others.

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому +3

      I'm a licensed mental health therapist as well, and I feel like it's just kind of in us to help others. It's an amazing feeling to go to work every day and truly do what I love, helping and listening to others.

  • @jaxonkeeler817
    @jaxonkeeler817 Рік тому +1

    4 years later & you're still touching hearts with this video! So beautiful, thanks so much for sharing!

  • @anibe4450
    @anibe4450 8 років тому +5

    Love you Kati, thanks for always being kind and super passionate about your community.x

  • @piama18
    @piama18 3 роки тому +5

    As a student starting the second week in my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program so excited to hear this and really puts words to what I have been thinking ... I’ve always said “I want to help
    People.” And did not realize just how much of a difference this makes in mental health even though I have been helped greatly in the counseling session, and I guess I just really want this for others!!

  • @user-rf5py8ye3h
    @user-rf5py8ye3h 4 місяці тому

    Short, Sweet, Straight to the point, and Well-explained. Thanks for this video!

  • @aquamarine0023
    @aquamarine0023 6 років тому

    The feeling of helping people is what I was hoping for - thank you for this

  • @mayarainpersonal
    @mayarainpersonal 8 років тому +45

    I'm currently entering my final year of grad school for art therapy and I will be an LPC when I graduate as well. One of the biggest cons for me is that it's recommended to get rid of all social media in order to stay very private, both for your own safety and to limit self-disclosure that clients have access to which may skew their perceptions of you.
    Kati I would love to hear your thoughts on the need for privacy and professionalism since you seem so incredibly present on social media and open with self-disclosure.

    • @samanthamorris427
      @samanthamorris427 4 роки тому +2

      Maya Rain hi 👋 I was wonder if you could tell me about art therapy I’m not sure what I want to do after school and I’ve looked into art therapy

    • @robertnewman4105
      @robertnewman4105 4 роки тому +7

      Your work setting may have their own policies. But as an LPC myself, I would suggest certainly have your privacy settings set pretty high. Most clients are not going to care enough to bother looking you up on social media. But there's always going to be a few that will dig for every detail they can get. So it's basic risk management.

    • @roseb9819
      @roseb9819 3 роки тому

      Can I ask what school and program you went to im intrested in art therapy as well?

    • @pierre0227
      @pierre0227 2 роки тому

      Thats true. My therapist got mad when I looked him up on Instagram. He even has a tik tok.

  • @ciwanski
    @ciwanski 7 років тому +1

    Thank you Kati. I recently started therapy. And your videos have been a nice breath of fresh air, in understanding the inner workings of therapy.

  • @trojanette8345
    @trojanette8345 5 років тому +1

    Pros and Cons aside.......what a beautiful outlook on life!! Thanks for sharing your outlook on life. I wish everyone could have the same sense of understanding for their purpose in life.

  • @Monjanlol
    @Monjanlol 8 років тому +2

    Been watching your videos for 3 years now, big thanks from sweden! :)

  • @clearreflections516
    @clearreflections516 8 років тому +7

    Great video; 100% agree. It's the most rewarding area to work in. I am a psychotherapist in the UK also doing UA-cam videos to widen knowledge of mental health. Your definitely an inspiration

  • @busisiwenyeka4471
    @busisiwenyeka4471 5 років тому

    I appreciate you sharing this video. You sound and look genuine and that compliments the message being shared.

  • @richsmith4363
    @richsmith4363 11 місяців тому +1

    I was a therapist for almost 40 years. I loved my job up to the point that I went into clinic management.

  • @PinkRainProductions
    @PinkRainProductions 8 років тому +1

    Thank you, Love. This is very honest & real. I am a DSP/Mental Health Tech currently as I finish out my schooling for psychiatry, and you're right about how important it is to take care of ourselves as well. There are never-ending challenges, but infinite rewards to this career journey ❤️ Thanks for another great vid, sorry I was late in the game to commenting this time!

