A day in the life of a High Intensity CBT Therapist
Sophie shares details of her role as a High-Intensity CBT Therapist working in the community and the Tameside Macmillan Unit
What does Talking Therapies Tameside and GLossop do?
Talking Therapies offers therapeutic support to those struggling with symptoms of depression or anxiety. We understand that individuals living with cancer can experience heightened levels of worry and uncertainty. This is why we work alongside Macmillan to support those who may want to improve their mood and find ways to look after their well-being during an understandably difficult time.
Why did you decide to pursue this career?
I love working in a person-centred role and always wanted to support those who were struggling with their mental health. I've been involved in this field in some way or another since volunteering at 14, so becoming a therapist felt like a natural step. I found that I was particularly interested in working with those who were struggling with juggling their well-being and physical health conditions. I began working at the Tameside Macmillan unit in 2018 and find it an incredibly rewarding role.
What does your job involve?
The majority of my work centres around offering high-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy to anyone who is struggling with their mental health. I'm in clinic most days, and I spend my Wednesdays at the Macmillan unit. I'm the long-term health conditions champion, which means I work with different health teams to find ways of supporting those with physical health conditions. I supervise other practitioners with clinical questions,s and I'm currently running two research projects about the effectiveness of therapy for individuals with cancer.
What does a typical day look like for you?
I usually split my time between seeing clients, liaising with health professionals and clinical supervision. I have a day a week that I spend on running two research projects. Every day can be different, so it's a bit of a juggle! 🙂
What is the hardest part of your job?
It's never easy to see someone experiencing distress or worry. However I always think about where they could be at the end of therapy, and it helps give a sense of direction for the individual. They usually come away from therapy in a much better place than when they first began. I also feel I am well supported by my clinical supervisors and managers, which always helps.
What do you enjoy most (or is the most rewarding aspect) about your work and/or your work with people affected by cancer?
I feel very privileged to be in a career that I can say I love wholeheartedly. I love working with clients as they are wonderful people who I get to know very well. I get great satisfaction to see clients reach their goals in therapy and feeling much more positive. I have an amazing team I work alongside and have made many friends along the way.
What advice would you give to somebody considering this role as a career?
I would recommend this career to anyone who is thinking of becoming a therapist. Whilst it can be a demanding role, it is a brilliant one!
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