  • @tompalmer5986
    @tompalmer5986 8 років тому +72

    Kati, your dedication and commitment are inspiring.

    • @Katimorton
      @Katimorton  8 років тому +12

      Awe thanks for the kind words Tom :) xoxo

  • @user-tv4sd9mv4l
    @user-tv4sd9mv4l 4 роки тому

    Thank you so much for making these videos I'm going into the same path as you and am struggling with myself because of school stress, but your videos make everything clear. Seriously you give me more information than my college advisors.

  • @alisapuskala1437
    @alisapuskala1437 Рік тому

    very clear communication and helpful. Thanks!

  • @Jennaglynna
    @Jennaglynna 6 років тому +1

    Thank you so much for talking about this! I just started grad school and I'm terrified about what is next. This helped a lot!

  • @guera1206
    @guera1206 7 років тому +32

    I am in grad school now pursuing my MSW. This helped me tremendously and helped me remember why I'm doing what I'm doing.

    • @BrittanySchank
      @BrittanySchank 5 років тому

      Good for you! In my MSW program we did a TON of work on who we were as people and what made us this way. It was SO helpful going into my current position as a mental health therapist. Good luck girl!

  • @inutonmidgetsv2296
    @inutonmidgetsv2296 5 років тому +1

    so i’m 14 years old and i didnt really know what i wanted to do until i went to counseling myself and then i realized that i really want to do that as a job , i’ve been looking into the career for the future so that’s for being realistic for me especially for the start of your career

  • @king-nick2023
    @king-nick2023 8 років тому +167

    I'm going to school to become a marriage and family therapist.I'm excited about the journey.

    • @aalexisi
      @aalexisi 8 років тому +3

      Hey me too! I start this Fall, what about you?

    • @arianam296
      @arianam296 8 років тому +4

      I am also in school to be an MFT, anyone studying or planning to study through Northcentral University?

    • @king-nick2023
      @king-nick2023 8 років тому +1

      +Arianna Iliff yeah I start this fall also here in California

    • @aalexisi
      @aalexisi 8 років тому +1

      Haha, glad to know I'm not the only future MFT watching :)

    • @king-nick2023
      @king-nick2023 8 років тому

      +Ariana M (Ari) I'm going to transfer to sac state

  • @sheilapilcher7129
    @sheilapilcher7129 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you. What you say helps a lot.

  • @missmagicfairy2
    @missmagicfairy2 6 років тому

    I needed to see and hear this. Im about to start training to become a counsellor along side my many years of different personal experiences combined. This was confirmation for me that im on the right track and I can help others and do something that is meaningful and gives others their lives back. Thank you!

  • @artrayus
    @artrayus 8 років тому +1

    Thank you for your honesty. I'm going to start a MSSW program in a couple weeks and I'm very excited.

  • @iHabika
    @iHabika 8 років тому +3

    I am a recent masters graduate with my PLMSW that is going to begin working in the corrections field doing behavioral health therapy. I also did my graduate internship in the same setting but at another correctional facility. It's such a rewarding field and I absolutely love it.

  • @rebuttler4458
    @rebuttler4458 8 років тому

    Great channel, just found it today. As an undergrad psychology student it's really exciting to hear the nitty gritty about what it's like to practice (hasn't scared me off yet!). thanks for sharing - cheers.

  • @purrlyna
    @purrlyna 5 років тому +1

    I love to help people so much. Thank u for this video , it's so important to me. I either wanna be a social worker or a therapist.

  • @eemiaa10
    @eemiaa10 8 років тому

    I really appreciated this video because I'm a psychology major and am contemplating being a therapist. But I also, realize it's important to put my mental health first and foremost. Love ya Kati! Have a lovely weekend. :)

  • @IsabelSmith31
    @IsabelSmith31 5 років тому

    this is really good! So real! And detailed! Thank you!

  • @tahlleibovitz3187
    @tahlleibovitz3187 4 роки тому

    Such a good point. Need to be OK with self before we can assist others.

  • @tracybut2816
    @tracybut2816 5 років тому

    kati, thank you very much! i love all the videos you made. it helps me to understand a lot about the information i need to deal with myself and my kid.
    you are truly amazing that even you don't make as much as you deserve, yet you still give as much as you can to help out the patients. by the way, sometimes i feel like they are under-paid for all the work as the professional. to go through with patient could be very stressful too.
    i am not a therapist, yet i am a mother which needs more counseling skills to myself and my kid.

  • @LikeKristen
    @LikeKristen 8 років тому +77

    Hey Kati! It was so nice meeting you at Vidcon! You were so lovely and it's so great to have a positive voice speaking about MH! I have a question for you but I'm not sure where to put it so I'll just put it here!
    You said in this video that you have to have your mental illness under control before you become a therapist but do you have to have it under control when going to school to become a therapist? I find it rewarding to be a psychology major and learning why we do things the way we do but sometimes I find the content triggering. So my general question is: how can we separate our personal life and academic life when studying mental health topics? Thanks a million! 😊

    • @brianamiller4148
      @brianamiller4148 8 років тому +3

      I want to know this too!! I always thought everything would be under control by the time I started school but that is evidently not the case and it only got worse...so I have been questioning studying psych and going the direction I was planning to go.

    • @arianam296
      @arianam296 8 років тому +14

      I know I am not Kati, but I am currently a grad student working to be an MFT (what Kati is), and I suffer with a slew of my own mental illnesses. I think that of course it is best to be as healthy as possible mentally when completing your studies, but while you are studying it is also a great time to work on yourself and get towards being healthier. I am waiting until the absolute last starting time possible to start my clinical work (internship) because I want to take this time to be working on myself and to be learning all I can. My therapist reminded me the other day that all therapists, and all people, for that matter, have their own shit. whether it be physical or mental health issues, family problems, relationship struggles etc. The only thing that matters is that they are taking care of themselves the best that they can and that they can compartmentalize and remember that their shit cannot get mushed up with their clients shit and that they must be prepared to handle anything (so like having triggers is something that I know I need to work on, because there are some topics that if someone told me about, I would not be able to compartmentalize right now). I hope some of this was helpful. I encourage you to do your own reflection and see if getting a higher education is something you want to pursue along with constantly pursuing working on yourself.
      Also remember that undergraduate education- getting your bachelor's in America, is only the first step in becoming a therapist. While in undergrad, you can study anything you'd like, no matter what mental health issues you may be struggling with. You may have to do an internship, but they are usually pretty low-key and you will not be doing individual therapy with clients. Before working with clients, like I will be doing, starting clinical work in March (ahh!) that is when you really want to make sure you have worked through as much as possible of your own stuff. If psychology is your passion, don't let your mental illness stand in your way!

    • @nosuchthingasnormal9771
      @nosuchthingasnormal9771 8 років тому +2

      this also would help a lot, as I want to become a specific type of arts therapist majoring in drama, and within the next year I will be off to uni which is scary due to still being mentally ill myself, it's my dream to study in this field though, hope you can help kati! xoxox

    • @brianamiller4148
      @brianamiller4148 8 років тому +1

      +Ariana M (Ari) Thank you so much!! You've definitely helped a lot :)

    • @sylviasattar3445
      @sylviasattar3445 6 років тому

      LikeKristen i like your vids

  • @grilledbycheese
    @grilledbycheese 8 років тому

    this was so helpful, thanks for making this video!!

  • @flute9354
    @flute9354 4 роки тому

    I usually never comment on any videos but I just want to thank you for this wonderful video firstly for going straight to the point and secondly for being honest and clear!!
    (And I want to become a therapist now)

  • @kimbare7434
    @kimbare7434 6 років тому

    Hi Kati,
    Thank for these videos. They have helped in my studies and life in general.
    Blessings

  • @mattw1830
    @mattw1830 6 років тому

    awesome Kati - thank you for sharing!! Waiting to hear back from grad school as i recently applied to clinical mental health counseling program - being in recovery for 5 years, I want to focus on substance use disorders and help curtail some of the pain and loss from the opioid epidemic. I just found some of your videos and they are awesome!! Keep doing what you're doing - one day at a time!

  • @mythirdchannel
    @mythirdchannel 8 років тому +57

    I'm a Psychologist, I'm working as an Educational Psychologist (though I was trained in Neuropsychology originally) ... and I actually quite often find myself mauling over the pros & cons of our profession. When people ask me if they should go study Psychology I feel like I have a lot of underlining to do about the cons ... but a big part of that is due to what it takes to become a licensed psychologist in my country.
    My first degree (BA) was a 3 years degree, and of course - you can't practice with it, it's just the first in a long list of hurdles you have to pass along the way.
    While you do your BA, it's "recommended" (and by that I mean it's not an official requirement but if you're not gonna do it you're going to have a harder time continuing down this path) that you volunteer at a mental health organisation of sorts & as a research assistant (because academics!). So sure, my time volunteering was very meaningful to me, and it helped me outline what are some of the things I'd be more interested in, and some of the things I wouldn't want to deal with on a daily basis, but you know - if you're trying to support yourself financially, and you have to volunteer, that's just not something you can do without any support (not to sound too much like I'm complaining about my own life choices, but there are too many "unspoken" obligations in this path in my country).
    In order to apply for an MBA, which is a must if you want to actually practice as a therapist and be a licensed psychologist - well, first you have to complete a 5 hour test that's kind of like the SATs or GREs or your regional equivalent, but has to do with statistics and research methods (and while I agree it's good to be well versed in the latest research in my field, knowing statistics does not a better therapist make ;)). I know people who had to repeat this test several times, it's very stressful, and since the results are relative - you're basically "competing" with a lot of very talented and smart individuals for a very limited spot.
    Why limited? because every year in an average university here 300+ people finish their BA in psychology, but only 12-15 people get accepted into an MBA program. Now since there are different MBA programs (clinical psychology, developmental psychology, neuropsychology, educational psychology, organizational psychology ect.), lets estimate and say that out of those 300+ students, only 60 get accepted into an MBA program. However, since every year there's a more and more people who didn't get accepted that year, the number of people trying and waiting just grows more and more. So a lot of people get stuck in this limbo of applying and having their hopes and dreams shattered year after year.
    What does it take to get into an MBA program? well, you have the test that I mentioned, you should finish at the top of your class with honors, you better have volunteered doing both practical and research in the field, and for good measure - you have to go through a series of admission interviews and sometimes group workshops. This part is usually when people start to realize that there's a system design to thin the herd. The interviews themselves are stressful because you want to make a good impression, and they can be very personal, and emotionally taxing. Honestly, it feels like a right-of-passage type of situation handed down generations. Because the people doing the interviews are psychologists and staff-members, and they had to go through it as well, and it's all very elite and if you're not ready to have your shit thrown in your face, well then, clearly you're not willing to suffer enough for the craft.
    So you went through hell and back,a nd now you've made it into an MBA program! congratulations, get ready for the most intensive 2 years of your life, where you will be thrown elbow deep into practicing, while always doubting yourself, feeling vulnerable and wondering how you're supposed to do this job.
    So you've graduated, congratulations, you can registered as a licensed psychologist - BUT you need to specialize in your field for a minimum of 4 years (and a maximum of infinity depending on how well organized and task-oriented you are and how many children you've decided to bring into the world because you're already in your 30s because you started your BA at the earliest when you were 21-22 cause your country needed you to serve in the military for 2-3 years ... and yes that was mandatory). Well, specializing is great because you get guidance and you get to learn more and practice more and you're under supervision. But as Kati mentioned, you don't get paid top dollars. And usually you can only specialize at a part-time job, somewhere between 50-80%, goodluck living on that salary. Better have rich parents or a spouse with a high income job. Because this'll take anywhere from 4 years and I personally know people who are on their 9th year of their internship!
    But well before you get to start this internship training, you have to apply for a scholarship, because this training is expansive, and it's funded by the ministry of health - and organization with some serious under-funding in my country. Also, remember those top few who got accepted into the MBA program? well, now there's a 2nd bottle-neck, of waiting for a scholarship. So usually what that means is you can't practice in your field without waiting for a very long time, what's a long time? a year, or 2, or 3, or 5! and unless you have some strings to pull (hurrah for nepotism?) then you're going to be desperate and upset for a while now ... not to mention, they now changed the scholarship granting criteria and restructured the waiting list ... so things may have gotten better or worse for you, depending on where your position "in line" was before.
    Which is why I personally opted out of this madness of waiting in line for a scholarship that may or may never come (and involved more groveling and "proving myself" and jumping through hoops) and started an internship as an Educational Psychology, which is funded by the ministry of Education, an organisation that's also grossly under funded (because in my country, if you don't contribute directly to national security then you are grossly under funded .... ). But surprisingly they've managed to pull the funds needed, alongside local municipalities, to hire interns and psychologist to work for the city/region in supporting the education system (meaning consulting for schools, kindergartens, diagnosing patients, treating them, guiding parents and supporting the community).
    I'm proud of my profession, but even so, when you do public work, life is very different than in a private clinic. Sometimes you feel like an unwelcome guest, sometimes people get "ordered" into therapy when they'd really rather not be, and when you feel like your patients don't want to grow or even be there at all, things can get pretty disheartening sometimes. Luckily though you have a lot of peers working side by side with you, and you realize that this is actually pretty normal, and you eventually start to experience more success, but really - sometimes you end up wondering - why am I doing this? and is this the right thing for me? and since I've made it this far - is now really the time to rethink these choices? you're part of the elite, the "chosen" few (and every hurdle along the way was set there to make you feel exactly like that).
    I love my job, but really, sometimes I hate it ;)
    And that was my TL:DR rant about what it's like to become a therapist in my country, and this has all been about the process and training, and not even remotely about the job itself - just imagine ...
    So my advice to you kids, is figure out exactly what's needed to become a licensed and specialized psychologist, because a lot of these things were "surprises" along the way. Younger me didn't know these things, but could she have done anything differently? or made other choices? I am not sure she would have ...

    • @aquamarinedream8304
      @aquamarinedream8304 6 років тому +2

      have you worked with any psychiatric nurse practitioners? im interested in that line of work but not completely sure about their stress, work satisfaction, pros/cons, liability etc. It seems fun but I'm intimidated because of the schooling. I'm half way through my psych BA and have taken many science courses, but I still feel afraid to jump into a BSN/MSN in case I fail.

    • @Demilovatofan59202
      @Demilovatofan59202 5 років тому +7

      What country do you live in?

    • @jldishman
      @jldishman 5 років тому +4

      I know you posted this awhile ago but thank you so much for all the info. It was exactly what I needed to read.

    • @dakotarichard3796
      @dakotarichard3796 5 років тому +10

      I want to be a therapist when I’m older, but damn this kinda scares me

    • @Mozzarella-and-Tomato
      @Mozzarella-and-Tomato 5 років тому +3

      Do you have any more cons you wanna tell about? And which country do you live in?

  • @rebeccakelly7799
    @rebeccakelly7799 6 років тому

    Thank you so much for this Kati, this has definitely helped me decide if this career path is right for me! Xx

  • @amberchatreau7375
    @amberchatreau7375 8 років тому +1

    I agree with these completely! I'm an MFT intern (just under 1,000 hours left to go!) and while I work late and on weekends, I love that my workdays are never boring! I work at a crisis residential program in Orange County and I absolutely enjoy my work. The clients keep me busy and it's such a great learning experience for me as a new therapist.
    I love your videos-- keep them coming!

    • @Katimorton
      @Katimorton  8 років тому

      So glad you enjoyed it!! xoxo Go get it!! Under 1000 to go!! Home stretch! xox

  • @brittanybartram8292
    @brittanybartram8292 6 років тому

    This is really good. Thank you so much

  • @luciamp4856
    @luciamp4856 5 років тому

    You’ve put a really big smile on my face with this video! I’m constantly told I would regret the choice of studying psychology and so I’m very nervous when it comes to deciding which university I will go to, but you just said exactly what I was hoping to hear. I think I will be fine! Wish me luck on this journey :) grazie

  • @poohbear5104
    @poohbear5104 7 років тому +2

    Very helpful video! You're a very lovely person 💕

  • @djvangogh1767
    @djvangogh1767 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much you inspired me to be a therapist my friends say I should try it out because they always come to me for guidance. Great video👍👌

  • @kittymellow5864
    @kittymellow5864 6 років тому +50

    I'm thinking about becoming a therapist because I love helping people get through things and feel great. People always tell me their emotions and problems even if I barely know them. The issue is that I am not really good at interacting with people myself and I don't ever know what to say. I also don't think a lot of people would feel comfortable with me as their therapist because I can't see and my eyes look a little weird. A lot of people will think I won't understand them because they don't understand me. It seems difficult but I am going to try anyway.

    • @Dee_Dee794
      @Dee_Dee794 5 років тому +2

      Kitty Mellow we are in the same boat

    • @robertapage7474
      @robertapage7474 5 років тому +4

      Dont be discouraged tbh iff i had someone who was blind/had some kind of disability i would feel more comfortable knowing they have been through something in there life which they have got through and got to where they are as a therapist. Clearly iff u became a therapist it would show ur clients how strong minded u r. Sorry iff this didnt make sense. All my love and support from England xxxx

    • @Dee_Dee794
      @Dee_Dee794 5 років тому +2

      Bobbi DIYs it made sense but I don’t think they were talking about blind people. I think they were talking about people in general.

    • @robertapage7474
      @robertapage7474 5 років тому

      deanna todd sims i meant that it would show how strong minded she was as a blind therapist sorry i didnt make that clear xxx

    • @zinoneus3733
      @zinoneus3733 5 років тому +1

      You might be a INFJ like me. Check it out right here on youtube to see if this is you and learn your strengths and weaknesses.
      Here are a few things to help you see if your an infj.
      If you dont like small talk.
      You can feel and absorb others emotions.
      Your very back and forth person
      The famous infj door slam.(look it up)
      Always thinking constantly.
      Quick mood changes.
      That's all ill list for now from what I've been learning about myself. Hope you find this helpful!

  • @kajolkainth9405
    @kajolkainth9405 6 років тому

    Thank you so much for this video... This is really going to help me to decide about my career .

  • @j_chua
    @j_chua 6 років тому

    This is helpful. Thank you!

  • @AntonioACK
    @AntonioACK 2 роки тому

    Awesome video keep up the great work 👍

  • @vex3029
    @vex3029 3 роки тому

    Thank you. This was very helpful as I too am struggling to find what I want to do with my career path. Having suffered from misdiagnosis and bad docs, I figured that my experience may give me an edge to help others really help themselves.

  • @reconditionyourselffitness273
    @reconditionyourselffitness273 4 роки тому +1

    Amazing content, Kati!

  • @collegebro85
    @collegebro85 6 років тому +12

    I remember making $6.25 an hour with a bachelor's degree here in Texas...$24-$225 an hour is the dream as an LPC!!

  • @ZaynBrando
    @ZaynBrando 6 років тому +1

    God damn, you're so positive and so empathetic and genuine, I just can't stop watching your videos!

  • @katerinag9512
    @katerinag9512 6 років тому +5

    LMFTA here . I think it depends on the area you live . I’m from WA state , our salary is high here! My hours are 9-5, you can choose your own . Self-care, well I have weekends off and travel . The job is very fulfilling overall :)

  • @eldonmoler9789
    @eldonmoler9789 3 роки тому

    This is a great video and very informational! Thank you :)

  • @mindofameathead6593
    @mindofameathead6593 5 років тому +5

    I start grad school next year, just finished my bachelors of psychology and I hope one day to be a LMHC 😳 great video and advice, thanks!

  • @maypickles2396
    @maypickles2396 6 років тому +1

    I hope to have your passion, you make me so enthusiastic on working within mental health!

  • @kyliedroid
    @kyliedroid 8 років тому +1

    I'm starting college in the fall for psychology and this just made me even more excited! You're definitely part of the inspiration for that, it's so helpful seeing someone young and quirky being successful and taken seriously. Thank you for everything you do.

    • @arcadia9424
      @arcadia9424 2 роки тому +1

      How did your courses go? :)

  • @kayleerawls3734
    @kayleerawls3734 6 років тому

    I’ve recently decided to pursue a career in therapy. I’m so excited!! 😊💗

  • @chelsea8240
    @chelsea8240 8 років тому +2

    Thankyou for this video!!❤️

    • @Katimorton
      @Katimorton  8 років тому

      You are so welcome! I am glad you liked it!! xoxo

  • @Luna-ft8yh
    @Luna-ft8yh 4 роки тому +1

    I love this. Thank you. It's my dream job. For all the reasons you said. Even the cons. I don't mind the money. It's enough. It's more than I have. And I love seeing others progress and being the help they need. I wish I'd get my shit together to finally make it and become my own biggest project in pursuing that career although I have self doubts

  • @rachelren9824
    @rachelren9824 4 роки тому +9

    I would love to be a therapist. I’m afraid I’m too emotional. What if it’s a trigger for me? If someone was crying to me, I don’t think I would be able to hold in my tears. But imagine helping someone and making their life better.... so. conflicted.
    Any advice?

  • @marias8244
    @marias8244 6 років тому

    Really appreciated this video. I'm currently in an admin/program role and cannot WAIT to be doing something more meaningful to me and to others. I have a Master's degree already, but it didn't open up many doors and isn't "worth" much to employers, so I'm still earning minimum wage or less than. My joy has been coming from projects outside of work where I've been able to coach others, consult, and educate - basically anything remotely connected to the field of counseling. I'm going back to school in January to get my MA in CMHC - I'm super nervous about being in grad school again, about the loans (eek!), and the fact this will be my third career change after going from teacher, to programming/admin, to counseling, but I know that counseling and serving others in that capacity is what truly brings me joy. No regrets!

  • @75sadiegirl
    @75sadiegirl 8 років тому +1

    Great video Kati. I love my job as well. I work for the Fire Prevention & Investigation Bureau for Fire Dept.

  • @milamaus6673
    @milamaus6673 8 років тому +1

    You just gave me hope that one day I will reach my goals and become a therapist :) thank you

  • @cierarenee5448
    @cierarenee5448 8 років тому +5

    you're my inspiration!!! God bless you and keep doing amazing work!

  • @DrPreetiSahu
    @DrPreetiSahu 5 років тому +1

    Very helpful video Kati

  • @user-gy7bg1rv6o
    @user-gy7bg1rv6o 6 років тому

    Love you Kati!

  • @Eradifyerao
    @Eradifyerao 4 роки тому

    This is super helpful!

  • @c.wander555
    @c.wander555 3 роки тому

    Your words resonated so much with me that it kinda feels like a future version of myself is talking to me. I moved out of home after finishing highschool and didn't pursue a career as my life was such chaos, I could barely focus on daily tasks. I worked various boring, repetitive jobs till now... Now almost hitting my 30's, I can say It took 12 years to find the peace I needed to finally find something I'm really passionate about and see myself working on for the rest of my life. Regardless, it was worth the wait.

  • @wolfferoni
    @wolfferoni 8 років тому

    I'm in my second year at uni right now doing something I don't like and for the longest time I've wanted to become a therapist which eventually narrowed down to social work when I left high school, however my parents did not allow me to as a result of the pay as you mentioned but also the dangers that I could face as a social worker or therapist. I feel like people aren't educated enough about mental health and a lot of people still have the idea of an out of control, violent, "crazy" person when they imagine someone with a mental illness.
    Thank you, Katie, for educating us one video at a time :)

  • @pastorasarabetancourt-mart737
    @pastorasarabetancourt-mart737 4 роки тому

    Thank you

  • @texas-red538
    @texas-red538 2 роки тому

    Hey dorks are awesome!!! Great vid! 😊

  • @foegetful
    @foegetful 8 років тому

    I really enjoy your videos Kati

  • @lauras.1758
    @lauras.1758 6 років тому

    I'm a junior in high school and I'm looking into being an art therapist! I really want to help people and I love art so if I can help people with art that would be my dream job! Videos like yours just inspire me :) thank you for putting out the perspective of a therapist online. It's so useful :D

  • @CathyAndrew
    @CathyAndrew 8 років тому +1

    thank you kati!! I found this really helpful as I would love to work as a therapist in the future!!

  • @chrisgeorgallis7746
    @chrisgeorgallis7746 3 роки тому +1

    To be of service is important.🙏

  • @joshnicholls4668
    @joshnicholls4668 3 роки тому

    Before I came to this video I was struggling and had no idea what I wanted to do with what remains of my life.
    Thanks to you, now I know 🙏 😊

  • @daniellemilton8257
    @daniellemilton8257 5 років тому

    this video is so helpful 😊.

  • @strongbad142
    @strongbad142 7 років тому

    Thank you. With my life all I wanted to do is to help others.

  • @ThePureLegend95
    @ThePureLegend95 7 років тому

    This was so good!

  • @KristenCorpse
    @KristenCorpse 8 років тому +94

    Has Kati ever made a video about being a internet personality and putting herself "out there" and her clients feelings on it? (Ex: Googling your therapist's name to see that they have an online following and make "therapy" videos.) I'm halfway through my MSW now and I always wonder about this.

    • @GeorginaGaray5
      @GeorginaGaray5 8 років тому +4

      I definitely wonder this also! Since, clients can and probably will look us up (I'm an MFT intern).
      good look on your program!

    • @keyajames
      @keyajames 8 років тому +2

      +Gina GL I use a name that Is completely different from my real in on YT and all social media for this purpose.

  • @carolyncz33
    @carolyncz33 4 роки тому +23

    Here I am barely making 30k a year: HELL YEAH 55K A YEAR

  • @kaseyspohn8302
    @kaseyspohn8302 7 років тому

    I LOVE the Office Space reference!

  • @meganiswatchingthis
    @meganiswatchingthis 8 років тому

    Hey, Kati!! I love your channel! This video really helped me - I'm an undergrad (junior) pursuing a B.S. in Psychology and a B.A. in Sociology. I really want to become a therapist but I have no idea where to start. I was wondering if you could make a video on some different kinds of fields of therapy? That would be super helpful. Thank you so much for making this channel!!

  • @anacasado4938
    @anacasado4938 8 років тому

    hi kati i really admire and appreciate your hard work and content. could you please make a video about nocturnal panic attacks? i suffer from bpd and have been experiencing really extreme panic attacks when i sleep. thanks a lot! love you from spain ❤

  • @DrummerGrrrl
    @DrummerGrrrl 5 років тому

    You mentioned "Office Space"! I loooooved that movie!

  • @loveluz1994
    @loveluz1994 Місяць тому

    So far, the pros outweigh the cons, so I am all in. :D Thank you for this video!